Dinosaurs (band)
| Company type | Supergroup |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1982 |
| Defunct | 1989 |
| Headquarters | San Francisco Bay Area , United States |
| Products | Psychedelic rock music |
Dinosaurs, established in 1982, was a psychedelic rock supergroup originating from the San Francisco Bay Area, rooted in the musical heritage of the 1960s scene in that region.
The band's primary members included Peter Albin (Big Brother and the Holding Company), John Cipollina (Quicksilver Messenger Service), Spencer Dryden (Jefferson Airplane), Robert Hunter (Grateful Dead), Barry Melton (Country Joe and the Fish), along with keyboardist Merl Saunders (Saunders-Garcia Band). Throughout their existence, notable San Francisco musicians such as Papa John Creach (Hot Tuna), Jack Casady (Jefferson Airplane), Nicky Hopkins, Dave Getz, and Country Joe McDonald contributed as guest artists. In the 1990s, touring members also featured David LaFlamme (It's a Beautiful Day) and Jerry Miller (Moby Grape).
Operating between 1982 and 1989, the group experienced Robert Hunter's departure in 1985, with Merl Saunders effectively stepping into his role by 1987. The original formation concluded in 1989; shortly after their last performance, John Cipollina died due to health complications.
Dinosaurs issued their only studio album, Dinosaurs, in 1988. Later, a compilation titled Friends of Extinction was released in 2005 under the Evangeline label.
The band's name recognition influenced the alternative rock act Dinosaur Jr., who added "Jr." to their moniker in 1987 following the release of their album You're Living All Over Me.
Discography
- Dinosaurs (Relix Records, 1988)
- Friends of Extinction (2005)