311 hails from the midwest city of Omaha, Nebraska, which they make references to in a few of their songs, notably "Omaha Stylee," "F*** the Bull****," and "Random." They formed in the early 90's and are comprised of Nick Hexum on lead vocals and guitar, Doug "SA" Martinez on vocals, P-Nut on bass, Tim Mahoney on lead guitar and Chad Sexton on drums. Their name comes from the police code in Omaha for indecent exposure, stemming from an incident when a member of Hexum's former band was caught skinny-dipping.
The band released three albums on their own before getting a record deal with Capricorn Records. Their subsiquent album entitled "Music" in 1993 took a few songs from the earlier recordings. During touring for "Music," the band's bus burst into flames. Luckily for us all, no one was hurt, but all of their possessions and equipment was destroyed and had to play the next show in Kansas City with borrowed gear. The band sings about this tragedy in their song "Omaha Stylee," released on "Grassroots" in 1994. In 1995 311 released their self-titled album, also known as the blue album. It did not get popular until after the release of the hit song "Down" in 1996. Another notable hit was "All Mixed up." After a long tour, they released the double album "Transistor." It was the bands most unique record to date. It involved more guitar effects and did not feature as much of the rap/rock that popularized the band a year earlier. It showcased Hexum and Martinez' singing voice. Through the years, 311 had devoloped a great live show and tried to capture that effect with the release of a live album in 1998. They then released "Soundsystem" in 1999, which sounded more like the self-titled album; and "From Chaos" in 2001. 2003 brought a new sound and feel to 311 as they released "Evolver," a take on The Beatles album title of "Revolver." Some old-school 311 fans might be turned off by this ablum, although the music is similar to the old stuff, but takes it to a new place that holds a distinction. In 2004 they hit the charts with the cover of The Cure song "Love Song" for the movie "50 First Dates." They give the old song a new feel with mellow raggae.
Through the years, 311 has brought music to the table that doesn't conform to the sound on the radio, playing what they like to play, instead of searching for a radio hit. They remain a band that is completely it's own by combining rock, rap, dance hall, funk and punk in one package. Listen to "Omaha Stylee," and you will understand everything that 311 is about. If you are looking for a broad range of music besides popular radio, I suggest you look into "Music" and "Grassroots." They are two of their better albums, although rather raw, but hold great music that shows 311's talent at their instruments. If you want to get more of a feel from 311, just go to a concert in your hometown, you won't regret it, and the high energy vibe that they put off is infectious. The message of most of their songs are just to have fun and be happy, don't sweat the small stuff and be yourself. "The deapest dream we have could be tomorrow's song."
Bio written by: Rubadubstyle311 |
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