Grant Lee Buffalo | History of the Band

The 90s Alt-Rock Underdogs Who Carved Their Own Hauntingly Atmospheric Path

For those who found solace in the layered soundscapes and introspective lyrics that defined 90s alternative rock, Grant Lee Buffalo is a name that often evokes a wave of nostalgia. With a sound that was both haunting and richly melodic, the band crafted a niche for themselves in a decade teeming with grunge and post-grunge acts. Grant Lee Buffalo’s music was a blend of alternative rock, Americana, and folk, laced with a gothic undertone that set them apart from their contemporaries. Their journey through the 90s, marked by critical acclaim and a fiercely loyal fan base, is a story of artistic evolution and enduring legacy.

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Grant Lee Buffalo was formed in 1991 in Los Angeles, California, by three members who had previously played together in the short-lived band Shiva Burlesque. Vocalist and guitarist Grant-Lee Phillips, bassist Paul Kimble, and drummer Joey Peters transitioned from Shiva Burlesque’s more psychedelic and experimental sound to create something uniquely their own. Grant-Lee Phillips, the creative force behind the band, brought with him a voice that could be both gentle and powerful, paired with an exceptional talent for storytelling. This combination would soon become the hallmark of Grant Lee Buffalo’s music.

The band’s early influences were a mix of 70s rock, folk, and country, but it was Phillips’ fascination with American history, landscapes, and personal narratives that shaped the band’s lyrical direction. Their sound was further characterized by the use of unconventional instruments and experimental recording techniques, which allowed them to create a distinct atmosphere in their music.

From the beginning, Grant Lee Buffalo’s music stood out for its atmospheric qualities and emotional depth. Their debut album, Fuzzy (1993), introduced a sound that was a rich tapestry of Americana, alt-rock, and folk elements, with Phillips’ evocative lyrics front and center. The title track, “Fuzzy,” with its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, became a defining song for the band and was hailed by Michael Stipe of R.E.M. as “the best album of the year, hands down.”

Discography and Notable 90s Albums

Fuzzy (1993): Released on Slash Records, Fuzzy was the band’s introduction to the world, and it set the stage for what would become a significant career. The album received widespread critical acclaim, particularly for its title track and the song “The Hook,” both of which highlighted the band’s ability to blend folk sensibilities with rock intensity. Fuzzy captured the melancholic spirit of the 90s with its brooding atmospheres and reflective lyrics.

Mighty Joe Moon (1994): This album solidified the band’s reputation, with Spin magazine listing it among the best albums of the year. The track “Mockingbirds” became a minor hit and is often considered one of the band’s signature songs. The album was recorded at The Sound Factory in Los Angeles and produced by Paul Kimble, whose production gave the album a warm, analog feel that complemented its rootsy sound.

Copperopolis (1996): Released on Slash/Warner Bros. Records, Copperopolis was a denser, more complex album that saw the band expanding their sonic palette. Though it didn’t achieve the commercial success of its predecessor, it was praised for its ambitious songwriting and rich production. Tracks like “Homespun” and “The Bridge” exemplified the band’s ability to create emotionally resonant music with a cinematic quality.

Jubilee (1998): Jubilee was a departure for the band, both musically and thematically. It was their most accessible album, with a brighter production and a more mainstream sound. However, it also marked the end of an era, as the band dissolved shortly after its release. The album was produced by Paul Fox and released on Slash/London Records, with the single “Truly, Truly” reaching number 11 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart, their highest charting single.

Throughout the 90s, Grant Lee Buffalo garnered significant critical acclaim, though mainstream commercial success largely eluded them. Their debut album, Fuzzy, was widely praised, with Rolling Stone describing it as “a masterpiece of mood and atmosphere.” Mighty Joe Moon received similar acclaim, with AllMusic noting that it “delivered on the promise of their debut.”

Copperopolis was seen as a more challenging listen, but it was still praised for its ambition and depth. Critics like Robert Christgau appreciated the band’s lyrical content and Phillips’ vocal delivery, though there was a sense that the band was struggling to maintain their earlier momentum. By the time Jubilee was released, some critics noted a shift towards a more commercial sound, but it was still lauded for its strong songwriting and production.

Influence and Legacy

Grant Lee Buffalo’s influence on the 90s music scene is subtle but undeniable. While they never achieved the commercial heights of some of their contemporaries, they left a lasting impression on those who encountered their music. Their blend of Americana, folk, and alternative rock has influenced a range of artists, from later alt-country acts to indie folk bands like Fleet Foxes.

Grant-Lee Phillips went on to have a successful solo career after the band’s dissolution, continuing to explore the themes and sounds that had defined his work with Grant Lee Buffalo. His solo albums have been well-received, and he remains a respected figure in the singer-songwriter community.

Grant Lee Buffalo’s journey through the 1990s is a testament to the power of artistic integrity and the enduring appeal of emotionally resonant music. While they may not have been the most commercially successful band of the decade, their work has aged gracefully, continuing to find new listeners and inspiring a deeper appreciation of the era’s musical landscape. Their story is a vital piece of the 90s puzzle, a reminder of the rich diversity of sounds and voices that defined the decade.