In a candid conversation with AMFM Magazine’s Paul Salfen, Local H guitarist and vocalist Scott Lucas looks back on the band’s groundbreaking 1996 album as it celebrates three decades with a new, band-approved reissue—while proving the duo’s raw energy still powers one of rock’s most resilient careers.
The numbers don’t lie. As Good As Dead dropped in 1996 and delivered undeniable anthems like “Bound For The Floor,” “Eddie Vedder,” and “Hi-Fiving MF.” Thirty years later, the record still resonates with both longtime fans and a new generation discovering the Midwestern power duo’s no-frills, high-impact sound. Lucas, never one to dwell on nostalgia, admits the milestone caught even him off guard.
“It just blinked, and here we are,” he laughs during the call. “As long as you don’t die, you’re going to be around to see stuff like that.”
The reissue, out this summer via G&P Records, isn’t just a cash-grab anniversary package. Lucas and company took control to ensure fans—old and new—get the definitive version. A fresh remaster, double vinyl pressed at 45rpm, updated artwork, and exclusive extras make it the ultimate collector’s edition. The goal was simple: keep the record in print at fair prices and give new listeners a high-quality entry point.
“We just wanted to make sure that if you’re really into the band, you’ll love this,” Lucas explains. “We cut all the stuff you would want… We had a lot of material and the songs really do hold up. They just keep coming one after the other.”
That confidence stems from the album’s chaotic creation. Local H entered the studio with only six songs ready but walked out with a full arsenal of tracks that still feel vital today. Lucas remains impressed by how cohesive it sounds despite the rushed timeline.
Advice for the Next Generation: “Don’t Save Anything for the Swim Back”
Beyond the music, the interview dives into Lucas’s no-compromise philosophy. When asked what he’d tell young artists chasing their dreams, he references the film Gattaca and delivers a line that doubles as Local H’s unofficial motto:
“Don’t save anything for the swim back. If you really want to do it, make sure you’ve made up your mind and don’t doubt yourself.”
He rejects the safety-net mentality of backup plans, emphasizing authenticity over trends. That same mindset drives the band’s live approach. Setlists change nightly, often decided on the fly at the venue.
“We tried playing the same set every night… but we just got bored after a few days,” Lucas admits. “I like to be surprised when I go see a show. It makes it interesting for us, and when we’re in the moment, the crowd is in the moment.”
Touring Strong in 2026
On the heels of tours with Everclear and Filter, Local H hits the road with Toadies this spring and summer. Dallas fans get a prime hometown-adjacent stop on May 2 at Longhorn Backyard Amphitheater, with Tony (the other half of the duo) returning to familiar territory.
Lucas is looking forward to it: “I like all the places we play in Texas.” Between shows, expect Tex-Mex stops and a visit to Good Records in Dallas—provided he can tear himself away from the stage.
New Music on the Horizon
While celebrating the past, Lucas confirms the band isn’t done creating. “It’s time. At least one more,” he says of a new record. After relentless touring, he plans to hunker down and focus—proof that Local H still operates on its own terms.
Pre-Order: Local H – As Good As Dead 30th Anniversary Edition The reissue arrives Summer 2026 via G&P Records. Full details and pre-order available now.
Local H 2026 Tour Dates (with Toadies and more): 4/30/26 – Abilene, TX – Potosi Live 5/1/26 – Christoval, TX – Cooper’s Live 5/2/26 – Dallas, TX – Longhorn Backyard Amphitheater …and dozens more through mid-June, including Webster Hall (NYC), The Vic Theatre (Chicago), and The Belasco (LA). Tickets on sale now.
