| Andrew Jackson Jihad | |
|---|---|
Andrew Jackson Jihad |
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| Background information | |
| Also known as | AJJ |
| Origin | Phoenix, Arizona |
| Genres | folk punk, alternative country, Anti-folk, Skate Punk, Acoustic Rock |
| Instruments | Acoustic guitar, stand up bass, occasionally drums, horns and the kazoo (Knife Man, Can't Maintain). |
| Years active | 2004–present |
| Labels | Asian Man, Plan-It-X |
| Associated acts | Cobra Skulls, Mischief Brew, Ghost Mice, Partners in 818, Bomb the Music Industry! |
| Members | |
| Sean Bonnette Ben Gallaty |
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Andrew Jackson Jihad is an American folk punk band from Phoenix, Arizona, formed in 2004.
Contents |
Andrew Jackson Jihad was formed after its original drummer, Justin James White, approached Sean Bonnette and Ben Gallaty, who had just left Rodan (not the Rodan of Kentucky fame) and The Sub-Standards. Since then, many significant Arizona musicians have sat in with the remaining duo of Sean and Ben, including John de la Cruz of Fatigo and Asleep In The Sea's Owen Evans. Kepi Ghoulie of the Groovie Ghoulies whistled for them in a playing of the song "Sense, Sensibility". Dylan Cook of Partners In 818 also plays mandolin regularly with the band. The constantly shifting lineup results in wide-ranging sonic textures both live and on record.[1] Many of their lyrics are overtly political in nature.[2]
Andrew Jackson Jihad has obtained much coverage for their songs about "serial killers, cigarettes, child abuse, and a vengeful Jesus".[3] They were also the subject of controversy in an issue of HeartattaCk regarding their song "Darling, I Love You," which is narrated by a character who "smoke[s] crystal meth" and "laugh[s] at retards."[4]
On April 15, 2006, the band played as part of the 2006 New Times Music Showcase, nominated for Best Americana Band, and won a Best of Phoenix award later that year.[5]
Besides their local shows, where they have become arguably the most prominent representative in Arizona of the DIY ethic, they have also toured in clubs and basements across the Western United States,[6] appearing at such venues as the Knitting Factory in Los Angeles, CA. One show in Kimberly, Idaho saw the band in a cowboy bar.[7]
They released a split with Ghost Mice on Plan-It-X-Records in 2007. Following this, Asian Man Records issued their second full-length album on September 11, 2007.[8][9] Their new album entitled "Knife Man" was released on September 6th to everyone who pre-ordered, and September 20th to the general public, by Asian Man Records.[10]