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Band Timeline

1983

Formation of Melvins and Early Punk Covers

Melvins formed in early 1983 in Montesano, Washington, by Buzz Osborne, Matt Lukin, and Mike Dillard. They began by playing covers of Jimi Hendrix and The Who, quickly developing a fast hardcore punk style. Named after a disliked local supervisor named Melvin, the band's initially playful yet rebellious identity set the stage for their later influential role in heavy music.
1984-1987

Lineup Changes and Early Releases Mark Growth

In 1984, drummer Mike Dillard left and was replaced by Dale Crover. The band moved rehearsals to Crover's parents' home in Aberdeen and slowed their music style, pioneering a heavier sound soon known as sludge metal and grunge. Their first recordings appeared on the Deep Six compilation in 1985. The Six Songs EP was released in 1986, recorded live to two-track tape, showing their raw, heavy approach. In 1987, they released their debut full-length album, Gluey Porch Treatments, further establishing their experimental and heavy sound that diverged from punk speeds.
1988-1992

Signing with Boner Records and Increasing International Exposure

Crover briefly played drums with Nirvana in 1988, forming early connections between Melvins and the Seattle grunge scene. Osborne and Crover relocated to San Francisco while Lukin formed Mudhoney. Lori 'Lorax' Black replaced Lukin on bass. The band released Ozma in 1989, followed by the slower, drone-influenced Bullhead in 1990. A European tour in 1991 led to the release of a live album. Bassist switches occurred with Lorax leaving and Joe Preston joining, who featured on several releases. Their creative approach included releasing three solo EPs imitating a KISS album concept in 1992 along with the album Lysol (renamed Melvins due to trademark issues).
1993-1997

Atlantic Records Era and Broader Recognition

The success of Nirvana's Nevermind led to increased attention on Melvins, who signed with Atlantic Records. Their 1993 major label debut, Houdini, reached number 29 on the Billboard Heatseekers chart, introducing their heavy, experimental sound to a wider audience. Mark Deutrom replaced Lorax on bass around this time, stabilizing the lineup. This period marked increased visibility and touring, solidifying the Melvins' place as pioneers of sludge metal and grunge with influence extending in the alternative rock scene.
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Story of Melvins

The Melvins: A Sonic Juggernaut from the Pacific Northwest

The Melvins, sometimes known simply as "The Melvins," are a legendary American rock band, formed in 1983 in the small town of Montesano, Washington. Their groundbreaking early work laid the foundation for both the grunge and sludge metal scenes, influencing countless bands that followed.

This trio, often augmented by additional musicians, typically features vocalist and guitarist Buzz Osborne and drummer Dale Crover as the core unit. Since 1984, these two have been the band's constant members, a testament to their enduring creative partnership. The Melvins have also experimented with a quartet formation, incorporating either two drummers or two bassists to amplify their already colossal sound.

The Early Years (1983-1987):

The band's origins can be traced back to the early 1980s, when Buzz Osborne, Matt Lukin, and Mike Dillard, all classmates at Montesano Junior/Senior High School, decided to form a band. They initially named themselves after a disliked supervisor at a local Thriftway store, where Osborne worked. The name "Melvin" felt aptly ridiculous, fitting their raw and uncompromising musical vision.

The band's early sound was a blend of Jimi Hendrix and The Who covers, infused with the ferocious energy of fast hardcore punk. However, Dillard's departure in 1984 led to the arrival of Dale Crover, a local drummer who would become an integral part of the Melvins' sonic identity. The band's rehearsals moved to a back room in Crover's parents' Aberdeen home, where they began to forge their own unique and powerful sound.

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