Hurl

Formed during the summer of 1991, Pittsburgh-based Hurl began as a three-piece unit. Matt Daly handled guitar and vocals at the helm, while Matt Jenick, who also performed with Don Caballero, covered guitar and bass duties alongside drummer Dave Brunger. Their approach centered on high-energy, guitar-led alternative and punk material, initially documented through multiple singles. Dan Wilson soon joined on guitar, expanding the instrumental density. Noah Leger, previously associated with the Speaking Canaries, took over on drums with a more straightforward style, locking in the current configuration. His addition brought a stronger, more direct sonic presence, clearly audible on the band's debut album for Third Gear, A Place Called Today. Shellac's Bob Weston produced the record, which appealed to listeners drawn to rugged yet occasionally ethereal alt-rock. Following its release, Hurl toured clubs extensively. We Are Quiet arrived in 1998, with Not a Memory emerging the next year.