The Joneses — Cassette

Intro

The Joneses sound like the bridge between the 1970s New York glam-punk scene and the 1980s Los Angeles gutter-rock explosion. It is music that feels lived-in, slightly dangerous, and perpetually dressed in black leather. The guitars carry a loose, swinging swagger that owes as much to Chuck Berry as it does to the Sex Pistols, creating a sound that is catchy but never polished.

What truly sets them apart is their ability to blend the raw aggression of hardcore-era California punk with a sophisticated sense of rock and roll history. While their peers were getting faster and more abrasive, The Joneses leaned into the 'sleaze' factor, incorporating rockabilly rhythms and bluesy leads. This creates a distinctive 'junkie-chic' aesthetic that feels authentic rather than performative.

Start with the compilation 'Criminal History.' It captures the band's evolution from their early single 'Criminals in My Car' through their mid-80s peak. It is the definitive document of a band that was often voted the best live act in L.A. but remained a cult secret to the rest of the world.

The Joneses were a punk band from Anaheim, Southern California. In 1981 guitarist and singer Jeff Drake and professional skateboarder Steve Olson formed its nucleus, but over the years the Joneses included numerous players with Drake being the only constant member. The incarnation of the Joneses voted "Best Live Band" in the 1984 L.A. Weekly Reader's Poll included, in addition to Drake, Scott Franklin (The Cramps), Paul Mars Black (L.A. Guns) & Johnnie Sage (The Mau Maus).

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Our Catalog1 Album · 1986

Keeping up with the Joneses

1986

Known For

Adjacent Artists

Loose Lips

Shares punk rock, garage rock, rockabilly (subgenres); rebellious, confident, playful (moods)

Forgotten Boys

Shares lo fi, analog warmth, live recording (production style); dive bar, basement show, urban night (atmosphere)