Claw Hammer

Claw Hammer is an American punk rock band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles in the late 1980s. Here are some facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Years: Claw Hammer was formed in 1987 in Los Angeles, California, by members Jon Wahl (vocals, guitar), Chris Bagarozzi (guitar), Rob Walther (bass), and Bob Lee (drums). The band quickly gained attention for their raw and aggressive sound, drawing influence from punk rock, garage rock, and blues music. Claw Hammer's energetic live performances and DIY ethos endeared them to the local punk scene and helped them establish a loyal following.

2. Musical Style and Influence: Claw Hammer's music is characterized by its loud, frenetic energy, and its gritty, blues-infused punk rock sound. The band's raucous guitar riffs, pounding rhythms, and Wahl's distinctive vocal delivery set them apart from other bands in the underground punk scene. Claw Hammer drew inspiration from a wide range of musical influences, including The Stooges, MC5, and The Gun Club, blending elements of punk, garage, and blues to create their own unique sonic identity.

3. Album Releases and Critical Acclaim: Throughout the 1990s, Claw Hammer released a series of albums and EPs that showcased their dynamic and uncompromising musical vision. Their debut album, "Claw Hammer" (1991), was followed by critically acclaimed releases such as "Pablum" (1992), "Holding On for Dear Life" (1993), and "Q: Are We Not Men? A: We Are NOT Devo" (1994). These albums received praise from music critics for their raw intensity, inventive songwriting, and irreverent sense of humor.

4. Touring and Live Performances: Claw Hammer gained a reputation as a formidable live act through their relentless touring schedule and electrifying performances. The band toured extensively across the United States and Europe, sharing stages with other influential punk and alternative bands of the era. Claw Hammer's live shows were known for their high energy, confrontational attitude, and chaotic stage presence, earning them a dedicated fanbase and a reputation as one of the most exciting bands in the underground punk scene.

5. Legacy: Despite never achieving mainstream commercial success, Claw Hammer left a lasting legacy on the punk rock and alternative music scenes. Their fearless approach to music-making, uncompromising attitude, and fiercely independent spirit inspired countless musicians and bands in the years that followed. Claw Hammer's influence can be heard in the work of subsequent generations of punk and garage rock bands, cementing their status as unsung heroes of the underground music scene.