There comes a point in any musical genre where creativity is exhausted and the music begins to stagnate. The musical formulas become so predictable that any idiot can pick up a guitar and imitate the rest. It's at this point that audiences begin to salivate for that original synergy, innovation and excitement. We have arrived at this point in the current musical climate, so I feel a post about one of the most original, exciting and overlooked punk bands to have come and gone was necessary.
From their inception, The Joykiller dedicated themselves to being an innovative force, pushing the punk rock boundaries to the limits. They evolved like most punk bands, rehearsing in garages and playing small sweaty club shows, but always offered more than the same old generic shit.
1995: The Joykiller released their self titled debut on Epitaph and instantly turned heads if for no other reason than the line up itself. The combination of Jack Grisham and Ron Emory (TSOL) raised expectations from the start. With the brilliance of Ronnie King's (Snoop, Tupac) keys and Grisham's aggressive, haunting melodies the band delivered a real and exciting punk album with some of the best songs you will hear.
1996: they followed it up with a classic 10 / 10 album 'Static', which captures the mid 90's summer SoCal mood more than anything else. One of the best albums ever made, Static is essential listening that solidified The Joykiller's contribution. The combination of energy, backing vocals, pianos, beats, melodies...etc it's all there on 'Static'...pure genius. By this time the Joykiller was well received and ripping up the punk scene not only in SoCal but across the US and Europe.
1997: The Joykiller returned to the studio for the 3rd time with producer Thom Wilson to record 'Three'. The result was a record that separates The Joykiller from the rest of the punk rock pack. 'Three' combines a somber and experimental pop edge with punk rock drive and soul, it throws out any expectations of what a punk band should be.
2003: Epitaph put out 'Ready Sexed Go', a compliation of Joykiller material from all 3 albums with the addition of some Jack Grisham solo material, produced by Brett Gurewitz.
The Joykiller carved a niche all of their own, just like classic bands do, e.g The Clash, The Smiths, Social Distortion etc.
I remember hearing this band on one of the first PunkORamas when I was in high school and I loved them. I had no idea it was Jack and Ron until I found this site haha.
