If you’re a fan of folk punk music, then you’ve likely come across the unique and raw sounds of AJJ (Andrew Jackson Jihad). This genre blends the heartfelt storytelling of folk with the rebellious spirit of punk. If you’re looking to expand your playlist, here are 18 bands and artists similar to AJJ that you should definitely check out. Explore AJJ on YouTube.
1. The Mountain Goats
The Mountain Goats are known for their lo-fi sound and deeply personal lyrics. Popular songs include “This Year” and “No Children,” and their album All Hail West Texas is a fan favorite.
2. Defiance, Ohio
Defiance, Ohio brings a DIY ethic to their energetic folk punk music. Notable tracks are “Oh, Susquehanna!” and “I’m Against the Government,” with the album The Great Depression standing out.
3. The Front Bottoms
The Front Bottoms mix indie rock with folk punk, featuring catchy melodies and introspective lyrics. Songs like “Twin Size Mattress” and “Flashlight” from their self-titled album have garnered a dedicated following.
4. Ramshackle Glory
Ramshackle Glory, led by Pat “the Bunny” Schneeweis, offers anthems of struggle and hope. Tracks such as “Your Heart is a Muscle the Size of Your Fist” and “More About Alcoholism” from Live the Dream are particularly impactful.
5. Harley Poe
Harley Poe blends horror themes with folk punk, creating a unique and spooky sound. “Corpse Grinding Man” and “Transvestites Can Be Cannibals Too” from the album Satan, Sex and No Regrets are standout tracks.
6. Mischief Brew
Mischief Brew combines folk, punk, and anarchist themes in their music. Songs like “Roll Me Through the Gates of Hell” and “Thanks, Bastards!” from Songs from Under the Sink are essential listens.
7. Ghost Mice
Ghost Mice delivers heartfelt, acoustic folk punk with a positive message. Tracks such as “Up the Punks” and “Free Pizza for Life” from Europe are fan favorites.
8. Pat the Bunny
Pat the Bunny, formerly of Ramshackle Glory and Wingnut Dishwashers Union, creates deeply personal and political folk punk. “I’m Going Home” and “We Don’t Get Tired, We Get Even” are must-listens.
9. Rvivr
Rvivr mixes punk rock with emotional and political lyrics, often addressing social issues. Notable tracks include “Cut the Cord” and “Wrong Way/One Way” from their self-titled album.
10. Wingnut Dishwashers Union
Wingnut Dishwashers Union, another project by Pat “the Bunny,” offers raw and passionate folk punk. Songs like “Proudhon in Manhattan” and “Fuck Shit Up!” from Burn the Earth! Leave it Behind! are powerful.
11. Days N’ Daze
Days N’ Daze is known for their high-energy performances and DIY ethos. Popular tracks include “Misanthropic Drunken Loner” and “Post Party Depression” from the album Rogue Taxidermy.
12. Johnny Hobo and the Freight Trains
Johnny Hobo and the Freight Trains offer raw, acoustic punk with themes of rebellion and despair. “New Mexico Song” and “Whiskey is My Kind of Lullaby” are standout tracks.
13. AJJ (Andrew Jackson Jihad)
AJJ, formerly Andrew Jackson Jihad, is known for their quirky lyrics and folk punk sound. Songs like “People II: The Reckoning” and “Big Bird” from Knife Man are essential.
14. Frank Turner
Frank Turner blends folk, punk, and rock, with a focus on storytelling. Notable songs include “Photosynthesis” and “I Still Believe” from the album Love Ire & Song.
15. Paul Baribeau
Paul Baribeau delivers intimate, acoustic folk punk with heartfelt lyrics. Tracks like “Christmas Lights” and “Ten Things” from his self-titled album are beloved by fans.
16. This Bike is a Pipe Bomb
This Bike is a Pipe Bomb offers politically charged folk punk with a DIY spirit. Songs like “The Black Panther Song” and “Body Count” from Front Seat Solidarity are notable.
17. Kimya Dawson
Kimya Dawson’s music blends folk, punk, and anti-folk with deeply personal lyrics. Tracks like “Tire Swing” and “Loose Lips” from Remember That I Love You are particularly moving.
18. The Taxpayers
The Taxpayers mix punk rock with jazz and folk influences, creating a unique sound. Popular tracks include “I Love You Like an Alcoholic” and “Some Kind of Disaster Relief” from God, Forgive These Bastards.