Episode 217: Dennis Diken of The Smithereens

Look At My Records!

Episode 217 of Look At My Records! features an interview with Dennis Diken, drummer of the legendary New Jersey band The Smithereens. The Carteret, New Jersey natives (and New Jersey Hall of Famers) have been at it for over 40 years. Along the way, they’ve sold millions of records, played on Saturday Night Live, toured the globe, and done just about everything you can do as a band. Following the tragic and untimely passing of frontman Pat Dinizio in late 2017, the Smithereens have continued playing live to critical acclaim, with a rotating cast of singers that include power pop icon Marshall Crenshaw and Gin Blossoms’ frontman Robin Wilson. Last month, the band unveiled their Lost Album, a record that was recorded at Crystal Sound Studios in New York City in early 1993, only to be shelved for three decades. During their interview, Tom and Dennis talked all about the Lost Album, including the circumstances surrounding the mid-90s recording sessions, why the album is now seeing the light of day, and more. They also chatted about the band’s heyday, where Dennis shared fond memories of a particular New Jersey concert supporting Squeeze at Brendan Byrne Arena in 1987, playing a gig in Iceland when the band’s debut album, Especially For You, was number 1 on that country’s charts, and more. Plus, Dennis picked some awesome records from Tom’s collection, including choice cuts from The Zombies, The Impressions, and more. You can follow along with his selections via the official playlist for Episode 217.

The Lost Album is out now via Sunset Boulevard Records. You can purchase a copy of the record via the band’s website. You can also stream it on your platform of choice. Keep up with The Smithereens by liking them on Facebook and following them on Instagram.