Artist: 311 Album: Grassroots

Year: 1994
Duration: 38:20

A of 311's Album Grassroots

In the early 90s, alternative rock was starting to gain popularity, and 311 was one of the bands that rose to fame during that time. Formed in Omaha, Nebraska in 1988, 311 has become one of the most iconic bands of the genre, blending together elements of rock, reggae, and hip hop. Among their discography is their second album, Grassroots, which was released in 1994. In this article, we will take a closer look at this album, its history, and what makes it a standout gem in 311's music career.
The Grassroots album was a departure from the more rock and funk-driven sound of 311's debut album. It showcased the band's explorations into reggae and punk rock, with songs such as Homebrew, Omaha Stylee, and Silver, which were standout tracks on the record. The band also experimented with adding more electronic elements to their sound with Lose and Nutsymptom, which added an interesting layer to the album's overall sound.
One of the most innovative parts of this album is the seamless blending of different music genres. 311 has always been known for their ability to fuse different musical styles into their music, and Grassroots is no exception. The infusion of reggae and punk rock creates a unique sound that sets 311 apart from other bands in the genre. The band was able to take two very different sounds and make them work together harmoniously, which is no easy feat.
While every song on the album is good in its own right, a few stand out as being the best. Omaha Stylee is a track that showcases 311's punk rock roots, with a fast-paced tempo and punchy lyrics. Silver adds a bit of funk to the mix, with its groovy bassline and catchy hooks. Homebrew is possibly the most well-known song from the album, and it's easy to see why. The song's reggae-infused rock sound makes it a fan favorite to this day.
However, despite the album's strengths, there are a few areas where it falls short. The slower songs, such as Applied Science and Grassroots, can sometimes feel like filler tracks on the album. Their lack of energy and slow tempos disrupt the overall flow of the record, and they don't quite pack the same punch as the faster-paced tracks. Additionally, some of the tracks, such as Salsa and Six, can feel a bit disjointed, as if the band was trying to do too much in one song.
Overall, 311's Grassroots album is a standout record in the band's music career. It showcases their ability to blend different music genres together in a seamless way, while also showcasing their talent as musicians. While there are some weaker tracks on the album, the strengths of the record weigh out the negatives. This album is definitely worth a listen for anyone who enjoys alternative rock, reggae, or punk rock music. It's a classic example of 311's unique sound and a must-have for any music fan's collection.