The Lemonheads: From Boston Basements to Chart-Topping Hits

The Lemonheads, a quintessential American alternative rock band, emerged from the vibrant Boston music scene in 1986. Founded by Evan Dando, Ben Deily, and Jesse Peretz, the band has undergone numerous line-up changes throughout its history, with Dando remaining the only constant member.

The band's early days were marked by a raw, punk-influenced sound, building a following in the independent and college rock circuits of the late 1980s. Their breakthrough came in 1992 with the release of "It's a Shame About Ray," a major label album produced by the Robb Brothers (Bruce, Dee, and Joe). This record, with its infectious melodies and Dando's introspective lyrics, propelled the Lemonheads into the mainstream.

The band's popularity soared even further with their iconic cover of Simon & Garfunkel's "Mrs. Robinson," which became one of their biggest hits.

After a successful run, the Lemonheads went on hiatus in 1997. However, they returned in 2005 with a new lineup, releasing the self-titled album "The Lemonheads" the following year. The band's latest album, "Varshons 2," dropped in February 2019.

Over the years, the Lemonheads have collaborated with a diverse roster of musicians, including John Strohm (Blake Babies), Doug Trachten, Corey Loog Brennan, Byron Hoagland (Folks on Fire), Ben Daughtrey (Squirrel Bait), Juliana Hatfield (Blake Babies), Nic Dalton (Godstar, Sneeze, the Plunderers), David Ryan (Fuzzy), Patrick "Murph" Murphy (Dinosaur Jr.), George Berz (Dinosaur Jr., Gobblehoof), Josh Lattanzi, Bill Gibson (The Eastern Dark), Mark 'Budola' Newman, Kenny Lyon, Vess Ruhtenberg, Devon Ashley, Karl Alvarez, Bill Stevenson (Descendents), P. David Hazel, Farley Glavin, and many more.

Early Years (1986-1991)

The Lemonheads' story began in the hallways of the Commonwealth School in Boston, where Evan Dando, Ben Deily, and Jesse Peretz formed the band as teenagers. Initially called "The Whelps," the name was inspired by a brand of candy that Dando described as "sweet on the inside and sour on the outside," a fitting metaphor for their music. The band's early output included the self-released 7-inch EP "Laughing All the Way to the Cleaners."

The Offspring: California Punk Royalty

The Offspring, hailing from the punk rock hotbed of Garden Grove, California, burst onto the scene in 1984. Originally known as Manic Subsidal, the band has always been a force to be reckoned with, led by the iconic duo of vocalist/rhythm guitarist Bryan "Dexter" Holland and lead guitarist Kevin "Noodles" Wasserman. Their current lineup also features bassist Todd Morse, multi-instrumentalist Jonah Nimoy, and drummer Brandon Pertzborn.

The Offspring, alongside fellow California punk pioneers like Green Day, NOFX, Bad Religion, Rancid, Pennywise, and Blink-182, spearheaded the punk rock revival of the 1990s, bringing the raw energy of the genre back into the mainstream. Over their four decades of rocking, The Offspring has amassed an impressive catalog of 10 studio albums and sold over 40 million records, cementing their status as one of punk's biggest selling acts.

The band has seen its fair share of lineup changes over the years. Ron Welty, who replaced original drummer James Lilja in 1987, reigned supreme on the drums for an impressive 16 years before being replaced by Adam "Atom" Willard in 2003. Willard's four-year tenure was followed by Pete Parada, who sadly departed in 2021 after refusing to get vaccinated against COVID-19. The current drummer, Pertzborn, joined the band in 2023.

The bass position has also seen its fair share of changes. Original bassist Gregory "Greg K" Kriesel was a founding member, but his tenure ended in 2018, leaving Holland as the sole original member. Morse, who had been the band's touring guitarist since 2009, stepped in as the new bassist. His previous touring role was filled by Nimoy, who became an official member in 2023, solidifying the band's current lineup.

Through all these lineup changes, one thing has remained constant: The Offspring's commitment to delivering high-energy punk rock that continues to resonate with fans worldwide.

The Plot in You, a post-hardcore powerhouse hailing from Hancock County, Ohio, exploded onto the scene in 2010. Initially a side project for Landon Tewers, formerly of Before Their Eyes, the band solidified its lineup with guitarist Josh Childress, bassist Ethan Yoder, and drummer Michael Cooper.

Their explosive journey began with the raw and controversial 2010 EP, Wife Beater, released under InVogue Records – the same label as Tewers' previous band. This release proved pivotal, prompting Tewers to leave Before Their Eyes and fully commit to The Plot in You. The band quickly followed up with their debut full-length, First Born (2011), solidifying their intense, emotional sound. Could You Watch Your Children Burn (2013) further cemented their position in the post-hardcore landscape.

The band's trajectory shifted with their signing to StaySick Recordings in 2015, resulting in the release of Happiness in Self Destruction. However, after a successful run, they parted ways with StaySick in 2017, quickly signing with Fearless Records and unleashing Dispose in February 2018. Their fifth studio album, Swan Song, arrived in September 2021, marking another significant chapter in their impactful career. The Plot in You's discography also includes three EPs, showcasing their consistent evolution and unwavering dedication to their emotionally charged, heavy sound. The band's original name, "Vessels," reflects their early evolution into the force they are today.

The Police: A Rock Revolution

The Police, a legendary English rock band, emerged from the vibrant music scene of London in 1977. Within a short time, their lineup solidified with the iconic trio of Sting (the enigmatic vocalist, bassist, and primary songwriter), Andy Summers (the virtuoso guitarist), and Stewart Copeland (the dynamic drummer and percussionist). This formidable lineup remained steadfast throughout the band's illustrious career.

The Police quickly captured the hearts of music lovers worldwide in the late 1970s and early to mid-1980s. They rose to prominence amidst the British new wave movement, blending elements of punk, reggae, and jazz into their signature rock sound.

Their debut album, "Outlandos d'Amour" (1978), soared to the UK's top 6, fueled by the infectious singles "Roxanne" and "Can't Stand Losing You." Their sophomore effort, "Reggatta de Blanc" (1979), marked a pivotal moment in their career, achieving a coveted No. 1 spot in both the UK and Australia. It spawned the chart-topping hits "Message in a Bottle" and "Walking on the Moon," catapulting the band to international stardom.

The Police continued their winning streak with "Zenyatta Mondatta" (1980) and "Ghost in the Machine" (1981). These albums yielded further critical acclaim and commercial success, including the UK number-one singles "Don't Stand So Close to Me" and "Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic," which also resonated with audiences globally. "Zenyatta Mondatta" proved to be a monumental breakthrough in the US, reaching number five on the Billboard 200.

Their final studio album, "Synchronicity" (1983), topped the charts in the UK and US, cementing their legacy as one of the most influential rock bands of all time.

The Pretenders, a British-American rock band, burst onto the scene in March 1978. The original lineup, a powerhouse of talent, featured Chrissie Hynde (the bands founder, lead vocalist, rhythm guitarist, and primary songwriter), James Honeyman-Scott (lead guitar, backing vocals, keyboards), Pete Farndon (bass guitar, backing vocals), and Martin Chambers (drums, backing vocals, percussion). Tragically, the deaths of Honeyman-Scott in 1982 and Farndon in 1983 led to significant personnel changes, with Hynde remaining the sole constant member throughout the bands history.

Their iconic sound propelled hits like "Kid," "Brass in Pocket," "Talk of the Town," "Message of Love," "My City Was Gone," "Back on the Chain Gang," "Middle of the Road," "2000 Miles," "Dont Get Me Wrong," "My Baby," and "Ill Stand by You," cementing their place in rock history. This enduring legacy culminated in their induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2005.

History & Background:

Chrissie Hynde, hailing from Akron, Ohio, relocated to London in 1973. She immersed herself in the vibrant music scene, working for the NME and at Malcolm McLaren and Vivienne Westwood`s clothing store. Her involvement with proto-punk acts like the Sex Pistols, the Clash, and the Damned, alongside stints in short-lived bands such as Masters of the Backside and the Moors Murderers, provided invaluable experience. However, she consistently sought a more equitable and central role in her musical collaborations, a desire that ultimately fueled the creation of The Pretenders.

Hyndes initial, more provocative project, initially titled (Mike Hunts) Dishonorable Discharge, included former London SS and future Damned members, even featuring Mick Jones and Sid Vicious (whom Hynde taught guitar). Despite this impressive roster, the band failed to secure management backing from either Malcolm McLaren or Bernie Rhodes, even as both actively recruited members from Hynde`s various projects.

The Pretenders officially formed in 1978 after Dave Hill at Anchor Records heard demos of Hyndes songwriting. He facilitated rehearsals at a Denmark Street studio in London, where a three-piece featuring Hynde, bassist Mal Hart (who had previously played with Hynde and Steve Strange in the Moors Murderers), and Motörheads Phil Taylor on drums performed a set of Hyndes original material, laying the foundation for the legendary bands rise.

The Pretty Reckless: A Rock Force to Be Reckoned With

The Pretty Reckless, a hard-hitting rock band from the heart of New York City, burst onto the scene in 2009, bringing a raw and energetic sound. Fronted by the captivating Taylor Momsen (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), the band is rounded out by the talents of Ben Phillips (lead guitar, backing vocals), Mark Damon (bass), and Jamie Perkins (drums).

Their debut album, Light Me Up (2010), ignited the rock world with its edgy anthems. The album's breakout single, "Make Me Wanna Die," solidified their presence and established them as a force to be reckoned with. They followed up with the Hit Me Like a Man EP (2012), showcasing their continued evolution and raw power.

The Pretty Reckless hit their stride with their sophomore album, Going to Hell (2014). The album's anthems, "Heaven Knows" and "Messed Up World," reigned supreme on both the US and UK rock charts, solidifying their international appeal.

In 2016, Who You Selling For continued their reign, featuring the hit single "Take Me Down," which marked their fourth number one on the US rock charts. The band's relentless drive and talent were on full display in their fourth studio album, Death by Rock and Roll, released in 2021. With its lead single, "Death by Rock and Roll," reaching the top of the Mainstream Rock chart, the Pretty Reckless made history as the first female-fronted band to boast seven number one singles.

The Pretty Reckless continue to push boundaries and dominate the rock scene with their fearless attitude and electrifying performances. Their music speaks to a generation yearning for authenticity, raw energy, and a touch of rebellion, proving that The Pretty Reckless are not just a band, but a force to be reckoned with.

The Smashing Pumpkins: A Legacy of Alternative Rock

The Smashing Pumpkins, often shortened to simply "Pumpkins," are an American alternative rock powerhouse hailing from Chicago. Formed in 1988 by the enigmatic Billy Corgan (frontman and guitarist), D'arcy Wretzky (bassist), James Iha (guitarist), and Jimmy Chamberlin (drummer), the band has become synonymous with the 90s alt-rock scene. Despite numerous lineup changes since their 2006 reunion, Corgan remains the band's driving force, acting as primary songwriter and the only constant member since its inception. The current lineup features Corgan, Chamberlin, and Iha, showcasing a return to the band's classic roots.

The Pumpkins' sound is a dynamic blend of various rock subgenres, making them a force to be reckoned with. Their music incorporates elements of gothic rock, heavy metal, grunge, psychedelic rock, progressive rock, shoegaze, dream pop, and electronica, resulting in a densely layered and diverse sonic landscape that has evolved throughout their career.

Their debut album, Gish (1991), garnered underground acclaim, foreshadowing their explosive rise. The band truly cemented their status with their sophomore effort, Siamese Dream (1993), released amidst the burgeoning alternative rock wave. Despite a tumultuous recording process, the album became a critical darling, solidifying its place as one of the genre's defining works.

The Pumpkins continued to conquer the charts with their third album, Mellon Collie and the Infinite Sadness (1995). This double album debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and achieved Diamond certification from the RIAA, a testament to its colossal success. Critical acclaim showered the album, further solidifying the band's dominance.

Following the release of Adore (1998), the band embarked on a two-part project in 2000, Machina and Machina II, before ultimately disbanding due to internal conflicts, drug abuse, and waning commercial success by the late 90s.

The Smashing Pumpkins left an undeniable mark on the world of alternative rock, influencing countless artists and leaving behind a legacy of iconic albums and unforgettable songs that continue to resonate with fans worldwide.

Hailing from Manchester and formed in 1982, The Smiths exploded onto the British music scene as a cornerstone of the 80s indie rock revolution. The iconic lineup featured Morrissey`s instantly recognizable vocals, the jangly guitar work of Johnny Marr, Andy Rourke on bass, and Mike Joyce on drums. The songwriting partnership of Morrissey and Marr proved undeniably potent.

Signed to Rough Trade Records in 1983, their self-titled debut album dropped in 1984. Rejecting the prevailing synth-pop soundscape, The Smiths carved a niche with their raw, guitar-driven sound, blending 60s rock sensibilities with post-punk edge. Their impact was undeniable: multiple singles cracked the UK top 20, and all their studio albums hit the UK top 5, including the number one album Meat Is Murder (1985). International success followed with The Queen Is Dead (1986) and Strangeways, Here We Come (1987), both charting in the European top 20. The band briefly expanded to a five-piece in 1986 with the addition of guitarist Craig Gannon.

However, internal conflicts ultimately led to the band`s acrimonious split in 1987, further complicated by public disputes over royalties. The members have steadfastly maintained their refusal to reunite, rejecting all offers to do so, cementing their legacy as one of the most influential and enduring bands of their era, and a definitive voice of 80s British independent music.

The Spill Canvas, hailing from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, exploded onto the alternative rock scene, carving a niche with their emo-tinged anthems. Their signature sound, a potent blend of aggressive acoustic rock and subtle symphonic elements, propelled hits like "All Over You," "All Hail the Heartbreaker," and "Polygraph, Right Now!" to widespread acclaim. They also cemented their place in emo history with classics such as "Our Song," "The Tide," and "This Is for Keeps."

From Solo Project to Band Phenomenon:

The band's journey began with Nick Thomas, the frontman and guitarist, who picked up the guitar at age 11 in his Sioux Falls hometown. A self-released punk and acoustic CD, The Blur of Motions, in 2000, showcased his early talent. After forming The Spill Canvas in 2001 with vocalist Becca Flinn, bassist Alan Burkhard, and violinist Hannah Peskey, the band briefly experimented with a fuller, more symphonic sound. However, this lineup proved short-lived, with the original members departing within a year. Undeterred, Thomas kept the Spill Canvas name alive as a solo project, moonlighting as a guitarist and backing vocalist for Nodes of Ranvier until 2003. He then dedicated himself fully to The Spill Canvas, releasing the five-song Concept EP in May 2003, produced at Cathouse Studios in Sioux Falls. This marked the beginning of the band's ascent to prominence.

Hailing from Orem, Utah, The Used exploded onto the rock scene in 2000. The original lineup – vocalist Bert McCracken, bassist Jeph Howard, drummer Dan Whitesides, and guitarist Joey Bradford – quickly gained traction, catapulting to fame with their self-titled debut album in June 2002. This explosive release was followed by a string of critically acclaimed albums: In Love and Death (September 2004), Lies for the Liars (May 2007), and the B-sides compilation Shallow Believer EP (February 2008). Their powerful sound continued to evolve with Artwork (August 2009) and Vulnerable (March 2012), showcasing their dynamic range. The band further solidified their legacy with the The Ocean of the Sky EP (July 2013) and their sixth studio album, Imaginary Enemy (April 2014). While the current lineup boasts a consistent core, former members Quinn Allman, Branden Steineckert, and Justin Shekoski also contributed to The Used's rich history.