Robert Jon & The Wreck

Biography

Robert Jon & The Wreck is a Southern rock and blues rock band formed in Orange County, California, in 2011. The group quickly made a name for themselves, embarking on a national tour within six months of their formation and self-releasing their debut album, 'Fire Started.' Their early years were marked by a relentless touring schedule and a series of well-received releases, including the EP 'Rhythm of the Road' produced by Warren Huart, and their acclaimed full-length albums 'Glory Bound' and 'Good Life Pie.' The band was recognized as 'Best Live Band' at the 2013 Orange County Music Awards, cementing their reputation for electrifying performances and musical prowess[1][2][3].

Musically, Robert Jon & The Wreck blend the soulful grit of Southern rock with blues, country rock, and modern blues influences. Their sound is characterized by soaring guitar leads, rich vocal harmonies, and memorable songwriting, drawing inspiration from classic acts while forging their own distinct identity. Over the years, the band has undergone lineup changes, with the current members being Robert Jon Burrison (lead vocals/guitar), Andrew Espantman (drums/background vocals), Henry James Schneekluth (lead guitar), Warren Murrel (bass), and Jake Abernathie (keyboards). Their albums, such as 'Last Light on the Highway' and 'Shine a Light on Me Brother,' have received critical acclaim and expanded their international audience[1][2][3].

Legacy-wise, Robert Jon & The Wreck have become a fixture in the modern Southern rock and blues scene, sharing stages with legendary artists like Joe Bonamassa, Peter Frampton, The Black Crowes, and Rival Sons. Their collaborations with Grammy-winning producers and their partnership with Bonamassa's Journeyman Records have further elevated their profile, making them one of the most respected and prolific bands in their genre today[2][3].

Fun Facts

• The band was named 'Best Live Band' at the 2013 Orange County Music Awards just two years after forming.
• Keyboardist Steve Maggiora left the band in 2022 to join the touring lineup of Toto.
• Their single 'Oh Miss Carolina' spent three months on Planet Rock Radio in the UK.
• Robert Jon & The Wreck have played sold-out shows across the US, Europe, Australia, and Japan, sharing stages with legendary acts like The Black Crowes and Little Feat.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Warren Huart - Producer and early collaborator, guiding the band's sound and production (Rhythm of the Road EP, Glory Bound, Good Life Pie) [2013-2016]

Key Collaborators

• Joe Bonamassa - Shared stages and label collaboration; contributed to projects and tours (Journeyman Records releases, Keeping The Blues Alive at Sea Cruise) [2020-present]
• Peter Frampton - Shared festival bills and live performances (Ramblin' Man Fair (UK), Keeping The Blues Alive at Sea Cruise) [2019]
• Band Members - Core creative and performing collaborators (All albums and tours) [2011-present]
• Don Was, Kevin Shirley, Dave Cobb - Grammy-winning producers who worked on 'Ride Into The Light' (Ride Into The Light (2023)) [2023]

Artists Influenced

• Emerging Southern Rock Bands - Inspired by their modern take on Southern rock and blues (Live performances, festival appearances) [2016-present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Dark Angel (Dark Angel)
2. Long Gone (Long Gone)
3. Boss Man (Red Moon Rising (Deluxe Edition))
4. Oh Miss Carolina (Last Light on the Highway)
5. Sittin' Pretty (Sittin' Pretty)
6. Keep Myself Clean (Keep Myself Clean)
7. Heartbreak & Last Goodbye (Heartbreaks & Last Goodbyes)
8. Gold (Last Light on the Highway)
9. I Wanna Give It
10. Hold On (Red Moon Rising)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz