Cap'n Jazz

Cap'n Jazz was an influential American emo and indie rock band formed in Chicago in 1989. Comprised of members Tim Kinsella (vocals), Mike Kinsella (drums), Sam Zurick (guitar), Victor Villarreal (guitar), and Davey von Bohlen (bass), the band's eclectic and energetic sound played a significant role in shaping the emo and alternative music scenes of the 1990s.

Despite a relatively short-lived existence, Cap'n Jazz released one full-length album, "Burritos, Inspiration Point, Fork Balloon Sports, Cards in the Spokes, Automatic Biographies, Kites, Kung Fu, Trophies, Banana Peels We've Slipped On and Egg Shells We've Tippy Toed Over" (often referred to simply as "Shmap'n Shmazz"), in 1995. The album, characterized by its raw energy, frenetic guitar work, and emotionally charged lyrics, is considered a seminal release in the emo genre, influencing countless bands in the years to come.

Cap'n Jazz's music was defined by its unconventional song structures, frenzied guitar riffs, and impassioned vocals, which alternated between spoken word passages and explosive screams. Their lyrics often explored themes of adolescence, identity, and personal struggle, resonating with listeners who identified with the band's raw emotional intensity and DIY ethos.

Despite their relatively short tenure as a band, Cap'n Jazz's influence continued to grow in the years following their breakup. Members went on to form or join other notable bands within the emo and indie rock scenes, including Joan of Arc, American Football, Owen, and The Promise Ring, further solidifying their impact on alternative music.

In 2010, Cap'n Jazz briefly reunited for a series of reunion shows, much to the delight of their dedicated fanbase. The reunion tour, which included performances at music festivals such as Primavera Sound and Riot Fest, introduced their music to a new generation of listeners and reaffirmed their status as pioneers of the emo genre. Despite their limited discography, Cap'n Jazz's influence on alternative music remains enduring, with their legacy continuing to inspire and resonate with fans of emotive and unconventional rock music.