The Smithereens in Chicago

The Smithereens are an American rock band formed in 1980 in Carteret, New Jersey. Led by singer and songwriter Pat DiNizio, they paired compact power-pop writing with ringing guitars and a garage-rock edge. They are known for “Blood and Roses,” “Only a Memory” and “A Girl Like You,” as well as the albums Especially for You, Green Thoughts and 11. A 1986 performance at The Bottom Line in New York documented the band’s early club-era live sound and was later released as Live at the Bottom Line. After Pat DiNizio’s death, the surviving members reunited for a 2018 memorial concert at the Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank, then resumed performing with guest lead singers Marshall Crenshaw and Robin Wilson.