The Smithereens first got together in 1980, with Dennis Diken, Mike Mesaros, Jim Babjak, and Pat DiNizio its founding members. The four stayed together until 2006, then Mesaros left to be replaced by Severo Jornacion, who remained with the group from 2006 until 2016, until Mesaros returned. DiNizio passed away in 2017, so The Smithereens continued performing as a trio comprising Diken, Babjak, and Mesaros, along with guest vocalists.
The band’s heyday was in the 1980s and 1990s, when they produced hits like “Too Much Passion,” “A Girl Like You,” and “Only a Memory.” The Smithereens have worked with stars like The Kinks, Lou Reed, and Julian Lennon, both live and in the studio.
A review says:
“One can't help but smile at the sheer joy they bring to the stage as consummate curators of thrilling guitar ecstasy.”
The Smithereens’ guest is Marshall Crenshaw, who often tours with the band. Crenshaw, a singer/songwriter known for “Whenever You’re on My Mind” and “Someday, Someway,” was often compared to Buddy Holly, who inspired him. He also played Holly in the film “La Bamba,” released in 1987.
One concertgoer wrote:
“A fantastic night where the talented Mr. Crenshaw belted out finely crafted songs from a back catalogue stretching back to 1982.”
The performance is scheduled for November 4 at 8:30 pm, at the Ludlow Garage. Events like these can be publicized if organizers use poster printing to create advertising.