The Sonics

Formed in Tacoma, Washington, in 1960, The Sonics are widely regarded as the pioneers of garage rock and a foundational influence on the punk and grunge movements. Led by the "white Little Richard" howling vocals of Gerry Roslie and the aggressive guitar work of Larry Parypa, the band’s classic lineup—including Rob Lind, Andy Parypa, and Bob Bennett—gained legendary status with raw, high-decibel hits like "The Witch," "Psycho," and "Strychnine". Their 1965 debut, Here Are The Sonics, remains a cult masterpiece for its distorted sound and unrefined energy, influencing iconic artists such as Nirvana, Bruce Springsteen, and The White Stripes. After decades of hiatus, the band experienced a triumphant resurgence starting in 2007, culminating in the 2015 release of This Is The Sonics, their first studio album of new material in nearly 50 years. As of 2026, the band remains an active "legacy" act; despite the passing of original drummer Bob Bennett in February 2025, The Sonics continue to perform, with scheduled appearances including Little Steven’s Underground Garage Cruise in April 2026.