196. Dinosaur Jr.

In the 80’s much of the Independent and Alternative scene had a synthesized feel to it. Dinosaur Jr. was a band that helped to bring back the guitar attack to the Alternative scene and prior to the Alternative explosion in the early 90’s, could have been considered one of the most important American Alternative acts of the late 80’s.

Like many Underground acts of their time, Dinosaur Jr. was heavily influenced by the Punk sound. Where others explored Electronic arrangements, Dinosaur Jr. explored the basic instrument of Rock; the guitar. With a bizarre (For Alt Rock) Classic Rock infusion, very loud guitars and an interesting use of feedback, Dinosaur Jr. had a unique sound and influenced artists in the decade that followed. Where Dinosaur Jr. faltered is they may have deviated too far (for some) towards experimental Noise Rock in later efforts and like so many bands their later work paled to their earlier work. Dinosaur Jr. might receive a look from the Hall, but like so many Alternative bands, we suspect that the Hall would wait for the Grunge acts first.

Should Dinosaur Jr. be in the Hall of Fame?

Definitely put them in! - 68.5%

Maybe, but others deserve it first. - 18.5%

Probably not, but it wouldn't be the end of the world. - 11.1%

No opinion. - 0%

No way! - 1.9%

The Bullet Points

Eligible Since: Friday, 01 January 2010
Country of Origin: U.S.A. (Amherst, MA)
Why they will get in: They are respected and have been considered influential in various music circles.
Why they won't get in: They are long behind other Alternative acts in line to get in.
Nominated in: Never
Essential Albums: You’re Living All Over Me (1987)
Bug (1988)
Green Mind (1991)
Where You Been (1993)
Our Five Favorite Songs as Chosen by Each Member of the NIHOF Committee: Little Furry Things (From You’re Living All Over Me, 1987)
Tar Pit (From You’re Living All Over Me, 1987)
Freak Scene (From Bug, 1988)
Puke + Cry (From Green Mind, 1991)
Start Choppin (From Where You Been, 1993)