Clutch

Clutch was formed in 1991 in Germantown, Maryland, by bassist Dan Maines, drummer Jean-Paul Gaster, lead guitarist Tim Sult, and lead vocalist Roger Smalls. The band initially used the names Glut Trip and Moral Minority before settling on Clutch, influenced by their interest in cars and the trend of single-syllable band names. Roger Smalls was soon replaced by Neil Fallon, a longtime schoolmate of the other members. The band quickly gained recognition through extensive touring, leading to their first commercial release, the 12″ single “Passive Restraints” on the Earache label. This initial attention from labels led to the release of their debut LP, “Transnational Speedway League,” through EastWest Records in 1993.

The self-titled album, “Clutch,” released in May 1995, brought the band mainstream exposure. However, an internal change at EastWest Records resulted in Clutch being dropped from the label shortly after this release. The band subsequently signed with the larger Columbia label for their 1998 album, “The Elephant Riders.” In 1999, they self-released the groove-based album “Jam Room.” Their 2001 album, “Pure Rock Fury,” released by Atlantic Records, produced a surprise hit single with “Careful with That Mic,” followed by other well-received tracks like “Immortal” and “Open Up the Border.” In 2003, Clutch released a live album, “Live at the Googolplex,” and a rarities collection titled “Slow Hole to China.”

Their commercial and critical success continued with “Blast Tyrant” in 2004, released on DRT Entertainment, which generated significant rock radio airplay and heavy rotation for the single “The Mob Goes Wild.” The accompanying music video, directed by Bam Margera and featuring the “Viva La Bam” cast, further increased their visibility. In 2005, the band welcomed organist Mick Schauer, who contributed to “Robot Hive/Exodus” (2005) and “From Beale Street to Oblivion” (2007). Since 2008, Clutch has operated under their own record label, Weathermaker Music, demonstrating their commitment to independent music production. Their eleventh studio album, “Psychic Warfare,” released in 2015, debuted at No. 11 on the Billboard 200, showcasing their ongoing impact.