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Key Information

John Reis, also known by the pseudonyms Speedo, Slasher, and the Swami is an American musician, singer, guitarist, record label owner, and disc jockey. He is best known as the singer and guitarist for the rock band Rocket from the Crypt, which he formed and fronted (as Speedo) for the entirety of its career from 1990 to 2005.

Prior to this he was the guitarist in the post-hardcore band Pitchfork, and also played in Drive Like Jehu during the early 1990s. In 1999 he formed the Hot Snakes, and in 2000 also formed the Sultans, in which (as Slasher) he sang and originally played bass before switching to rhythm guitar. He played in both these bands until their breakups in 2005 and 2007 respectively. He also released a solo recording under the name Back Off Cupids, which was recorded in 1994 but not released until 1999. Over the years he has performed in many other musical acts including Conservative Itch, Stacatto Reads, Custom Floor, and Beehive & the Barracudas.

He is the owner of Swami Records, a label he founded in 1999 (he uses the title the Swami in this capacity). He frequently works with bands in a studio capacity and releases albums by many southern California groups through his label. He also hosts the "Swami Sound System" program (previously on San Diego radio station 94.9 (KBZT),[1] and now available on Slacker Radio[2]). Reis remains an influential figure in the San Diego underground music community and is currently performing with San Diego bands the Night Marchers and PLOSIVS, with Rob Crow.[3][4]

Musical career

[edit]
John Reis (foreground) performing with Drive Like Jehu and organist Dr. Carol Williams in 2014

Reis became involved in music in 1984, playing in a punk rock band called Conservative Itch at age 15. In 1986 he formed the post-hardcore group Pitchfork with friend Rick Froberg, in which he played until the group's dissolution in 1990. Following this he formed two new bands: Drive Like Jehu included Froberg and was the more experimental, exploring styles such as post-punk, post-hardcore, math rock, and early-1990s emo. Rocket from the Crypt, meanwhile, was envisioned as a more back-to-basics rock band and involved other San Diego-area musicians. Both groups released debut albums in 1991 through local labels Cargo Records and Headhunter Records. Rocket from the Crypt was soon re-invented as a punk-inspired rock & roll band with a horn section, developing a reputation for creative and energetic live shows. The group released many vinyl singles and put out their second album Circa: Now! in 1992. Reis' heavy involvement with Rocket from the Crypt sidelined Drive Like Jehu at this time, but both groups were soon signed to major label Interscope Records as a pair.

In 1994 Rocket from the Crypt took a six-month break while Reis returned to work with Drive Like Jehu, recording the critically acclaimed album Yank Crime. At this time he also recorded an album's worth of solo material under the project name Back Off Cupids, but the majority of this work went unreleased until 1999. In 1995, with little fanfare, Drive Like Jehu disbanded and Reis resumed working with Rocket from the Crypt full time. The group experienced a flurry of creativity that resulted in a trilogy of releases that year, culminating in the acclaimed album Scream, Dracula, Scream! They became well known in the alternative music community, filmed several music videos, toured internationally, and experienced a surge of popularity in the United Kingdom. They released a follow-up entitled RFTC in 1998, but Interscope turned their attention to higher-grossing acts and soon the band left the label. This was followed by the departure of longtime drummer Adam Willard from the group in early 2000, resulting in a hiatus of sorts during which Reis explored other musical endeavors.

In 1999 Reis started the record label Swami Records, primarily as a means of releasing music by a number of San Diego-area bands including several he was involved with. He also formed two new bands: Sessions with drummer Jason Kourkounis resulted in the formation of Hot Snakes (which also reunited Reis with Rick Froberg), while collaborations with drummer Tony Di Prima led to the formation of the Sultans. Both bands essentially explored stripped-down versions of the musical formulas Reis had established in Rocket from the Crypt, with Hot Snakes incorporating some of the more experimental elements of Drive Like Jehu while the Sultans used a more straightforward rock & roll approach. During this time Reis recorded and acted as producer for a number of groups, including Superchunk, Selby Tigers, GoGoGo Airheart, and the Red Onions. He also performed on and off with other bands including Stacatto Reads, Custom Floor, and Beehive and the Barracudas.

Rocket from the Crypt regrouped in 2000, signing to Vagrant Records and bringing in new drummer Mario Rubalcaba. Reis continued to record and perform with Rocket from the Crypt, Hot Snakes, and the Sultans for the next several years, dividing his time between all three groups. Between 1999 and 2005 he recorded 2 albums with Rocket from the Crypt, 2 with the Sultans, and 3 with Hot Snakes. In 2003 his younger brother Dean Reis joined him in the Sultans. Rubalcaba also became a member of all three of Reis' bands, replacing Kourkounis in Hot Snakes in 2004 and Di Prima in the Sultans in 2006.

Reis performing with the Sultans in 2007

2005 marked the end of Reis' multi-band involvement, with the breakups of Hot Snakes in July and Rocket from the Crypt on Halloween. He then focused his attention on Swami Records, putting out numerous releases that Fall and Winter and organizing tours in support of the label. He began hosting the "Swami Sound System" program on San Diego radio station 94.9 (KBZT) and continued to play with the Sultans occasionally until their disbanding in January 2007.

Recent activity

[edit]

Reis continues to operate Swami Records and acts as a producer and occasional studio musician for various artists and releases on the label, while focusing on his new role as a father. He constructed his own recording studio and opened a bar called The Bar Pink Elephant (later renamed Bar Pink) in San Diego's North Park district. In 2007 he announced a new musical project, and began recording and writing new songs with former Hot Snakes members Gar Wood and Jason Kourkounis and CPC Gangbangs bassist Tommy Kitsos. Reis described the new group as "a combonation [sic] of everything I've been a part of dating back to my prepubescent days in Pitchfork. Similar to Hot Snakes but not as sinister yet still maintaining some of the drama and subsonic boom. Akin to the rockin' fun of RFTC but without the same kind of riffery. Like the Sultans but not as straightforward yet still maintaining the sense of melody and pop of the 2nd record."[5][6][7][8] Dubbed the Night Marchers, the new group began performing and touring in 2008 with Reis again using the stage name "Speedo". Their debut album See You in Magic was released on April 22, 2008.

Reis continues to host the "Swami Sound System" program on San Diego radio station 94.9 on Saturday nights and is preparing several releases of rare and previously unreleased Rocket from the Crypt material.[5] He also plays a recurring role on the television show Yo Gabba Gabba! as the Music Swami, introducing each episode's musical guest.

In 2011 Hot Snakes announced they will be reforming for tours the US and Europe.[9]

In 2015, Reis produced American rock band Ceremony's fifth studio album, The L-Shaped Man.[10]

In March 2015, Vintage Piss was released by Sonny Vincent and Rocket from the Crypt. The album was originally recorded with Vincent in 2003 following a tour with Rocket from the Crypt serving as his backing band however the album was left unmixed and unfinished until twelve years later following the reunion of Rocket from the Crypt when Reis decided to go back and complete the album, which he also produced.[11]

On 9/8/21 he made his debut with Me First and the Gimme Gimmes at Express Live! in Columbus, OH performing with CJ Ramone, Andrew "Pinch" Pinching, Jonny "2 Bags" Wickersham and Spike Slawson.

Personal life

[edit]

Reis is married. He and his wife had their first child, a son, in 2006.[12][13]

Influence

[edit]

Many artists have cited John Reis as an influence or have expressed admiration for his work, including Jim Adkins of Jimmy Eat World,[14] Kurt Ballou of Converge,[15] Laurent Barnard of Gallows[16] and Steven Andrew Miller of Unbroken.[17] According to Doug McCombs of Tortoise-fame:[18]

John Reis fills a void. It's a cynical world and there aren't many true believers in rock & roll anymore. He's the carnival barker that lures you into rock & roll. He believes in rock & roll wholeheartedly and wants you to believe too. He's a genius at guitar riffs. He's evidence that rock & roll is not played out.

Membership timeline

[edit]

Discography

[edit]

This section lists albums and EPs on which Reis has performed. For complete listings of releases by each act, see their individual articles.

Year Act Title Credits
1989 Pitchfork Saturn Outhouse guitar
1990 Eucalyptus
1991 Drive Like Jehu Drive Like Jehu guitar, backing vocals
Rocket from the Crypt Paint as a Fragrance guitar, lead vocals
1992 Circa: Now!
1994 Drive Like Jehu Yank Crime guitar, backing vocals
1995 Rocket from the Crypt The State of Art is on Fire guitar, lead vocals
Hot Charity
Scream, Dracula, Scream!
1998 RFTC
1999 Cut Carefully and Play Loud
2000 Hot Snakes Automatic Midnight guitar, backing vocals
Back Off Cupids Back Off Cupids vocals, guitar, bass guitar, drums, other instrumentation
Sultans Sultans bass guitar, lead vocals
Ghost Ship
2001 Rocket from the Crypt Group Sounds guitar, lead vocals
2002 Hot Snakes Suicide Invoice guitar, backing vocals
Rocket from the Crypt Live from Camp X-Ray guitar, lead vocals
2004 Sultans Shipwrecked
Hot Snakes Audit in Progress guitar, backing vocals
2005 Peel Sessions
2006 Thunder Down Under
2008 Rocket from the Crypt RIP guitar, lead vocals
The Night Marchers See You in Magic
2013 The Night Marchers Allez Allez guitar, lead vocals
2015 Swami John Reis & the Blind Shake Modern Surf Classics guitar
Sonny Vincent and Rocket from the Crypt Vintage Piss guitar, vocals, producer
2018 Hot Snakes Jericho Sirens guitar, backing vocals
2022 Swami John Reis Ride the Wild Night guitar, vocals, bass, percussion, synth
Plosivs Plosivs guitar, vocals
2024 Swami John Reis All Of This Awaits You guitar, vocals
2025 Swami John Reis Time To Let You Down guitar, vocals

References

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John Reis

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John Reis (born April 23, 1969) is an American , , , , and label owner best known as the frontman of the influential band under the stage name . A native of San Diego's Ocean Beach neighborhood, Reis has been a central figure in the city's underground , , and scenes since the late 1980s, shaping its sound through his raw energy, prolific output, and collaborative spirit. Over four decades, he has fronted or contributed to numerous bands, including , , The Night Marchers, and The Sultans, while also producing albums for other artists and hosting radio shows. Reis began his musical career in his teens, joining the band Conservative Itch at age 15 before co-founding in the mid-1980s with longtime collaborator . His breakthrough came with , a outfit that released two seminal albums in the early , blending angular guitars and emotive vocals to influence the and genres. Parallel to this, Reis formed in 1989, where he served as lead singer and guitarist, delivering high-octane performances augmented by a on albums like Circa: Now! (1992) and Scream, Dracula, Scream! (1995), which earned critical acclaim for revitalizing with garage and soul elements. In the 2000s, following hiatuses in his main projects, Reis launched with Froberg, producing blistering records such as Audit in Progress (2000) and a 2018 comeback album on , noted for their aggressive guitar interplay. He also started The Night Marchers in 2006, a vehicle that released albums on Vagrant and his own Records, and The Sultans with his brother Dean Reis. As Swami John Reis, he founded the Records label in 1999 to support independent acts, engineered tracks at his City of Refuge Studio, and appeared on television in . More recently, Reis joined the band (then known as Me First and the Gimme Gimmes, later rebranded as Spike and the Gimme Gimmes) in 2021 and formed Plosivs with , releasing their debut album in 2022 and announcing their second album, Yell at Cloud, in November 2025. Reis's enduring impact was recognized with his 2025 induction into the Music Hall of Fame, honoring his role as a "scene-shaper" whose work has resonated globally while remaining rooted in local DIY ethos. His aliases—Speedo, , and Slasher—reflect his multifaceted persona, from energetic performer to behind-the-scenes innovator.

Early life

Childhood in San Diego

John Reis was born in 1969 in Ocean Beach, a coastal neighborhood in , . Growing up in this beachy environment, he spent much of his early years enjoying the ocean and local , which characterized the "endless summers" of his childhood. His family supported his budding interests, as evidenced by his parents purchasing him a Kay Effector and with a built-in for Christmas during . Reis's early musical exposure began in elementary school with mainstream rock acts like KISS, whom he saw perform live with his parents during fourth through sixth grade. By early seventh grade, he shifted toward punk rock, becoming intensely dedicated to the genre despite limited access to records, which he sought through zines like Maximum Rock 'n' Roll and Flipside, as well as tape trading with pen pals. This period coincided with San Diego's burgeoning 1980s punk and hardcore scene, marked by high energy but also violence at shows, such as brawls during performances by bands like The Vandals and Scream; Reis later reflected on how these experiences normalized the intensity for young attendees. He drew particular inspiration from regional compilations on Mystic Records, an Oceanside-based label known for featuring dozens of punk bands, which fueled his "ravenous" pursuit of the music. As a teenager, Reis distanced himself from the dominant beach and jock culture, embracing punk and as a form of that fostered an "us against them" mindset. His younger brother, Dean Reis, would later share similar musical interests, though details of their early family dynamics remain private. This foundational period in laid the groundwork for his self-taught guitar skills, learned primarily through simple punk songs rather than formal training.

Education and initial musical exposure

John Reis attended the San Diego School of Creative and , a magnet high school focused on arts education, during his sophomore year in the early 1980s. Born in 1969, Reis entered high school amid 's burgeoning punk scene, which provided a vibrant backdrop for his emerging interests. Reis began learning guitar in seventh grade around 1981, receiving a Effector electric guitar as a Christmas gift and teaching himself by ear from punk records due to limited access to formal instruction or . He briefly took lessons in eighth grade but found them restrictive, preferring to experiment with simple chord progressions inspired by punk's raw energy. By ninth grade, he had shifted toward more structured playing techniques while continuing to self-educate on . During high school, Reis's exposure to punk rock deepened through bands like Black Flag and the , whose albums he sought out despite scarcity in local stores, fueling his passion for the genre's DIY ethos and aggressive guitar styles. He drew specific influences from guitarists such as of Black Flag and of the , initially assuming their riffs were improvised, which encouraged his own improvisational approach. At school, Reis participated in informal music activities, carrying an acoustic guitar daily and even wearing a button offering to play original songs for a dollar to classmates, while recording early compositions on a cassette recorder.

Early career

Formation of first bands

John Reis entered the San Diego music scene in the mid-1980s as a teenager immersed in the local community. At age 15, he joined and helped form his first band, Conservative Itch, around 1985, a outfit that retained strong punk influences while incorporating more rocking elements. This group emerged amid the DIY ethos of the era, where young musicians relied on grassroots efforts to create opportunities in a city with limited formal venues for punk acts. Conservative Itch represented Reis's initial foray into band leadership, drawing from the raw energy of early hardcore but experimenting with structure and sound. The punk scene in the mid-1980s was marked by significant challenges, including widespread violence at shows that deterred many participants and stifled growth. Audience aggression and chaotic environments in established clubs prompted Reis and other like-minded individuals to seek alternatives, fostering a shift toward all-ages, community-driven events. Reis contributed to this by participating in shows with local bands such as Sub-Society, , PG-13, and Socially Insecure, which emphasized self-promotion through flyers, word-of-mouth, and makeshift spaces. These efforts highlighted the DIY principle of autonomy, where bands handled everything from booking to equipment without external support, navigating restrictions on underage performers and venue access. Reis's earliest live performances with Conservative Itch and these collectives occurred in informal settings like house parties, community centers, and emerging all-ages spots, embodying the scene's emphasis on accessibility over commercial viability. While no formal recordings from Conservative Itch survive in wide release, the band's shows captured the unpolished intensity of San Diego's hardcore roots, influencing Reis's approach to music as a communal against the era's constraints.

Involvement with Pitchfork

Pitchfork was formed in 1986 in , , marking one of the earliest significant musical endeavors for guitarist . The band was co-founded by Reis alongside vocalist (also known as Rick Farr or Rick Fork), bassist Don Ankrom, and drummer Joey Piro, with Nick Frederick later replacing Ankrom on bass in 1989. This lineup emerged from the vibrant local punk scene, where Reis and Froberg first connected at events like the 1986 Mariner’s Point Anarchy Picnic, fostering a creative partnership that would define much of their subsequent work. The band's musical style fused the raw aggression of with experimental and eclectic elements, characterized by jagged guitar riffs, off-kilter melodies, and dynamic shifts that pushed beyond conventional punk structures. Reis's spiky, angular guitar work, often layered with contributions, combined with Froberg's intense, emotive vocals to create a sound that was both visceral and innovative, contributing to the evolving aesthetic in . Their sole full-length album, , captured this blend, featuring tracks like "Burn Pigs, Burn" and "Placebo" that showcased terse, explosive energy alongside more atmospheric explorations. Recorded in 1988 at Radio Tokyo Studios and released in 1990 on Nemesis Records, the album ran approximately 42 minutes and was later reissued in 2003 by Records with additional material from the Saturn Outhouse EP. Pitchfork disbanded around 1990, shortly after Eucalyptus's release, as members pursued diverging paths amid the band's intense creative demands. Despite its short lifespan, the group left a lasting mark on San Diego's scene by pioneering an eclectic punk-rock approach that emphasized harmonic complexity and rhythmic dexterity, influencing the region's landscape and helping to solidify its reputation for innovative hardcore variants.

Major band leadership

Drive Like Jehu

Drive Like Jehu was formed in 1990 in , , by guitarist John Reis and vocalist/guitarist , who transitioned from their previous band to create a new project blending intensity with experimental elements. Reis, taking on duties, recruited bassist Mike Kennedy and drummer to round out the lineup, establishing a that provided a solid foundation for the band's aggressive yet intricate sound. This formation marked a pivotal shift for Reis, allowing him to explore more angular and dynamic guitar work while co-leading the creative direction alongside Froberg. The band's debut self-titled album, released in 1991 on and Headhunter Records, introduced their signature style of jagged, interlocking guitar riffs and abrupt tempo changes, drawing influences from pioneers while maintaining a raw edge. Following a deal with —secured as part of a package with Reis's other band—they issued their second and final full-length, , in 1994, which amplified these traits with longer, more labyrinthine compositions featuring explosive dynamic shifts from whispered verses to chaotic crescendos. Reis's contributions as and co-producer were central to the album's textural depth, emphasizing off-kilter rhythms and dissonant harmonies that influenced subsequent waves of and acts. Drive Like Jehu's music was defined by its innovative fusion of complexity and ferocity, characterized by Reis's precise, angular riffs that intertwined with Froberg's visceral vocals to create a sense of controlled chaos and emotional urgency. Tracks like "Luau" exemplified their approach, building tension through polyrhythmic interplay and sudden volume swells that kept listeners off-balance. Despite critical acclaim for this groundbreaking sound, the band entered an indefinite hiatus in 1995 after exhaustive touring for , citing burnout and frustrations with Interscope's limited promotion and support, which left the commercially overlooked.

Rocket from the Crypt

was formed in late 1989 or early 1990 in , , by John Reis as his primary musical project following the breakup of his previous band, . Reis, performing under the stage name , took on lead vocals and guitar duties, assembling an initial lineup that included drummer Sean Flynn and backing vocalist Elaina Torres. By 1991, the band solidified with the addition of drummer Adam "Atom" Willard, who provided a steady backbone to their , alongside saxophonist Paul "Apollo 9" O'Beirne and other members contributing to the growing . This configuration marked as Reis's longest-running endeavor, distinct from his concurrent work with , though both shared his angular guitar style. The band's signature sound blended high-octane with soulful R&B and garage influences, prominently featuring brass instruments for an explosive, party-like energy that set them apart in the punk scene. Live performances under Reis's persona were theatrical spectacles, complete with matching uniforms, choreographed antics, and relentless enthusiasm, fostering a through their emphasis on communal fun over . Key releases captured this ethos: their debut Paint as a Fragrance in 1991 on Headhunter Records established their raw, aggressive punk foundation, while Circa: Now! in 1992 on the same label expanded their profile with horn-driven tracks that attracted major-label interest from Interscope. A 1996 reissue of Paint as a Fragrance on Headhunter further sustained momentum, alongside albums like Scream, Dracula, Scream! (1995, Interscope) and (2001, ), the latter representing their most polished and commercially viable effort amid a return to indie roots after Interscope fallout. After over a decade of touring and recording, entered a hiatus in 2005 following a sold-out farewell show on Halloween in , capping their original run amid shifting music industry dynamics. The band has since pursued sporadic reunions, including brief European outings, but the 2005 pause allowed members like Reis to explore other ventures.

Post-hiatus projects

Hot Snakes

formed in 1999 as a for John Reis, who enlisted vocalist and guitarist —their third major collaboration following and —alongside bassist Gar Wood and drummer Jason Kourkounis. The band's debut full-length album, Automatic Midnight, arrived in 2000 via Reis's Swami Records imprint, establishing their signature sound of taut, propulsive built on interlocking guitar riffs and Froberg's urgent, yelping delivery. This was followed by Suicide Invoice in 2002 on , which refined their no-nonsense approach with tracks emphasizing relentless rhythm and raw energy. The group released their third album, Audit in Progress, in 2004 back on Swami Records, further solidifying their reputation for stripped-down, high-tension rock that prioritized visceral impact over embellishment. disbanded in 2005 after a prolific run of recordings and tours, allowing members to pursue other endeavors. The band reunited in for select live performances, including festival appearances that captured the frenetic intensity of their early shows, and maintained a focus on touring as a core element of their revival. In 2018, returned with Jericho Sirens on Records, their first new material in 14 years, which echoed the angular aggression of their initial output while incorporating subtle evolutions in dissonance and mood. The album's release spurred extensive touring, where the band's live sets—marked by blistering tempos and unyielding stage presence—reinforced their status as stalwarts. remained active, including further touring, until Froberg's death on July 25, 2023. This period also aligned with a broader resurgence of interest in Reis and Froberg's earlier work, evoking the raw reunion energy seen in Drive Like Jehu's earlier reunion.

Night Marchers and side projects

Following the hiatus of his previous bands, John Reis formed the Night Marchers in 2007 as a collaborative outlet with longtime associates from the punk scene. The lineup featured Reis on lead vocals and guitar, Gar Wood on , Jason Kourkounis on drums, and Tommy Kitsos on bass, drawing from Reis's prior work with to emphasize a raw, guitar-centric sound. Reis described the project as a way to sustain creative partnerships without rigid commitments, allowing for spontaneous songwriting rooted in 'n' roll, , and influences from 1960s-1970s Turkish . The band's debut album, See You in Magic, arrived in 2008 via a co-release on and Reis's independent Records label, capturing a steely, energetic garage punk aesthetic with crystalline guitar tones and driving rhythms. Produced with a focus on live-band immediacy, the record highlighted Reis's versatility in blending punchy hooks with psychedelic edges, as heard in tracks like "All Hits" and "Closed for Inventory." Night Marchers maintained a DIY through Swami, prioritizing self-managed releases and direct engagement with fans over extensive promotion, which aligned with Reis's broader independent approach to music distribution. By 2013, the group followed up with Allez Allez!, fully issued on Swami Records, which expanded their sound into more experimental garage territory while retaining high-energy performances and psychedelic flourishes. The album's production emphasized raw, unpolished recording techniques to evoke a live feel, with songs like "Loud Dumb & Mean" showcasing Reis's snarling vocals and interlocking guitar riffs. Touring remained selective, with short runs including festival appearances like to build grassroots momentum without overcommitting to grueling schedules. Beyond Night Marchers, Reis pursued sporadic side collaborations that underscored his commitment to punk's underground spirit, including contributions to revival efforts inspired by acts and one-off projects, often handled through DIY channels on . These endeavors reinforced his role as a versatile figure in , favoring intimate productions and regional tours over mainstream exposure.

Production and business ventures

Founding Swami Records

In 1999, John Reis founded Swami Records as an based in , , with a focus on supporting local punk and acts from the underground scene. The label emerged as an entrepreneurial extension of Reis's musical career, providing a platform for bands aligned with his and sensibilities, including his own projects. The first release, ' debut album Automatic Midnight in 2000, set the tone for Swami's catalog by emphasizing raw energy and DIY ethos. Swami Records quickly built a reputation through key releases from Reis-associated bands, such as ' Suicide Invoice (2002) and Audit in Progress (2000, reissued), which captured the group's tense, angular sound. Night Marchers, another Reis-led outfit, contributed albums like See You in (2008) and Allez! Allez! (2013), blending surf-punk influences with high-octane rhythms. Compilations further highlighted the label's roots, including the Hardcore Matinee San Diego Compilation LP, which showcased regional punk talent and reinforced Swami's role in preserving local . The label's prioritizes and physical formats, particularly vinyl, while integrating merchandise like T-shirts and apparel through its online store to sustain operations. Described by Reis as a creative outlet driven by instinct rather than corporate structures, maintains an artist-friendly approach by offering control over releases and avoiding exploitative contracts common in major labels. Into the , the label evolved to include alongside vinyl pressings, as seen in the 2022 digital release of Reis's solo album Ride the Wild Night under his John Reis moniker. By 2025, had amassed around 100 releases and planned six new ones that year, adapting to streaming while upholding its punk-centric, vinyl-first identity, including the release of Time to Let You Down by John Reis.

Production and engineering credits

John Reis has been actively involved in music production and engineering since the early , initially focusing on his own projects before expanding to collaborate with a wide array of punk, indie, and rock acts. His early production credits include several albums by his band , such as the 1995 release Scream, Dracula, Scream!, where he served as producer and conductor, helping to shape the group's signature high-energy sound. These self-produced efforts laid the foundation for his behind-the-scenes role, emphasizing hands-on involvement in capturing the raw intensity of live performances. Reis's production and engineering style is characterized by a raw, energetic approach that prioritizes natural tones and the unpolished vitality of band dynamics, often evoking the immediacy of a without excessive studio gloss. This aesthetic is evident in his work with established acts like , for whom he co-produced the 1993 album alongside Custom Floor, delivering a punchy, urgent vibe that influenced the band's raw edge. Other notable credits include and mixing for The Primals' 2018 debut All Love Is True Love, where his contributions enhanced the garage-punk drive of the tracks. He has also worked on releases by bands such as The , , and Mrs. Magician, applying his technique to amplify their gritty, high-octane performances. In addition to full-length albums, Reis has contributed to reissues of his earlier projects, including Drive Like Jehu's catalog updates. His portfolio extends to compilations, particularly those supporting charitable causes, where he has produced tracks to benefit organizations like orphanages. By 2025, Reis's production and engineering output exceeds 50 projects, spanning punk staples and indie outliers through platforms like Swami Records.

Personal life

Family and relationships

John Reis has maintained a long-term residence in the neighborhood of , where he has lived with his family for many years. Born and raised in the nearby Ocean Beach area of , Reis has deep roots in the city's coastal communities. Reis is married and has kept much of his family life private, though he has publicly noted having a son born in 2006, who is now an adult and occasionally attends local music events such as shows at the Ché Café. Fatherhood has influenced his approach to work-life balance, prompting him to scale back on extensive touring to prioritize time at home. Beyond his immediate family, Reis has described his longtime bandmates and collaborators as an , forged through decades of shared creative experiences and mutual support. For instance, his with the late , which began in 1986, evolved into a profound bond that extended far beyond their musical partnerships, with Reis reflecting on ongoing emotional connections even after Froberg's passing in 2023. Outside of music, Reis is an avid vinyl record collector, a passion documented in the 2015 film Records Collecting Dust, where he discusses the personal significance of his collection and its role in shaping his appreciation for underground music history. He has also engaged in local community efforts in , reflecting his commitment to the neighborhoods that have been central to his life.

Philanthropic efforts

John Reis has been actively involved in philanthropic initiatives centered on supporting and community causes in , leveraging his role as founder of Swami Records to amplify local efforts. In 2016, he curated and produced the compilation album Hardcore Matinée, featuring 22 San Diego punk and rock bands, with all proceeds directed to fund the music program at The Museum School, a tuition-free emphasizing arts education where his son was a student. This project highlighted Reis's commitment to preserving and promoting amid budget constraints in public schools, drawing contributions from notable local acts such as The Schizophonics and Mrs. Magician to create a high-energy punk retrospective that doubled as a tool. Reis's production expertise ensured the album's raw, authentic sound, aligning with the DIY ethos of the participating artists while directing funds specifically toward instruments, lessons, and program expansion at the school. Reis extended his support for San Diego's music education landscape through performances at benefit concerts, including a 2019 event titled "This Includes You!" at The Museum School, where he joined Pinback, El Ten Eleven, Rob Crow, and The Color Forty-Nine to raise funds for the school's special education program. These efforts underscore his ongoing dedication to community nonprofits, particularly those fostering access to music for underserved youth in the region. By 2025, Reis continued to champion local music venues and education initiatives through Swami Records releases and live appearances that occasionally tie into charitable causes, reinforcing his role in sustaining San Diego's vibrant indie and punk scenes. Reis has also participated in benefit shows addressing health-related challenges within the music community, such as a 2018 memorial concert for vocalist Jon Bunch, who struggled with issues leading to his death, where Reis contributed performances to support related awareness and aid efforts.

Legacy and influence

Impact on punk and indie scenes

John Reis played a pivotal role in defining San Diego's "South Bay" sound during the 1990s post-hardcore era, particularly through his work with , where his hard-charging guitar riffs and collaborative songwriting with helped establish a distinctive blend of angular, noise-driven rock that characterized the region's identity. This sound emerged from the South Bay's DIY venues and emphasized raw intensity over polished production, influencing the local scene's shift toward more experimental expressions. Reis's angular guitar work, marked by dissonant riffs and feedback-heavy textures, extended his influence to subsequent acts, with bands like citing as a core inspiration for their own frenetic, math-rock-infused style. Similarly, his contributions to the genre's evolution resonated in groups drawing from the same angular, rhythmically complex punk traditions, reinforcing a lineage of innovative guitar-driven aggression in indie and circles. Through founding Swami Records in 1999, Reis championed DIY ethics by independently releasing albums for emerging punk and indie artists, ensuring grassroots distribution and creative control outside major label constraints. His commitment to all-ages venues like San Diego's Ché Cafe and high-energy live performances with bands such as —featuring theatrical elements like uniforms and fire-breathing—fostered community-driven punk revival, prioritizing accessibility and unfiltered excitement over commercial polish. Critics have praised Reis for injecting renewed energy and innovation into the punk revival, with Drive Like Jehu hailed as one of the era's most inventive punk outfits for transforming angst into shimmering, emotive cascades through their eclectic style. His relentless output across projects like Hot Snakes and Rocket from the Crypt earned acclaim for revitalizing post-hardcore's abrasive edge, blending punk's raw power with sophisticated, noise-infused experimentation that sustained the genre's vitality into the 2000s.

Awards and recognitions

John Reis has received several accolades throughout his career, primarily recognizing his contributions to the punk and scenes through his bands, especially . In the 1990s, garnered multiple nominations and wins at the San Diego Music Awards, highlighting their prominence in the local alternative music landscape. For instance, the band was nominated for Best in 1992. They went on to win the Best Alternative category in the 8th annual awards (1998), the 9th annual awards (1999), and the 12th annual awards (2002), affirming their status as a leading force in San Diego's community. Additionally, in 1996, received the Philip Hall Radar Award at the , an honor given to promising up-and-coming acts, which boosted their international visibility and led to performances on shows like . Reis has also been recognized by peers through features in influential punk documentaries that pay tribute to his role in shaping . He appears in the 2014 film Records Collecting Dust, which explores vinyl collections and the cultural impact of punk icons, including interviews with Reis alongside figures like and . Similarly, the 2014 documentary It's Gonna Blow: San Diego's Music Scene highlights Reis's contributions to the city's explosive punk and movements, with commentary from him underscoring the DIY ethos of bands like and . These appearances serve as informal tributes to his enduring influence within punk circles. In 2025, Reis was inducted into the San Diego Music Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2025, alongside artists like and Kamau Kenyatta. The induction, held on September 27 at Vision: A Center for Spiritual Living, celebrated his lifetime contributions as a guitarist, vocalist, songwriter, and label owner, particularly through bands such as , , and , which helped define 's indie and punk legacy. This honor represents a capstone to his career, acknowledging his role in fostering the local music scene over four decades.

Recent activities

2020s musical output

In the early 2020s, extended their reunion momentum from the 2018 album Jericho Sirens with the release of a new single, "I Shall Be Free," in February 2020, accompanied by an animated video directed by Reis's son, Tiger Reis. The band embarked on a U.S. tour from February 22 to March 12, 2020, supporting the single and drawing from their catalog, but the abruptly halted performances mid-tour, forcing a pivot away from live shows. Amid the disruptions, Reis adapted by emphasizing studio work and through Swami Records, releasing music directly to streaming platforms to maintain output during lockdowns. The Night Marchers, Reis's garage-punk outfit formed in 2007, followed their 2018 album Beautiful Diarrhea with a limited 7-inch single, "Wot's Da Use" b/w "Dosed," issued on January 29, 2021, via Swami Records, with tracks made available on major streaming services. This release marked the band's primary musical activity in the early decade, reflecting Reis's continued commitment to raw, high-energy recordings amid the challenges of the pandemic era. No full-length albums or extensive tours followed in the immediate years, as Reis shifted focus to other projects. By 2023–2024, Reis launched a new band, and the Bed of Nails, evolving from his solo John Reis moniker that debuted during the with the 2020 single "Ride the Wild Night" b/w "I Hate My Neighbors in " and the 2022 Ride the Wild Night. Featuring Reis on guitar and vocals alongside Tommy Kitsos on bass, Joe Guevara on piano and organ, and Jason Kourkounis on drums, among others, the group released their debut 7-inch single "How Are You Peeling?" exclusively during a spring 2024 U.S. tour starting March 19 in . Their first full , All of This Awaits You, arrived on August 2, 2024, via Swami Records, blending punk urgency with eclectic instrumentation. Live performances proliferated, including a U.S. tour in March–April 2024, a and run in September 2024, and ongoing shows into 2025, such as at Soda Bar in on April 11. In March 2025, Reis released his second solo album as Swami John Reis, Time to Let You Down, on March 21 via Swami Records. The 11-track garage punk LP features contributions from collaborators like Jason Sinclair and Joey Guevara, continuing his raw, high-energy style with themes of punk persistence.

2025 San Diego Music Hall of Fame induction

John Reis was inducted into the San Diego Music Hall of Fame on September 27, 2025, during the organization's seventh annual ceremony held at Vision: A Center for Spiritual Living in Mission Valley. The event, hosted by organizer Jefferson Jay, featured a sold-out crowd and performances by inductees and guests, recognizing Reis alongside honorees including Rosie Flores, Kamau Kenyatta, Bob Magnusson, The Dinettes, Bart Mendoza, and Eulogio “The Soul Man” Fos. The induction specifically honored Reis's pivotal role in shaping San Diego's punk and scenes through his leadership in bands such as , , and , as well as his founding of Swami Records, which has released over 100 albums and supported local artists. His contributions extended to production on more than two dozen albums and advocacy for the city's DIY ethos, including co-founding the all-ages Ché Cafe in the 1980s. During the ceremony, performer tributes included a special set by The Fooks, who honored Reis's legacy with renditions tied to his catalog. Reis delivered an acceptance speech described as memorable and heartfelt, concluding the segment with reflections on his journey; in pre-event comments, he expressed humility, joking, “I think I should be in the Hall of Fame of Confusion,” while emphasizing gratitude toward collaborators like the late . Media coverage highlighted the induction's significance, building on earlier recognitions of Reis's influence. A March 19, 2025, interview in The Guardian captured his career reflections, where he discussed the relentless energy of his bands—“We said yes to everything!”—and the San Diego scene's role as a creative refuge, crediting it for fostering over 25 albums across 35 years. Outlets like the San Diego Union-Tribune and Times of San Diego also covered the event, underscoring its celebration of community-driven music history.

Band affiliations

Membership timeline

John Reis's musical career spans over four decades, marked by his involvement in numerous influential punk, , and bands, often overlapping multiple projects simultaneously. The following timeline outlines his primary band memberships chronologically, highlighting periods of activity, formations, and notable hiatuses or reunions based on verified formation and disbandment dates from reputable databases and artist profiles.
PeriodBand/ProjectRoleNotes
1984–1985Conservative ItchGuitaristEarly hardcore punk band formed during Reis's high school years in San Diego; short-lived precursor to his later projects.
1986–1990PitchforkGuitaristPost-hardcore band co-founded with Rick Froberg; released debut album Eucalyptus in 1988 before disbanding.
1989–2005, 2011–presentRocket from the CryptGuitarist, lead vocals (as Speedo)Formed by Reis in San Diego; active through seven studio albums until initial breakup; sporadic reunions and tours since 2011, including ongoing activity as of 2025. Overlapped with Drive Like Jehu and later projects.
1990–1995, 2014–2016Drive Like JehuGuitaristPost-hardcore band co-founded with Froberg post-Pitchfork; released albums Drive Like Jehu (1991) and Yank Crime (1994); brief reunion for live performances and recordings.
1994Back Off CupidsAll instruments, vocalsSolo instrumental project; one-off recording sessions leading to a self-titled album released in 2000.
1999–2005, 2011–2023Hot SnakesGuitaristPost-hardcore band co-led with Froberg; released three albums before 2005 disbandment; reunited for tours and Jericho Sirens (2018); activity ceased following Froberg's death in 2023. Overlapped with Sultans and Rocket from the Crypt.
2000–2007SultansGuitarist, vocals (as Slasher; initially bassist)Garage punk band; released two albums; disbanded after final release Ghosts Are Everywhere (2007).
2006–presentNight MarchersGuitarist, lead vocalsGarage rock band formed post-Hot Snakes breakup; released albums including See You in the Shadows (2008) and Allez Allez (2013); ongoing with tours as of 2025.
2020–presentPLOSIVSGuitaristIndie rock supergroup with Rob Crow, Atom Willard, and Jordan Clark; self-titled debut album in 2022; active with live performances.
2023–presentSwami and the Bed of NailsGuitarist, vocalsNew rock band under Reis's Swami moniker; debuted with album All of This Awaits You in 2024; touring in 2025.

Complete list of collaborations

John Reis has engaged in a wide array of musical collaborations outside his foundational bands, encompassing early punk and hardcore outfits from the , side projects, guest spots, and production roles that underscore his influence in the indie and punk scenes. These efforts, often through his Swami Records label and studios like City of Refuge and Drag Racist, have resulted in involvement with over 20 distinct projects by 2025, where he has served as guitarist, vocalist, producer, or engineer.
  • Conservative Itch (guitarist, mid-1980s): Reis's first band, a San Diego hardcore group formed when he was a teenager.
  • Pitchfork (guitarist, 1986–1990): Early post-hardcore band co-founded with Rick Froberg, influencing San Diego's punk sound.
  • Stacatto Reads (member, late 1980s): Short-lived punk project during Reis's formative years.
  • Custom Floor (producer, 1990s): Produced their album Clear Day (1993).
  • Back Off Cupids (member, 1990s): Experimental punk group.
  • Hot Snakes (guitarist and co-founder, 1999–2005, reunited 2011–2023): Post-hardcore outfit with Rick Froberg, known for tense, angular riffs.
  • Sultans (vocalist as "Slasher," 2000–2007, reunited 2010): Garage rock band emphasizing raw energy.
  • The Night Marchers (vocalist and guitarist, 2005–present): Power trio project blending punk and surf elements.
  • Swami John Reis & The Blind Shake (guitarist and collaborator, 2015): Surf-punk album collaboration with the Minneapolis trio.
  • Metz & John Reis (collaborator, 2016): Guest appearance on a split single with the noise-rock band Metz.
  • Plosivs (guitarist, 2020–present): Supergroup with Rob Crow, Atom Willard, and Jordan Clark, releasing a self-titled album in 2022.
  • Me First and the Gimme Gimmes (guitarist, 2021–present): Punk covers band featuring multiple San Diego scene veterans.
  • Swami And The Bed Of Nails (vocalist and guitarist, 2024–present): Rock-oriented project with Jason Kourkounis on drums, debuting with All Of This Awaits You.
  • Swami John Reis (solo artist, ongoing): Released album Time to Let You Down in March 2025 on Swami Records, featuring contributions from Jason Sinclair (Hot Snakes) and others.
  • Fishwife (producer, 1990s–2000s): Engineered sessions for this punk band at his studios.
  • Superchunk (producer/engineer, 1990s): Contributed to recordings for the indie rock act.
  • The Husbands (producer/engineer, 2000s): Recorded at Drag Racist Studio.
  • Sonny Vincent (producer/engineer, 2000s): Handled production for the punk veteran's albums at Drag Racist.
  • The Computers (producer/engineer, 2010s): Sessions at City of Refuge for the UK punk band.
  • The Widows (producer/engineer, 2010s): Produced tracks at City of Refuge.
  • Ceremony (producer/engineer, 2010s): Worked on recordings for the post-punk group at City of Refuge.
  • The Black Lips (producer, 2010s): Engineered sessions for the garage rock band.
  • Mrs. Magician (producer, 2010s): Produced albums for this San Diego indie group via Swami Records.

Discography

Albums with Drive Like Jehu

Drive Like Jehu's self-titled debut album, released in 1991 on Headhunter Records, established the band's signature sound characterized by angular riffs, erratic rhythms, and intense vocal delivery from . Key tracks include the frenetic opener "Caress," the sprawling "Atom Jack," and the seven-minute closer "If It Kills You," which builds to a chaotic crescendo. The album received critical acclaim for its raw production and innovative elements, earning a 4.0 rating on for its influential role in 1990s , though some tracks like the nine-minute "O Pencil Sharp" were noted as less engaging. The band's second and final studio album, Yank Crime, arrived in 1994 via Interscope Records, produced by band member Mark Trombino, and featured longer, more ambitious compositions that pushed the boundaries of math rock and emo influences. Standout tracks encompass the feedback-laden "Do You Compute," the epic nine-and-a-half-minute "Luau" with its shifting structures and communal chants, and the dynamic "Here Come the Rome Plows," which alternates between tense verses and explosive choruses. No singles were commercially released from the album, but it garnered widespread praise for its genre-bending intensity and emotional depth, with Pitchfork describing it in 2003 as an "improbably good album" that solidified its place in the indie rock canon. Sputnikmusic highlighted its innovative, influential qualities, rating it highly for compositions played with "reckless abandon." Following the band's 1995 hiatus, was reissued in 2002 on Swami Records, John Reis's own label, including bonus tracks such as the 1992 single "Bullet Train to Vegas"/"Hand Over Fist" and an alternate version of "Sinews," enhancing its accessibility and cult status. The self-titled debut saw vinyl reissues through Headhunter Records in later years, preserving its raw aesthetic for new audiences. Neither album achieved mainstream chart success, but both have been retrospectively celebrated for their enduring impact on , with often ranked among the genre's seminal works.

Albums with Rocket from the Crypt

Rocket from the Crypt's discography is notable for its prolific output during the , encompassing a mix of full-length studio albums, EPs, and an extensive collection of singles that highlighted the band's raw punk energy and DIY ethos. Formed in 1990, the group released material independently before signing with major labels, resulting in a catalog that blends garage punk, , and influences across more than a dozen main releases by the early . Their recordings often featured high-energy tracks with horn sections and gang vocals, produced primarily by band members or local collaborators.

Early Releases

The band's initial output established their underground reputation with lo-fi, high-octane punk records issued on independent labels. Their debut studio , Paint as a Fragrance, arrived in 1991 via Headhunter Records, capturing the group's formative sound with tracks like "Friendly Intercourse" and emphasizing fast-paced riffs and John Reis's distinctive guitar work. This was followed by Circa: Now! in 1992, also on Headhunter (later reissued by Interscope), which expanded their style with more structured songs and introduced recurring themes of rock 'n' roll revivalism, solidifying their presence in the punk scene. These early efforts, limited to small runs, showcased the band's commitment to vinyl formats and contributed to their following.

Major Label Era

Transitioning to broader distribution in the mid-1990s, signed with Interscope and Elemental Records, producing some of their most polished yet aggressive albums. Scream, , Scream! (1995) marked a commercial peak, featuring hits like "On a Rope" and incorporating elements for a fuller sound, while earning critical praise for its infectious energy. That same year, Hot Charity emerged as a shorter, intense collection on Perfect Sound Forever, bridging their indie roots with major-label production and tracks emphasizing lyrical wit and rhythmic drive. The era continued with RFTC in 1998, a self-titled effort on Interscope that stripped back some orchestration for raw power, including singles like "Break It Up" that charted modestly on alternative radio. Culminating in Group Sounds (2001) via , this album refined their formula with anthemic choruses and guest appearances, though it preceded the band's initial hiatus amid label shifts.

Post-Hiatus Releases

After disbanding in 2005, Rocket from the Crypt sporadically reunited for live performances and archival projects, releasing material that preserved their legacy without new studio work. Live from Camp X-Ray (2006), a double live album on Vagrant, documented a 2002 performance at San Diego's Casbah, capturing the band's onstage chaos with extended sets of fan favorites and emphasizing their enduring live prowess. The compilation All Systems Go 3 followed in 2008 via Swami Records (founded by John Reis), compiling 20 previously unreleased tracks from 1994–2000 recorded in their practice space, offering a raw glimpse into their creative process and unrestrained punk experimentation. No full studio albums emerged from later reunions in 2011–2012 or ongoing tours through the 2020s, though a 2015 collaboration with Sonny Vincent, Vintage Piss, featured the band backing the veteran punk artist on tracks blending their styles. In October 2025, Swami Records reissued the "Plays The Music Machine" 7-inch single in standard 7-inch format. As of November 2025, the group remains active primarily through live shows, with their catalog reissued periodically on vinyl by labels like Swami.

Singles, EPs, and Compilations

Rocket from the Crypt's extends far beyond albums, with over 25 singles—mostly 7-inch vinyl releases—issued between 1991 and 2000, often in limited editions with unique artwork or splits with other bands, underscoring their punk tradition of collectible formats. Notable singles include "On a Rope" (1996, ) and "Born in '69" (1995, ), which gained airplay and video rotation on . EPs like The State of Art Is on Fire (1995, Sympathy for the Record Industry) added variety with punk covers and originals, while compilations such as All Systems Go (1993, Headhunter) and All Systems Go 2 (1999, ) gathered B-sides and rarities, totaling over 50 tracks across the series and highlighting the band's vast unreleased material. This extensive singles and EP output, produced in part by Reis via , amplified their influence in indie and punk circles through sheer volume and accessibility.
CategoryTitleYearLabelNotes
Studio AlbumPaint as a Fragrance1991HeadhunterDebut full-length
Studio AlbumCirca: Now!1992Headhunter/InterscopeReissued 1993
Studio AlbumScream, Dracula, Scream!1995Interscope/Major label breakthrough
Studio AlbumHot Charity1995Perfect Sound ForeverCompact album (8 tracks)
Studio AlbumRFTC1998InterscopeSelf-titled
Studio Album2001VagrantFinal pre-hiatus studio release
Live AlbumLive from 2006VagrantDouble live set from 2002
CompilationAll Systems Go 32008Unreleased tracks 1994–2000
EPThe State of Art Is on Fire1995Sympathy for the Record Industry10" vinyl edition

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  103. https://newnoisemagazine.com/interviews/interview-john-reis-plays-by-his-own-rules/
  104. https://swami-records.myshopify.com/products/swami-john-reis-time-to-let-you-down-lp-swa-163
  105. https://www.discogs.com/artist/262323-John-Reis?type=Credits&subtype=Productions
  106. https://www.discogs.com/master/46588-Drive-Like-Jehu-Drive-Like-Jehu
  107. https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/45520/Drive-Like-Jehu-Drive-Like-Jehu/
  108. https://www.discogs.com/master/46594-Drive-Like-Jehu-Yank-Crime
  109. https://www.sputnikmusic.com/review/11062/Drive-Like-Jehu-Yank-Crime/
  110. https://www.allmusic.com/album/rftc-mw0000599141
  111. https://www.discogs.com/release/4443153-Rocket-From-The-Crypt-Live-From-Camp-X-Ray
  112. https://www.instagram.com/p/DPytqWXDfYC/
  113. https://www.rftc.com/
  114. https://www.discogs.com/artist/257896-Rocket-From-The-Crypt?type=Releases&subtype=Singles-EPs&filter_anv=0
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