Known for writing and playing catchy 1960s-influenced power pop that inspired countless alternative rocker including Kurt Cobain while writing Nevermind, The Smithereens gained popularity with “11” the album the spawned college campus favorites “A Girl Like You”, “Blood and Roses” & “Blue Period”. On April 5th Smithereens will release “2011” their first album of new material in 12 years. Produced by Don Dixon (who helmed Especially For You, the group’s breakout debut), Smithereens 2011 features 13 new tracks and finds the seminal New Jersey rockers picking up right where they left off: with irresistibly catchy hooks and rapturously fuzzed-out guitars. Eschewing extensive pre-production, the band cut a raw and electric album in the best tradition of Cheap Trick or Big Star that just begs you to roll down the windows and crank up the volume.