The early ‘90s were a wild time for alternative music. While grunge was king, bands were starting to mix genres in ways that hadn’t been done before. 311, hailing from Omaha, Nebraska, were ahead of the curve. Formed in the late ’80s, the band members—Nick Hexum, Aaron “P-Nut” Wills, Chad Sexton, Tim Mahoney, and Doug “SA” Martinez—were already making waves with their self-released records and relentless touring.
311’s sophomore album, Grassroots, dropped in 1994, showcasing their fearless genre-blending. The album starts with “Homebrew,” a track that shifts from groovy riffs to heavy, minor-key breakdowns. Songs like “Omaha Stylee” and “Six” highlight their knack for combining reggae rhythms with prog-rock complexities. The guitar work, especially with the fuzz octave effect, gives the album a unique flavor that sets it apart.
Tracks like “Homebrew” and “Lucky” keep you on your toes with their quick shifts in mood and style. “Six” stands out, showing off the band’s chops with its intricate time signatures and progressive rock influences. And let’s not forget “Salsa,” which features some killer guitar dives that make you feel like you’re on a wild ride.
When “Grassroots” emerged, the idea of mixing rock with other genres was still fresh. 311 were pioneers, and their sound laid the groundwork for the nu-metal and alternative scenes that exploded later in the decade. Bands like Korn and Rage Against the Machine definitely noticed what 311 was doing.
Seeing 311 live in the ‘90s was an experience. Their energy was off the charts, and they knew how to get a crowd moving. They’ve stayed active over the years, continuing to release albums and tour: their dedicated fanbase, the “excited to this day, and for good reason. “Grassroots” is more than just an album; it’s a testament to 311’s innovative spirit and ability to create music transcending genres.
If you’re a fan of genre-blending music and high-energy performances, “Grassroots” is definitely worth a listen. It’s got everything from reggae rhythms to prog-rock solos, all wrapped up in a sound that’s uniquely 311. Plus, it’s a fun trip down memory lane to a time when the music scene was all about experimentation and breaking the rules.
Songs in this Episode
Intro - Homebrew
23:54 - Lucky
28:32 - Salsa
40:40 - Rock That Doesn't Roll / Dope Nostalgia podcast promos
48:47 - Omaha Stylee
57:43 - 8:16 AM
Outro - 1, 2, 3
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