Artist: Drive Like Jehu Album: Drive Like Jehu

Year: 1991
Duration: 45:0-1

A Critical Review of Drive Like Jehu’s Album: Drive Like Jehu

You’re in for a treat if you love post-hardcore punk rock from the early 90s, especially one of the pioneers of the genre - Drive Like Jehu. They made some of the most memorable songs that are still played today, and their album, Drive Like Jehu, is no exception. In this blog post, we will delve into this iconic album and provide you with a brief history of the band, an overview of the album, the standout tracks, innovative parts, and critics.

Drive Like Jehu was formed in San Diego in 1990 by John Reis (vocals and guitar), Rick Froberg (vocals and guitar), Mike Kennedy (drums) and Mike Rourke (bass guitar). They released their self-titled album ‘Drive Like Jehu’ in 1991, which caught the attention of the punk-rock audience. The album was distinctive from other punk rock music due to the band's style of post-hardcore punk and Froberg’s chirpy and sharp vocals.

Drive Like Jehu has only seven tracks, but each one packs a punch. The album starts with “Caress”, which is a seven-minute-long track that sets the tone for what's about to come. It's a perfect balance of volume, energy, and harmony. Following “Caress,” “Spikes to You” is another standout track of the album that showcases the driving guitar riffs the band is known for. The song is intense and emotional, with Reis’s guitar solos and Kennedy’s drums making it standout.

The highlight of the album is “Luau,” which is the band's most popular track. It's so powerful and well-written that people still cover it today. It has a darker tone than the other tracks, and the lyrics deal with themes of regret and missed opportunities.

The album's most innovative part is in “Sinews,” where one momentous and layered note begins chased by guitars and drums that are out of control. The breakdown in the middle of the song is an extensive moment and intense.

Critics love Drive Like Jehu. The New York Times called them one of the most important ingredients in the evolution of punk-rock to post-…, and Entertainment Weekly said they're The quintessential hard-rocking band of the '90s.

The album's only flaw is that it sounds a bit raw and unfinished, but this is also where its beauty lies. It's hard to say if the music would have been better if it was better produced, but it certainly wouldn't have captured the underground punk-rock essence that it has.

Drive Like Jehu’s album Drive Like Jehu is a classic that stands the test of time. The members of the band all bring something special to the table that makes their music unique. This album is a must-listen for any punk rocker or anyone interested in alternative and post-hardcore rock. Drive Like Jehu's has become timeless, with each track showcasing their raw talent. From the opening track to the ending, Drive Like Jehu leaves listeners wanting more and shows why they have become a revered name in the music industry.