Archive for Jawbox

On Tyranny: Indie-Rock Legend J. Robbins Says Techno Fascism Isn’t ‘Inevitable,’ Resistance Can Win

Posted in Interviews with tags , , , , , , , , , on 05/25/2026 by Kurt Orzeck

Among those who belong on indie-rock’s Mount Rushmore, J. Robbins – Jawbox frontman, hardcore godfather and one of the most prolific rock producers of all time – is an undeniable front-runner. Respected by all and disliked by none, the workaholic legend graciously carved out some time to participate in The Bad Penny‘s On Tyranny series.

He touched on what a bummer it is to share the same birthday as Donald Trump; how tech bros are aiding and abetting – if not puppeteering – the fascist takeover of America; and, in true hardcore DIY fashion, reminded musicians and fans alike that the war can be won if we empower ourselves to rise up and topple those terrorizing this country.

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Memento: Jawbox Letter Proves They Were the Truest ‘Sweethearts’ of ’90s Indie Rock

Posted in Essays, Exclusives, Features, Mementos with tags , , , on 10/27/2025 by Kurt Orzeck

For a band that titled arguably its best album For Your Own Special Sweetheart (1994), Jawbox may themselves be the sweetest post-hardcore band of the ’90s.

On the fateful Friday night of Nov. 22 in 1996, excitement for the weekend got into the heads of three students – including yours truly – and ousted any semblance of logic as punishment. When we learned that the J. Robbins-led Jawbox had plans to play a gig at Mabel’s in Champaign, a city located two hours south of Chicago.

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