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Clutch

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Band Timeline

1991

Formation and Early Years

Clutch was formed in 1991 in Germantown, Maryland by Dan Maines (bass), Jean-Paul Gaster (drums), Tim Sult (lead guitar), and Roger Smalls (vocals). The original lineup quickly changed when Smalls departed and was replaced by Neil Fallon, a long-time schoolmate. The band initially went through other names such as Glut Trip and Moral Minority before settling on Clutch, inspired by their interest in cars and the trend of one-syllable band names. Early efforts focused on extensive touring and releasing singles, including their 12" single Passive Restraints.
1993

Debut Album Release: Transnational Speedway League

Clutch released their first full-length album, Transnational Speedway League, through EastWest Records. This album helped the band build a following and establish their presence in the rock scene. Their blend of stoner rock and blues-influenced hard rock began to take shape, gaining attention for its groove-heavy and energetic style. Following this, they released a self-titled album in 1995 that brought them broader exposure.
1995

Mainstream Exposure with Self-Titled Album

The self-titled album Clutch released in 1995 generated mainstream attention for the band. Unfortunately, the band's A&R representative at EastWest Records was fired shortly after the album's release, which led to Clutch being dropped by the label. This disruption marked a challenging period, but the band remained resilient, continuing their work independently and building a dedicated fanbase.
1998-1999

Label Changes and Independent Release

Clutch signed with Columbia Records and released The Elephant Riders in 1998, marking a new phase with a major label. However, the following year the band released Jam Room through their own River Road Records label, reflecting their desire for creative control and independence. Jam Room displayed a more groove-based sound, demonstrating the band's evolving musical style.
2001

Atlantic Records and Breakthrough Single

In 2001, Clutch released Pure Rock Fury on Atlantic Records. This album marked a breakthrough period with the success of singles like "Careful with That Mic," which achieved surprise popularity on American rock radio stations. Additional tracks such as "Immortal" and "Open Up the Border" further gained airplay, raising the band's profile in the rock scene significantly.
2003

Live and Rarities Releases

Clutch released Live at the Googolplex and the rarities compilation Slow Hole to China in 2003. These releases showcased the band's live energy and previously unreleased material, satisfying their growing fanbase and maintaining momentum between studio albums. Such offerings helped sustain interest and demonstrated the band's deep catalog of quality work beyond standard album releases.
2004

Blast Tyrant and Rising Popularity

The 2004 album Blast Tyrant, released through DRT Entertainment, exposed Clutch to a wider audience with increased rock radio airplay. The single "The Mob Goes Wild" and its video, directed by Bam Margera and featuring notable cameo appearances, helped the band reach new fans. Blast Tyrant reinforced Clutch’s reputation for hard-hitting rock with a distinctive groove.
2005-2007

Lineup Change and Continued Creative Output

In 2005, Clutch experienced their first lineup change since the early 1990s, adding Mick Schauer as an organist, who contributed to Robot Hive/Exodus (2005) and From Beale Street to Oblivion (2007). These albums saw collaboration with producer Joe Barresi, known for work with other major rock acts. The inclusion of keyboards expanded the band's sonic range and complexity, further maturing their sound.
2008-2010

Live Album and DVD Releases; Independent Label

Clutch released their first live DVD Full Fathom Five in 2008, showcasing their dynamic stage presence. Around this time, the band also re-released the rarities album Slow Hole to China in a remastered form in 2009. Later in 2009, they released their ninth studio album Strange Cousins from the West on their own label, Weathermaker Music, which they had formed in 2008. By 2010, they also issued Clutch Live at the 9:30, a two-disc DVD set capturing a full live performance, underscoring their commitment to independent production and close fan connection.
2013

Earth Rocker and Peak Chart Success

Clutch released their tenth studio album, Earth Rocker, in 2013 under Weathermaker Music. This album became their highest-charting release to date in the United States, reaching number 15 on the Billboard 200. Earth Rocker was lauded for its focused, energetic sound and marked a peak in the band's commercial and critical success. The album reinforced Clutch’s status as a leading force in American rock.
2015

Psychic Warfare and Continued Recognition

The band's eleventh album, Psychic Warfare, was released in 2015 on Weathermaker Music, climbing even higher on the Billboard 200, peaking at number 11. This album continued to showcase their signature blend of heavy rock and groove with insightful lyrics. That same year, Clutch released a special compilation album La Curandera as part of a breast cancer awareness campaign, demonstrating their involvement in charitable causes while maintaining prolific musical output.
2018

Book of Bad Decisions Release

In 2018, Clutch released their twelfth studio album, Book of Bad Decisions, again on their own Weathermaker Music label. This album saw the band continuing to evolve their music with their distinctive rock style, combining powerful riffs with narrative lyrics. It was met with positive critical reception, further cementing Clutch’s enduring presence in the rock genre over nearly three decades of activity.
2022

Sunrise on Slaughter Beach and Recent Work

Clutch released their thirteenth studio album, Sunrise on Slaughter Beach, in 2022 on Weathermaker Music. This most recent album continued to highlight the band’s consistent dedication to creating heavy, groove-based rock music. The album reflects Clutch’s longevity in the music industry and their ability to maintain relevance and quality through evolving rock landscapes.

Albums

clutch_1st_album
Transnational Speedway League: Anthems, Anecdotes, and Undeniable Truths
11 tracks
1993
clutch_2nd_album
Clutch
13 tracks
1995
clutch_3rd_album
The Elephant Riders
10 tracks
1998
clutch_4th_album
Jam Room
12 tracks
1999
clutch_5th_album
Pure Rock Fury
13 tracks
2001
clutch_6th_album
Blast Tyrant
15 tracks
2004
clutch_7th_album
Robot Hive / Exodus
14 tracks
2005
clutch_8th_album
From Beale Street to Oblivion
12 tracks
2007
clutch_9th_album
Strange Cousins From the West
11 tracks
2009
clutch_10th_album
Earth Rocker
11 tracks
2013
clutch_11th_album
Psychic Warfare
12 tracks
2015
clutch_12th_album
Book of Bad Decisions
15 tracks
2018
clutch_13th_album
Sunrise on Slaughter Beach
9 tracks
2022
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Members

Current

Name
Begin
Occupation

Tim Sult

1990

Guitar

Jean-Paul Gaster

1990

Membranophone

Neil Fallon

1991

Guitar

Keyboard

Lead vocals

Dan Maines

1990

Bass guitar

History

Name
Begin
End
Occupation

Mick Schauer

2005
2008

Keyboard

Roger Smalls

1990
1990

Lead vocals

Story of Clutch

Clutch: A Heavy Metal Odyssey from Maryland

Clutch, the Maryland-bred rock titans, have been churning out heavy riffs and soulful grooves since 1991. Their lineup, a musical powerhouse consisting of Tim Sult (lead guitar), Dan Maines (bass), Jean-Paul Gaster (drums), and Neil Fallon (vocals, rhythm guitar, keyboards), has remained remarkably consistent, giving their sound a signature swagger.

Early Days: A Blast of Heavy Metal from the DMV

Born out of the Germantown, Maryland music scene, Clutch started out as a raw, energetic band under the names Glut Trip and Moral Minority. After a brief stint with vocalist Roger Smalls, Neil Fallon, a familiar face from their Seneca Valley High School days, joined the band. The name "Clutch" was chosen for its bluntness and automotive reference, reflecting the band's shared passion for cars and the one-word trend prevalent in rock band names at the time (think Prong, their early influences).

Building a Legacy: From Local Heroes to International Icons

Clutch's relentless touring quickly solidified their reputation as a live powerhouse. Their unique blend of heavy metal, stoner rock, and blues influences resonated with audiences, catapulting them from Maryland's underground scene to the forefront of the American rock landscape.

Thirteen Albums Strong: A Body of Work That Stands the Test of Time

With thirteen studio albums to their credit, as well as a collection of rarities and live recordings, Clutch have built a formidable catalogue. Since 2008, they've operated under their own label, Weathermaker Music, giving them creative freedom and artistic control over their music.

A Pioneer of Stoner Rock:

Clutch's influence on the stoner rock genre is undeniable. Their thick, psychedelic riffs and soulful vocals have inspired generations of musicians, solidifying their place as pioneers in the heavy music scene.

Clutch's enduring success lies in their unwavering dedication to their craft, their tireless touring schedule, and their ability to create music that is both heavy and soulful. They remain a vital force in the rock world, constantly evolving their sound while staying true to their roots.

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