"Stag" is the eighth studio album by American rock band, The Melvins. This album was released on July 15, 1996, through Atlantic Records and is often considered to be one of their most accessible and diverse works. The band itself was formed in 1983 in Montesano, Washington, by Buzz Osborne, Matt Lukin, and Mike Dillard, who all went to high school together.
The band’s lineup has been fluid over years, but Osborne, also known as King Buzzo, has remained the only consistent member. By the time "Stag" was recorded, The Melvins had come to consist of Osborne, Dale Crover, and Mark Deutrom. They are often regarded as pioneers within the heavy metal subgenre of sludge metal, and have influenced a multitude of artists and bands that followed.
Stylistically, "Stag" is noted for its eclectic mix of styles. The album incorporates elements of grunge, sludge metal, experimental rock, and even hints of country music, showing the band's vast range. It includes unique instrumentation, with a theremin even making an appearance, alongside acoustic guitar and electronic noises. Standout tracks include "The Bit," which opens the album, and "Bar-X the Rocking M", which incorporates a horn section.
Despite the band's fearless experimentation, Stag did not perform as well commercially as its Atlantic predecessor. However, the album has nonetheless secured a place in The Melvins' extensive discography as a testament to the boundary-pushing nature and innovation of the band. Critical reception of the album was generally positive, although some critics found the band's constant experimentation slightly bewildering.
It's worth noting that the album's cover art -- featuring the band members dressed as deer -- is as much of a curiosity as the band itself. This ensemble is a fitting visual accompaniment to the band’s brand of unusual, genre-defying music.
