Hand It Over

About the Album

Hand It Over, released in 1997, is Dinosaur Jr’s seventh studio album and their last before a nearly decade-long hiatus. The album represents a more experimental direction for the band, incorporating psychedelic elements and varied instrumentation while maintaining their signature guitar-heavy sound. Notable guest appearances include My Bloody Valentine’s Kevin Shields on the track “Nothin’s Goin On.”

The album was recorded at J’s home studio in Amherst, Massachusetts, with additional sessions at Fort Apache Studios. The production, handled by Mascis with engineer Brian Paulson and mixer John Agnello, achieves a rich, layered sound that sets it apart from their previous work. The recording process was more relaxed than earlier albums, allowing for more experimentation with arrangements and sonic textures.

While Hand It Over was initially overlooked upon release, partly due to limited promotion from their label, the album has since been recognized as an underrated gem in Dinosaur Jr’s catalog. Critics have praised its experimental nature and sophisticated songwriting, with many considering it a fitting, if unintentional, conclusion to the band’s first phase. The album’s influence can be heard in numerous indie rock bands that followed, particularly those combining heavy guitar work with psychedelic elements. Its commercial performance led to the band’s hiatus, but its artistic achievements helped maintain interest in the band during their inactive years.