Skeletons From Their Past: A Raw Rock Gem That Still Kicks
Alright, let’s talk about Skeletons From Their Past by Jonee Earthquake Band. Released back in 2001 on Spiral Records, this album is a gritty mashup of punk and surf rock vibes that hits like a rogue wave at a beach party. It’s not perfect—heck, it doesn’t even try to be—but that raw energy is exactly what makes it stick.
First off, you’ve got “Model Citizen,” the opening track, which kicks things off with some serious attitude. Joe Kelley lays down the bassline here while Ray SpOnge smashes the drums like he’s trying to wake up his neighbors (in a good way). The guitar work from Jonee Earthquake feels like someone lit a fire under his fingers—it’s sharp, snarly, and impossible to ignore. This song just grabs you by the collar and says, “Listen up!” You can tell they weren’t sweating over perfection; instead, it’s all about vibe. And honestly? That’s why I remember it. It’s messy but magnetic, like your favorite old t-shirt.
Then there’s “Stompbox,” where things get extra wild. Doug Trout takes over drum duties, and Jeff Hapgood brings the bass groove so hard it almost feels illegal. There’s something hypnotic about how the whole thing builds up—it’s like waiting for fireworks on the Fourth of July. When Jonee’s vocals come in, it’s pure swagger. Terry Parkinson sprinkles piano and organ into the mix too, giving it this weirdly cinematic edge, like you’re scoring the soundtrack to your own rebellious little movie. Honestly, every time I hear this one, I wanna grab an air guitar and go full rock star mode in my living room. (Apologies to my cat.)
Oh, and we can’t skip mentioning “Garbage.” Not gonna lie, it’s kind of hilarious how unapologetically trashy it feels—not in a bad way, though. More like the band decided to channel their inner dumpster-diving punk spirits. It’s chaotic, loud, and oddly catchy, kinda like finding treasure in a thrift store bin.
Looking back, what really stands out about Skeletons From Their Past is its refusal to take itself too seriously. These guys clearly had fun making this record, and that comes through loud and clear. Sure, the production might feel a bit lo-fi compared to today’s polished stuff, but who cares? Sometimes music needs to sound like it was made in someone’s garage to remind us why we fell in love with rock ‘n’ roll in the first place.
Final thought? Listening to this album feels like hanging out with old friends who always bring the good stories—and maybe a six-pack. If you dig punk and surf rock with zero chill, do yourself a favor and give it a spin. Just don’t blame me if you start air-drumming in public.
(Also, side note: whoever named themselves "Ray SpOnge" deserves a medal.)
