For a certain generation, 1964 was the year that turned the United States on its ear. "It was the year that changed everything," says Smithereens singer Pat DiNizio, ticking off events in the cultural upheaval that began with the assassination of President John F. Kennedy in November 1963. "And for anybody who was musically inclined, nothing was more important than 'Meet the Beatles!' It's arguably the most important rock 'n' roll record of all time."
That slab of vinyl left its mark on millions, including DiNizio's scruffy New Jersey pop band, which went on to make seven albums in a 26-year career. Now, 43 years later, the Smithereens have left their imprint on the Beatles, in January releasing "Meet the Smithereens!" -- a song-by-song re-creation of the original. Though the Smithereens largely use the original arrangements, the album doesn't simply ape the Fab Four. The New York Times likened it to a classical performance, saying "it balances fidelity to the original with a projection of the interpreter's style."
