The Smithereens w/ guest vocalist John Wesley Harding
City Winery Boston presents: The Smithereens w/ guest vocalist John Wesley Harding live on January 23rd at 7:30pm.
Since their formation in Carteret, New Jersey in 1980, The Smithereens have earned a reputation as one of America’s most enduring rock bands. Founding members Pat DiNizio (vocals/guitar), Jim Babjak (guitar/vocals), Mike Mesaros (bass/vocals), and Dennis Diken (drums/vocals) built a distinctive sound rooted in the melodic punch of the British Invasion, fused with the raw energy of American garage rock. The result was a catalog of timeless songs that continue to resonate with audiences worldwide.
The band’s breakthrough came with the 1986 release of Especially for You, featuring the modern rock classics “Blood and Roses” and “Behind the Wall of Sleep.” Critical acclaim and radio success soon followed with Green Thoughts (1988) and 11 (1989), albums that delivered charting singles including “Only a Memory,” “A Girl Like You,” and “Too Much Passion.” Throughout the late 1980s and 1990s, The Smithereens became fixtures on MTV, college radio, and mainstream rock stations, while touring extensively with artists such as Tom Petty, Lou Reed, and The Pretenders.
Celebrated for their muscular live performances, The Smithereens have always stayed true to their roots while expanding their reach. Their body of work includes not only original material but also acclaimed tributes to their musical heroes, including full-length homages to The Beatles and The Who, affirming their place in the lineage of classic rock.
Following the passing of frontman Pat DiNizio in 2017, Babjak, Mesaros, and Diken made the decision to honor his memory by continuing to perform and record. Joined by guest vocalists such as John Wesley Harding, Robin Wilson (Gin Blossoms), John Cowsill (from the Cowsills & Beach Boys) and Marshall Crenshaw, the band continues to bring their celebrated songs to both longtime fans and new generations. The band’s latest album is THE LOST ALBUM featuring previously unreleased sessions with Pat DiNizio.
Today, The Smithereens stand as a vital, influential force in American rock—defined by ringing guitars, unforgettable hooks, and a spirit of resilience that ensures their music remains as powerful and relevant as ever.
(opens in a new tab)🍽️ We provide food and beverage service directly to your table in the venue. Or, for an expanded menu and more relaxed experience, arrive early and enjoy a meal in our restaurant before the show. When dining in the restaurant, reservations are encouraged and can be made via Resy starting one month before the show. View Our Concert Dining Menu.(opens in a new tab)
Reserve your preferred wine by filling out this form(opens in a new tab) and have a bottle waiting at your table when you arrive at your show. No more waiting for your first drink! We will save your wine preference and have a bottle at your table for all future shows. When you want to change your wine, come back to this form and update your preference.
🎶 While we do not require a two-item food or beverage minimum, we strongly encourage it. Most ticket revenue goes directly to the artist and production costs, so food and drink purchases help support the staff, service, and atmosphere that make these intimate shows possible.
The good news: we think you’ll love the food and wine just as much as the show.
🍷 Members get 48 hour early access to new shows, pay no ticket fees, and earn points to exchange for complimentary tickets. Vinofile VIP+ members also receive many wine benefits. Add a membership to your cart during checkout to start saving now. Already a member? Make sure you are signed in to access your benefits. Become a Vinofile Member and enjoy the benefits today.(opens in a new tab)
