Meat Puppets, an influential American rock band formed in 1980 in Phoenix, Arizona, began their journey as a punk rock trio consisting of brothers Curt and Cris Kirkwood, alongside drummer Derrick Bostrom. Their early work, including the debut album “Meat Puppets” (1982), showcased their unique blend of punk, country, and psychedelic rock, quickly establishing them as a standout act on the SST Records label. The band’s innovative sound was further refined in their critically acclaimed album “Meat Puppets II” (1984), which featured iconic tracks like “Lake of Fire” and “Plateau,” solidifying their status in the emerging cow punk genre.
Transitioning to a major label in the early 1990s, Meat Puppets achieved mainstream success with their album “Too High to Die” (1994), propelled by the exposure from Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged performance, where they performed several of the band’s songs. This collaboration not only introduced Meat Puppets to a broader audience but also led to their highest-charting single, “Backwater.” The album’s commercial success earned them a gold record, marking a significant milestone in their career.
Despite facing challenges, including lineup changes and personal struggles, the band demonstrated resilience by reuniting in 2006. They released new material, including “Rise to Your Knees” (2007) and “Dusty Notes” (2019), showcasing their enduring creativity and ability to evolve with the times. Their live performances continued to captivate audiences, reaffirming their legacy as pioneers in alternative rock.
Throughout their career, Meat Puppets have influenced a generation of musicians, including Nirvana and Soundgarden, and have been recognized for their contributions to the music industry. Their induction into the Arizona Music & Entertainment Hall of Fame in 2017 highlights their lasting impact and the respect they command within the rock community.
