Garbage

Initially a project began by three producers, Butch Vig, Steve Marker and Duke Erikson, Garbage officially formed in 1993, though the group’s lineup was solidified a year later when they recruited vocalist Shirley Manson. They discovered Manson when a video from her band, Angelfish, aired on MTV. With polished production, a strong pop sensibility that blends seamlessly with electronica and rock, Garbage’s sound became the gold standard of ‘90s electro/rock, trip-hop. Manson’s seductive delivery and engaging performances made her an ideal frontwoman.

Prior to Garbage’s inception, the trio of producers came together via another band. Vig and Erikson played in the group Spooner, and Marker began recording their songs. It was around this time that Vig and Marker joined forces to form Wisconsin’s Smart Studios, one of the most notable studios in the country. Recording many of the dominant indie label artists of the time period, Smart Studios worked with some of the most respected indie labels, including Sub Pop, Touch And Go, and Twin/Tone. Vig became a household name, however, in 1991, when he produced Nirvana’s Nevermind. His producer star continued to rise as he worked with mega alterna-acts like Smashing Pumpkins, Sonic Youth and L7.

Garbage’s debut album, released on Almo Records, dropped in 1995. The eponymous set produced big radio hits, including “Queer,” “Only Happy When it Rains,” and “Stupid Girl.” The album eventually achieved platinum status. The group took a short break before returning to the studio to begin recording its sophomore album in 1997. Version 2.0 hit the streets in May 1998. The album garnered two hits, “Push It” and “I Think I’m Paranoid.”

Garbage took a longer hiatus before returning in 2001 with a more honed sound on Beautiful Garbage. Songs like “Androgyny,” “Shut Your Mouth” and “Cherry Lips (Go Baby Go!)” showcased the group’s range and were popular on radio.

Amid rumors of in-fighting and a possible break up, the band reemerged in 2005 with Bleed Like Me. The album is a veritable trip to a bigger sound that highlights its collective talents, and houses less electronica forays than their previous albums. Garbage followed the album with a North American tour.