Lyrics:

The Song:

"Put It In Neutral" is a fairly obscure old song Beck gave to Gus Hudson, who included it on a small collection of songs he called A Hot Wild Drive in the City (all the songs are about cars). Beck knew Hudson well: some Hudson-produced tracks are also included on Stereopathetic Soulmanure. Beck also appears on another song on the album, singing back-up on his friend Steve's song "American Car." The album was initially released back in 1992 or 1993, but was re-released in 2000.

Beck seems to pilfered from "Put It In Neutral" over the years, which probably indicates how long ago it was written. "Loser" of course has the line "Kill the headlights and put it in neutral." "Loser" was recorded in 1992, and my guess is this came from before that. Beck's voice sounds young, and so do the lyrics.

Beck also used images of test-tubes and diesels much later in "Novacane" on Odelay. Demolition derbies go back to his old Banjo Story song, "Detonate."

This just goes to show the extent Beck sticks with images; or maybe how images stick with him. I've always enjoyed this song, as a youthful piece of energy. Beck has a handful of songs from back then that build on this weary punk folk vibe, like "Asskizz Powergrudge" and the like.