DanaHaynes's Music Collectibles 5-8 Belly
Belly is an American alternative rock band formed in 1991, led by former Throwing Muses guitarist and vocalist Tanya Donelly. The band was created after Donelly’s departure from Throwing Muses, and she was joined by bassist Gail Greenwood, guitarist Tom Gorman, and drummer Chris Gorman. Belly quickly gained attention with their distinctive sound, which combined elements of alternative rock, post-punk, and indie pop. Their debut album, Star (1993), became a critical and commercial success, featuring hits like “Feed the Tree” and “Gepetto.” The album’s lush, melodic sound and Donelly’s ethereal vocals earned the band widespread praise and helped establish them as one of the prominent acts of the 1990s alternative scene.
However, despite their early success, Belly struggled with internal tensions, and their follow-up album, King (1995), did not replicate the commercial success of Star, though it was still well-received by critics. After the band disbanded in 1996, Donelly pursued a solo career, and the members went on to other musical projects. Belly reunited in 2016 for the release of Dove, their first album in over 20 years. The album showcased a more mature, introspective sound but retained the elements that made the band so beloved, such as Donelly’s signature voice and the band’s dreamy, textured instrumentation. Though their time in the spotlight was brief, Belly’s legacy in the alternative rock scene remains strong, with their catchy melodies and unique blend of folk, indie rock, and pop continuing to resonate with listeners.
