Buffalo Tom | History of the Band

Crafting a Soundtrack of the 90s and Beyond with Grit and Melody

Photo credit: Clayton Miller

Buffalo Tom, an iconic figure in the alternative rock scene, carved out a significant niche for themselves during the transformative and tumultuous 1990s. Their journey began in 1986 at the University of Massachusetts, where Bill Janovitz, Chris Colbourn, and Tom Maginnis first came together. Their unique sound was inspired by classic bands such as The Replacements and The Rolling Stones. The band's name was a playful reference to Buffalo Springfield and drummer Tom Maginnis, reflecting their serious approach to their craft with a hint of humor. Their debut album, released in 1988 and co-produced by J Mascis of Dinosaur Jr., garnered attention from college radio stations and critical acclaim, laying the foundation for their success in the following decade.

Kevin Conn suggested this artist for a future Dig Me Out podcast episode. Each month, our Patrons are presented with a selection of albums suggested by listeners and asked to vote for their favorite. The album with the most votes is given another minute in the spotlight. Vote and share your thoughts.

Musical Style and Evolution

Buffalo Tom's music in the 1990s retained the core elements of their initial sound while exploring deeper emotional and lyrical themes. Their 1990 album, "Birdbrain," signaled a maturation in their music, receiving attention from major labels and leading to their signing with Beggars Banquet Records. This period was characterized by an increasing complexity in their songwriting and a refined approach to their alternative rock foundation.

Discography and Notable 90s Albums

The 1990s saw the release of several significant albums by Buffalo Tom, including:

• "Birdbrain" (1990): With improved songwriting and a cohesive sound, this album marked a leap in Buffalo Tom's musical journey, receiving widespread acclaim.

• "Let Me Come Over" (1992): Featured tracks like "Taillights Fade," balancing rock energy with lyrical depth, reflecting further stylistic development.

• "Big Red Letter Day" (1993): This album polished their studio sound, producing radio-ready singles like "Sodajerk" and achieving broader exposure.

• "Sleepy Eyed" (1995): A return to a more raw production, this album showcased the band's versatility and commitment to their core sound.

• "Smitten" (1998): Closing the decade, "Smitten" explored more keyboard-based arrangements, showing a band unafraid to experiment and grow, even as they stayed close to their rock roots​.

Critical Reception

Buffalo Tom's work in the 1990s was met with critical acclaim and constructive critique. "Big Red Letter Day" received a wide range of professional ratings, including high marks from NME and a more reserved assessment from The Village Voice. In his book "Alternative Rock," Dave Thompson praised the band for their moody melodies and exquisite guitars, highlighting their unique place in the college rock genre.

Influence and Legacy

Buffalo Tom's influence during the 1990s extended beyond their immediate discography, contributing to the era's soundtrack with their music featuring in cultural touchstones like the television series "My So-Called Life." Their ability to blend introspective lyrics with a robust alternative rock sound earned them a dedicated fanbase and a lasting legacy within the genre.

After the 1990s, the band went on a hiatus but made a notable return in the 2000s with several new albums and contributions to various projects and compilations. Throughout their career, Buffalo Tom has navigated changes in the music industry with resilience and adaptability, continuing to produce work that resonates with audiences old and new. With a discography that spans the raw and the refined, their music offers a window into the soulful exploration of the era. Through albums that charted both emotional landscapes and the Billboard, Buffalo Tom remains a poignant reminder of the power of melody and the enduring appeal of thoughtful rock music. Their story, punctuated by critical acclaim and a loyal fan following, is a testament to their impact on the 90s music scene and beyond.

Sources

• Wikipedia

• The Music Museum of New England

• LPM

• AllMusic