J Mascis

The Profile

American guitarist, singer, and songwriter best known as the frontman of Dinosaur Jr., and as a solo artist noted for intimate acoustic records alongside his signature loud, melodic electric style.

Founding member and principal songwriter of Dinosaur Jr.; influential on 1990s alternative rock (cited by Kurt Cobain); signature Fender Jazzmaster user; solo albums include Several Shades of Why (2011) and Tied to a Star (2014, featuring a duet with Cat Power); released the devotional project J + Friends Sing + Chant for Amma; later solo releases include Elastic Days and What Do We Do Now.

Reviews hail J Mascis as a key 90s-influencing guitarist who, solo, favors intimate, acoustic songwriting without losing his electric bite. Tied to a Star and Several Shades of Why draw praise for sincerity and melody, including a duet with Cat Power. The CBGB’s acoustic set is celebrated for raw, close-up vulnerability. Overall sentiment is warmly positive and steeped in nostalgia.