 In January 1994 Powderfinger performed on the Big Day Out Tour ( see 1994 line @-@ up ) . On 18 July that year they released their debut studio album , Parables for Wooden Ears under Polydor . According to Australian rock music historian , Ian McFarlane , it " featured complex , meticulously crafted rock but was somewhat ponderous and sombre , which did little to fulfil the promise displayed on Transfusion " . The album was produced by Tony Cohen ( Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds , The Cruel Sea ) , which Fanning later described as the band 's " dark dark days " , received limited radio coverage . Supporting the album 's release , the band toured heavily appearing at the Livid and Homebake music festivals . Powderfinger supported United States visitors Pantera on that group 's Driven Downunder Tour ' 94 . Another Australian support act on the tour was Newcastle @-@ formed band , Silverchair . Three singles were released from Powderfinger 's debut album – " Tail " , " Grave Concern " and " Save Your Skin " – but none appeared on the ARIA Singles Chart Top 50 . Following the album 's release , and lukewarm reception , in April 1995 the band recorded at Melbourne 's Metropolis Studio with Lachlan " Magoo " Goold ( Regurgitator ) and in July released a five @-@ track EP , Mr Kneebone . 
