Drive Like Jehu

Drive Like Jehu was an American post-hardcore and alternative rock band from San Diego active from 1990 to 1995.
Drive Like Jehu - The Iconic Post-Hardcore Band
As music evolves, so do the various genres and sub-genres that make it. However, there are some bands that have influenced and shaped a particular genre so much that they become legendary. One such band is Drive Like Jehu, a San Diego-based post-hardcore group formed in 1990. In this blog post, we will take a look at the band’s history, music genre, best songs, famous concerts and a critic.
Drive Like Jehu was formed by Rick Froberg and John Reis, joined later by Mike Kennedy and Mark Trombino. The band played their first show in San Diego in 1990 and quickly became known for their unique style of post-hardcore. Their music is characterized by frantic rhythms, intricate guitar work and Froberg’s distinct vocal style.
Their first album, self-titled Drive Like Jehu, was released in 1991 and would mark a new era in post-hardcore music. It was followed up with Yank Crime two years later, an album that was more refined and showcased the band's incredible musicianship. Critics praised the album, and it became a fan favorite, selling thousands of copies worldwide.
One of Drive Like Jehu's most famous performances was their concert at The Palace in Hollywood, California, in 1994. The band played to a packed house and delivered a high-energy performance, with Froberg and Reis jumping off the stage to join the audience. This concert cemented the band as one of the best live acts in the genre.
Let's take a look at some of Drive Like Jehu's best songs. Luau is a quintessential song from their debut album and features the band's signature sound of frenzied guitar riffs backed by driving rhythms. Another favorite is Super Unison, a standout track from Yank Crime that showcases their technical skills and Froberg’s vocal range. Here Come The Rome Plows is also a song that fans rave about, with its memorable, garage-inspired guitar riff.
Drive Like Jehu's sound was unique, mixing elements of punk, hardcore, and rock. It helped shape the post-hardcore genre in the 90s, influencing many bands that followed. Their music also had a profound impact on the members' later projects. Reis went on to form Hot Snakes, while Froberg formed Obits, both bands that carried on Drive Like Jehu's legacy.
As for critics, Pitchfork described Drive Like Jehu’s music as exhilarating, pointing out their exceptional chemistry, intricate song structures, and historical importance. The New York Times called them one of the most influential underground rock acts to come out of Southern California.
Drive Like Jehu will always hold a special place in the post-hardcore genre, their music inspiring countless followers and shaping the future of the genre. Their unique sound, live performances, and critically acclaimed albums have cemented their legacy as one of the most iconic and influential bands of the 90s.