Pressed on 180g vinyl and remastered, “Green Mind” is the fourth studio album by alternative rock band Dinosaur Jr. Originally released in 1991, it was the band’s first release after bassist Lou Barlow’s departure, as well as the first released by a major label. The record is close to being a J Mascis solo album, with drummer Murph only featuring on three tracks.

The cover photograph, Priscilla, 1969, is by Joseph Szabo and taken from his book of photographs Almost Grown. “Turnip Farm” is also featured in the film Reality Bites.

After temporarily suspending the band, J Mascis first snuck out “The Wagon” as a Sub Pop single, then a little while later released the group’s first major-label album, Green Mind. More of a solo project than a group effort – Lou Barlow was out and then some, a few guests pop up here and there – it’s still a great album, recorded and performed with gusto. Such a judgment may seem strange given Mascis’ legendary image as the überslacker, but clearly the man knows how to balance how to convey himself with getting the job done. Don Fleming of Gumball fame adds some of the music and background vocals, but otherwise it’s Mascis and Murph cranking it and having a blast.

When Mascis goes into one of his patented over-the-top solos, it all feels just right – this is loud rock music for putting a smile on your face, not beating up people in a pit. The remainder of the album floats and rumbles along in its uniquely Dinosaur Jr. type of way, as apt to find poppy hooks, singalongs, and soft strumming as it is to blow out the Marshalls.