Dinosaur Jr. mastermind J Mascis is primarily famous for his signature guitar work, but his songwriting, his voice, and his workethic are also noted attributes. He is not known for his acoustic songs. So the rootsy guitar strums that back-up his melody on the first single from his upcoming solo album, Several Shades Of Why, are instantly alarming. But as the song unfolds, everything you love about Dinosaur Jr.’s songs are there at the core, making the tune is a refreshing change of pace. The track, titled “Not Enough,” is available as a free MP3 download from Sub Pop, all you have to do is give them your email address. Worst thing that might happen is you get an occasional email from a rad record label.
Several Shades Of Why is due out on March 15th. It is Mascis’ first ever solo album, and features a number of guests including Kurt Vile and Kevin Drew. And yes, it is almost entirely acoustic. 2011 might be a weird one.
