The Smithereens Members, Gear & Sound
New Jersey power pop band
Members
Select a The Smithereens band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
The Smithereens are a quintessential American rock band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of New Jersey in the early 1980s. Known for their blend of alternative rock, power pop, and roots rock, the group was founded by Pat DiNizio (vocals, guitar), alongside high school friends Jim Babjak (guitar), Mike Mesaros (bass), and Dennis Diken (drums). Their sound pays homage to the British Invasion while infusing the raw energy of New Wave and hard rock. The band's catchy melodies and introspective lyrics garnered them significant attention with hits like "A Girl Like You" and "Too Much Passion," marking their influence on both the college rock circuit and mainstream charts.
How to Sound Like The Smithereens
The Smithereens craft a sound that is both gritty and melodic, characterized by their love for sharp, jangly guitars and driving rhythms. Their sonic palette is anchored by Jim Babjak's use of the Fender Telecaster and Rickenbacker guitars, which deliver crisp, chiming tones that cut through the mix. This is complemented by the robust presence of Mike Mesaros' Fender Precision Bass, which adds depth and groove to their tracks. The energetic drumming of Dennis Diken brings a dynamic, propulsive force, often enhanced by vintage Marshall amplifiers like the JCM800 that provide a rich, overdriven sound. This combination of jangly guitars, solid bass lines, and driving rhythms creates a sound that is both timeless and deeply evocative of their rock and pop influences.
Discography
Especially For You
1986
Green Thoughts
1988
Smithereens 11
1989
Blow Up
1991
A Date with The Smithereens
1994
God Save The Smithereens
1999
Anthology: From Jersey It Came
2004
God Save The Smithereens - Deluxe Edition
2005
Especially For You: 30th Anniversary
2016
Meet The Smithereens
2016
The Smithereens Cover Tunes Collection
2018
11 (Live Compilation)
2019
The Music From Jim Babjak's Buzzed Meg Part 1
2019
Demos 1: Girls About Town / Beauty & Sadness / Especially For You
2019
Especially for You (Live Compilation)
2019
Live at Sigma Sound
2019
Play the Beatles (Live)
2020
11: 25th Anniversary (Live at Electric Lady 1989)
2020
Live in Sweden 1984
2020
Blow Up (Live & Alternative Versions)
2020
A Date With The Smithereens (Live & Alternate Versions)
2020
The Smithereens (Live)
2020
Demos 3: Blow Up / A Date With The Smithereens
2020
Demos 4: Songs & Sounds
2020
Demos 5: God Save The Smithereens
2020
The Lost Album
2022
Christmas With The Smithereens
2022
The Smithereens Play Tommy
2022
2011
2025
Get the The Smithereens Sound
Want to sound like The Smithereens? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
