Melvins

The Melvins formed in Montesano, Washington in 1983, founded by guitarist and vocalist Buzz Osborne (King Buzzo) and drummer Dale Crover. Pioneering a style that combined Black Sabbath's slow heaviness with punk aggression and dropped-D tuning, they became the primary influence on the entire Pacific Northwest grunge movement. Kurt Cobain carried their gear to shows before forming Nirvana; Soundgarden, Mudhoney, Alice in Chains, and Screaming Trees all cite the Melvins as foundational. Signed to Atlantic Records in 1990 on the strength of that influence, the band released three uncompromising albums — Houdini (1993), Stoner Witch (1994), and Stag (1996) — before returning to the underground. They have released over 25 studio albums and continue to tour relentlessly. Buzz Osborne and Dale Crover remain the core lineup.