The Smithereens

The Smithereens

The Smithereens are an American alternative rock band from Carteret, New Jersey, formed in 1980 and active from that point onward. The group is associated with alternative rock, hard rock and power pop, and is also described as a New Jersey power pop band.

Style and influences

The band develops a roots-rock sound with an emphasis on East Coast rock, while drawing on a range of 1960s and 1970s influences. Pat DiNizio’s influences include Buddy Holly, The Who, The Clash, Elvis Costello and Nick Lowe. The Smithereens also make use of a retro interest in mod culture, the late British Invasion pop of John’s Children and The Move, and other 1950s and 1960s references.

Notable recordings and chart success

Their first album includes Blood and Roses, a single that appears on the soundtrack to the 1986 film Dangerously Close and is used as the film’s theme song. The song’s video receives moderate rotation on MTV. The band’s highest-charting album on the Billboard pop chart is 11, which reaches number 41 in 1990, helped by the single A Girl Like You, which reaches number 38.

In January 2007, the band releases Meet the Smithereens, a cover version of Meet the Beatles. Bassist Mike Mesaros does not appear on the album and is replaced by Severo Jornacion. Later in 2007, the band issues Christmas with The Smithereens, which includes three original songs and nine Christmas covers.

Line-up

The group includes Mike Mesaros, Pat DiNizio, Jim Babjak, Dennis Diken and Severo Jornacion.

Activity

The Smithereens continue to tour frequently and remain active.