311 first got noteriety in 1995 with their single Down from their self titled record. They sort of Re-emerged in 2004 with a cover of the Cure's Love song.
Through their attitude is very L.A. (barf) these are corn fed guys from Omaha, Nebraska.
Along with Rage Against the Machine, they launched a wave of horrid rap-metal knock off's from Limp Biskit to Pappa Roach. It's funny since I bet none of those bands really listened to a 311 record all the way through.
Their singer Nix Hex has gone on to say his biggest influence is the Clash. I am going to take a wild guess and say it's more London Calling and Sandanista stuff. they have a fantastic cover of White man in Hammersmith Palais.
Their most over-looked and criticised record 'Transistor' is probably their best and most daring effort. It displays some awesome musicianship, musical experimentation, and varied emotional and colorful texture. It was a very uncommerical record coming on the heels of their commercial breakthrough. Alot of fans hate it, but they usually don't have the reputation of being particularly smart (kinda like a lot of lynard skinard or metallica fans.) I have known bass players to be particularly drawn to 311.
Over the years they have wandered away from if not totally abandoned the 'rap' aspect of their work. both of their vocalist can sing extremely well with a pretty decent range (though i'm not talking zeppelin era robert plant per se) the group puts out a ton of energy and knows the art of the jam, in their own way. They can play pretty heavy and blast the fuck out of their speakers. Some shows run 3-4 plus hours long. most of all it's fun!
their most recent album 'uplifter' is an excercise in positivity as is most of their music. They are one of the few groups out their who know how to write positive lyrics with genuine knowledge and smarts. I wish there were more people like them.
