Squirtgun channels fervent, high-octane melodic punk in the vein of Lookout Records, echoing the style of the Descendents, Green Day, and Screeching Weasel. Punk producer and bassist Mass Giorgini assembled the group in autumn 1993 from the remnants of his prior outfit, Rattail Grenadier. Guitarist Flav Giordini and drummer Dan Lumley, both formerly of Rattail, joined forces with vocalist and guitarist Matt Hart, previously of Freaks of Nature. In spring 1995 the band tracked its first EP, Shenanigans, for Lookout, after which the track “Social” appeared in Kevin Smith’s film Mallrats. The self-titled full-length followed later that same year. Zac Damon was subsequently added on guitar and vocals for live performances, leading to the 1996 release of the Mary Ann EP, a tribute to the Gilligan’s Island character that included a music video with actress Dawn Wells in a cameo role. Another Sunny Afternoon, the band’s second album, arrived in spring 1997. Attention soon shifted toward separate endeavors such as Screeching Weasel, the Mopes, Common Rider, and Simian. Honest Don’s Records issued the third and most propulsive LP, Fade to Bright, during summer 2003.
