That's the formula Weezer synthesized on their 1994 self-titled debut, “The Blue Album,” which remains their best, most enduring album even now, 30 years after its release. It’s a record ...

Weezer released its self-titled debut. The band can be seen—not really looking like a band—on the front cover against a plain blue backdrop, giving the album its unofficial title. It arrived a month ...

Still, Weezer was an unknown band at the time, and there was no guarantee that anyone would pay attention to them. After signing their record deal, the band wanted to self-produce their debut album.