The Smithereens have almost always been an underappreciated band, and sadly I only fully appreciated them after the passing of frontman Pat DiNizio about two years ago. That’s when I spent some quality time going through their back catalogue, including the album where they live out their garage-band fantasy and joyously tear through most of The Who’s “Tommy.”
They also have a terrific holiday album, “Christmas With The Smithereens,” which adds their signature sound to some holiday standards as well as a few curveballs. Take a listen to “Christmas Time All Over The World” and see if you don’t end up appreciating this band a little more too.
