Saturday July 25

HOLY ROLLERS

HAMMERED HULLS

THE OWNERS

Doors at 7:30

Holy Rollers formed in Washington, DC, in 1989. Drawing inspiration from bands such as MC5, Fugazi, Scream, Jefferson Airplane, and Wire, the group developed a sound that blended punk, post-hardcore, melody, and experimentation. Known for alternating lead vocals and three-part harmonies, Holy Rollers took a different approach from many of their contemporaries in the DC scene. While often associated with the post-hardcore movement that emerged from Washington, DC, in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Holy Rollers drew from a broader range of influences than many of their peers. The band's songs combined layered vocal arrangements, shifting dynamics, and unconventional song structures with punk's energy and directness, resulting in a sound that was difficult to place within any single category. Alternative Press described the band as sounding like "Fugazi filtered through the Soft Boys." During their original run, Holy Rollers released three albums and an EP on Dischord Records, toured throughout North America and Europe, and shared stages with bands including Fugazi, Sonic Youth, Red Kross, Jawbox, and NoMeansNo. The band was also a frequent participant in Positive Force benefits and other community-oriented events that were part of the DC punk landscape at the time. After disbanding in 1995, the members pursued other projects and careers. In June 2025, Holy Rollers reunited for Positive Force's 40th Anniversary celebration. What was intended as a one-time performance evolved into an ongoing project. The current lineup features founding members Joey Aronstamn and Marc Lambiotte alongside drummer Ed Trask (Avail, Kepone) and bassist Graham McCulloch (Negative Approach), who joined the band in 2026.