Linkous initially gained notice with Sparklehorse’s first record Vivadixiesubmarinetransmissionplot in 1995, which yielded a modest alternative hit in “Someday I Will Treat You Good”. And while that album achieved much critical acclaim, it was not until unfortunate events the following year in London that Linkous’ profile really rose. While touring Europe with Radiohead, Linkous overdosed on an alleged mix of anti-depressants, heroin, alcohol, and valium. In the wake, Linkous suffered a heart attack, was pronounced dead for two minutes, and was confined to a wheelchair for six months after losing the use of his legs.
     Drawing from that harrowing experience in London and subsequent convalescence, Linkous went on to produce Good Morning Spider, which marked the pinnacle of his career. Released in 1998, the record mixed sunny pop melodies with sinister lyrics and a flat-out weird set of sounds that would show themselves at unexpected times. For example, on “Sunshine”, what seemed like a happy lullaby gives way to whooshing noises befitting a hospital room and lyrics like “I lay down on the grass and let the insects do their thing”; the resulting effect reminds the listener that no matter how healthy and cheerful matters might seem, something shadowy, dark, and dangerous may always be afoot.