On this day February 22 1989 Goo Goo Dolls released their second album Jed. This album showcased the band’s early punk rock and garage rock sound before they transitioned to the more polished alternative rock style that would bring them mainstream success. Jed was released under Metal Blade Records and produced by Armand John Petri. The album features a raw, energetic sound influenced by punk and post-punk bands, with bassist Robby Takac handling most of the vocals instead of John Rzeznik, who would later become the band’s primary singer.
While Jed didn’t achieve mainstream recognition, it played a crucial role in shaping the band’s musical identity and gained a cult following over time. Songs like Up Yours and No Way Out highlight the aggressive, youthful energy that defined their early work.
80s insight: The album was named after a friend of the band, artist Jed Jackson, who also created the album’s cover artwork.