Skin Yard facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Skin Yard
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Publicity photo 1988, ft. Jack Endino, Ben McMillan, and Daniel House
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| Background information | |
| Origin | Seattle, Washington, U.S. |
| Genres | Grunge |
| Years active | 1985–1993 |
| Labels | Cruz, Toxic Shock, C/Z, Sub Pop |
| Associated acts | 10 Minute Warning, Feedback, Gruntruck, Soundgarden |
| Past members | Ben McMillan Jack Endino Daniel House Matt Cameron Steve Wied Jason Finn Greg Gilmore Scott McCullum Barrett Martin Pat Pedersen |
Skin Yard was a rock band from Seattle, Washington. They were active from 1985 to 1992. This group was very important in the early days of a music style called grunge. They influenced many other bands, like Soundgarden, The Melvins, and Green River. Skin Yard helped create the sound that became known as grunge music.
Contents
What is Grunge Music?
Grunge is a type of alternative rock music. It started in Seattle, Washington, in the mid-1980s. Grunge music often mixes elements of punk rock and heavy metal. It usually has distorted guitar sounds and strong drum beats. The lyrics often talk about feeling bored or frustrated. Famous grunge bands include Nirvana, Pearl Jam, Soundgarden, and Alice in Chains. Skin Yard was one of the first bands to play this style.
The Start of Skin Yard
Skin Yard formed in Seattle in 1985. The main members were Ben McMillan (singer), Jack Endino (guitarist), Daniel House (bassist), and Matt Cameron (drummer). Jack Endino was also a famous music producer. He helped record many grunge bands in his studio. This made him a very important person in the Seattle music scene.
Early Years and First Album
The band quickly became part of the growing music scene in Seattle. They released their first album, called Skin Yard, in 1987. This album was one of the first full-length grunge albums ever made. It showed off their unique sound.
Band Members and Changes
Skin Yard had a few changes in drummers over the years. After Matt Cameron left to join Soundgarden, other drummers played with the band. These included Steve Wied, Jason Finn, Greg Gilmore, Scott McCullum, and Barrett Martin. Even with these changes, the core sound of the band stayed the same.
Important Members
- Ben McMillan: He was the lead singer. His voice helped define the band's sound.
- Jack Endino: He played guitar and was also a record producer. He recorded many famous grunge albums.
- Daniel House: He played bass guitar. He was also involved in the C/Z Records label.
Skin Yard's Music Style
Skin Yard's music was known for its heavy guitar riffs and strong rhythms. They often used a "drop D" guitar tuning. This made their sound heavier and darker. Their songs were often long and had a raw, powerful energy. They focused on creating a unique sound rather than trying to be popular.
Albums and Songs
Over their career, Skin Yard released five studio albums:
- Skin Yard (1987)
- Hallowed Ground (1989)
- Fist Sized Chunks (1990)
- 1,000 Smiling Knuckles (1991)
- Inside the Eye (1993)
Their songs like "Throb" and "Start at the Top" showed their heavy and experimental style.
The End of the Band
Skin Yard broke up in 1992. They had been together for seven years. Even though they didn't become famous like some other grunge bands, they were very important. They helped create the sound and style of grunge music. Many musicians looked up to them.
Their Legacy
Skin Yard is remembered as a pioneering grunge band. Their music influenced many other groups. They helped set the stage for the grunge explosion of the early 1990s. Their albums are still enjoyed by fans of early grunge music.
