Biography
Hot Snakes formed in 1999 as a high-energy side project in San Diego, California. Founders Rick Froberg and John Reis helped fuse post-hardcore with indie rock and garage punk, creating a lean, riff-driven sound that’s both urgent and memorable. The band’s ties to notable acts and labels—like Pitchfork connections and Drive Like Jehu—helped drive a dedicated fanbase. The group’s dynamics have evolved over the years, producing a critically acclaimed catalog that resonates with fans of fast, tight rock.
Discography Highlights
Jericho Sirens (2018, Sub Pop) stands as the band’s most recent studio album, followed by earlier releases that helped define their signature sound: Audit in Progress (2004, Swami), Suicide Invoice (2002, Swami), and Automatic Midnight (2000, Swami). Audit in Progress earned the Best Punk Album at the 2005 San Diego Music Awards, cementing their status in the local scene. Tracks like “This Mystic Decade” gained wider recognition by appearing on Grand Theft Auto V’s Vinewood Boulevard Radio, while “Time to Escape” lined up with Tony Hawk’s American Wasteland soundtrack, showcasing the band’s broad cultural reach.
Current Activity & Tour Status
As of early 2026, there hasn’t been public confirmation of a new tour schedule following Rick Froberg’s passing in 2023, which affected the band’s traditional lineup. We’ll keep you posted with any official updates or newly announced dates. In the meantime, you can explore their catalog on official channels and continue to follow their legacy through live performances and archival releases.
Social & Official Links
Official site: hotsnakes.com
Bandcamp: hotsnakes.bandcamp.com
Sub Pop artist page: Sub Pop - Hot Snakes