Introducing the Minutemen

Though they were too unique and specific to have far-reaching influence, Minutemen remain one of the most important and beloved bands to emerge from the '80s American underground. Time and again, they embodied impossible contradictions. They were working stiffs who promoted intellectualism and political consciousness; they personified the ideals of punk rock even as they broke every musical rule; they presented themselves as everymen, even though it was obvious that no one else could replicate their sound. Most importantly, they were a trio that operated as friends first. Their down-to-earth demeanor and open love for each other (and the music) is what makes the music on Introducing the Minutemen eternally relatable. Out of the hundreds of songs they wrote and recorded (before a 1985 van accident took D. Boon’s life), Minutemen left no mainstream hits. But without question, these 35 songs are hits to those who loved them. For all the music's fury, these guys were sweet at heart; their essence is contained in “History Lesson Part 2,” the best two-minute autobiography ever put to song.