Muffs, The Vinyl Records
Often described as a pop-punk band, the Muffs both defined and transcended that subgenre. Led by guitarist, singer, and songwriter Kim Shattuck, the Muffs played rock & roll that was fast, loud, and cheerfully snotty, but they also had an uncommon gift for melody and pop hooks, with the sweet and sour sides of the music eagerly complementing one another. Shattuck was also blessed with a great rock & roll voice, sounding sweetly girlish or culminating in a throaty roar, and she could write lyrics that were deeply serious and introspective without sacrificing the drive of the band when they hit fifth gear.