The last full-length Butthole Surfers album of the 1980s, Hairway to Steven, represents a pivotal moment in the band's career, bridging their psychedelic-noise origins with the more accessible sounds that would follow. While the album retains the band's signature use of unconventional instrumentation, extensive tape editing, and sound modulation, it distinguishes itself from earlier releases by incorporating acoustic guitar alongside electric guitar, bass, and dual drummers. This album also marks drummer Teresa Nervosa's final studio album with the band.

Hairway to Steven was recorded in a single studio over a relatively short period of time. According to bassist Jeff Pinkus, many of the tracks had been performed live by the band for years before being recorded for this album. In contrast to their previous releases, which were often recorded piecemeal over several months in various studios with extensive in-studio development, this album was created more cohesively.

2024 reissue/remaster released via Matador Records. 

Tracklist: 

Side A

Side B