Image: JWB on Facebook
JOHN WILKES BOOTH (the band) is a stoner dirt rock band out of New York, citing influences from the likes of KYUSS, CLUTCH, FU MANCHU, MELVINS, and even JANE’S ADDICITON. The band formed in 2005, released a self-titled album in 2006 (the tracks “The Inner Workings” & “Only the Facts” were featured on the compilation ‘Fumes from a Dead Scene‘ in 2007), then released ‘Sic Semper Tyrannis’ in the summer of 2008.
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The band has played a pile of live shows over the years, while continually growing their local fan base. In 2007, JWB was chosen as a featured band on FatCat Radio and was selected as band of the week on Joe’s Podhole. In June of that year, they were voted by listeners as band of the month on local radio station, Radiox. In May of 2008, Aural Fix, a Long Island magazine covering the local music scene, featured the band on the front cover.
Image: JWB on Facebook
With a sound “that draws largely from punk and stoner rock with just a small smattering of metal” this eclectic quartet deems their brand of sinewy rhythms and bong-fueled jams “Dirt Rock.” The band abides by a strict “no-pay-to-play” policy, refusing to financially compensate venues in order to be added to the bill. The band has toured up and down the east coast with such national acts as THE HIDDEN HAND, LA OTRACINA, ZOROASTER, PUNY HUMAN, SOLACE, LO PAN, and WRECKETH.
‘Sic Semper Tyrannis’ is definitely a good, solid, stoner rockin’ good time. You can check out some of the jams below from the band’s ReverbNation page. As far as what the guys are up to, nowadays? Your guess is as good as mine. Doesn’t appear any new material has been in the works, but it looks like they’re still jammin’ out and about around New York for select shows and gigs and whatnot on the strength of ‘Sic Semper Tyrannis.’ If you want to stay in touch with the band, chances appear best for new updates and news on their Facebook page.
JOHN WILKES BOOTH on ReverbNation
