Concrete Blonde

Concrete Blonde emerged from the Los Angeles post-punk scene in 1987, founded by Johnette Napolitano and Jim Mankey. Originally known as Dream 6, the band gained attention for their artistic control and signed with I.R.S. Records, changing their name to Concrete Blonde at Michael Stipe's suggestion. Their self-titled debut album showcased influences from the Pretenders, while 1989's Free and 1990's Bloodletting expanded their sound and garnered commercial success. After a decline in popularity, the band reunited between 2001 and 2004, releasing Group Therapy and Mojave before disbanding in 2006.

Concrete Blonde, formed in 1987 in Los Angeles by Johnette Napolitano and Jim Mankey, gained recognition for their distinct sound and DIY ethos. Initially named Dream 6, the band's refusal to compromise on artistic control led to a delayed debut album release. Signing with I.R.S. Records and adopting the name Concrete Blonde, their music evolved from post-punk to a more textured, introspective style showcased on albums like Free and Bloodletting. Despite a decline in commercial success, the band reunited in the early 2000s for two more albums before ultimately disbanding in 2006.