A seminal alternative rock band from Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA; one of the driving forces behind the 1980's alternative rock scene who helped pave the way for grunge bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam.
Fronted by Paul
Westerberg, the band formed in 1979 and broke up in 1991. The original members were Paul Westerberg (vocals/guitar), Bob
Stinson (guitar), Tommy Stinson (bass) and Chris Mars (drum). In 1985, after the release of their fourth album, "Tim" (widely considered their best album), Bob Stinson was kicked out of the band and replaced by Minneapolis guitarist Slim Dunlap.
They were also referred to jokingly as "the
'Mats", from "the
Placemats", which was what a detractor joked their name was.