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The Sonics

From HitStory, the pop encyclopedia of School of Rock · Artist

The Sonics are an American garage rock band from Tacoma, Washington, started in 1960 by the teenage guitarist Larry Parypa. At first it was an instrumental group, with his brother Andy on bass. The well-known line-up took shape when Gerry Roslie joined on keyboards, together with the drummer Bob Bennett and the saxophonist Rob Lind. They really got going in 1964, when Roslie took over the vocals. They played at local venues such as the Red Carpet and Olympia's Skateland.

Music and breakthrough

The group played rock standards such as Louie Louie and Skinny Minnie, but also original songs such as Strychnine, Psycho and The Witch. Their albums included Here Are The Sonics!!! from 1965, Merry Christmas in the same year, Boom from 1966 and Introducing the Sonics from 1967. This Is the Sonics followed in 2015.

Influence

The Sonics' music is hard, raw and fast. The songs revolve around simple chords played with a speed and a tonal aggression that were new at the time. As a result they became an important influence on later punk bands, such as the Stooges and the Cramps. The White Stripes, Nirvana and The Hives have also cited them as an inspiration. In School of Rock they stand at the roots of garage rock.

Listening

Listening tip. Listen to Psycho and notice the screaming vocals and the heavy, distorted guitars. Can you hear how little the song needs: a few chords and a lot of energy?

Discography

Studio albums

Mentioned in other articles

Categories: ArtistsGarage rock