Andrew Jackson Jihad

Andrew Jackson Jihad
The Mohawk
Austin, Texas

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Mohawk’s sold-out inside stage was crowded with patrons eager to hear the folk punk band, Andrew Jackson Jihad. Many of the songs were short, without too much development, and the band’s lyrics decry our consumer culture and injustices. The songs were also filled with regret and self-loathing. The blunt accusations and confessions seemed to resonate with many in the audience. The sound of the band was very raw, taking traditional folk instruments and elements and distorting them. All of the songs had simple chord progressions and simpler rhythms, but the band’s greatness lies in the energy, lyrics, and ability to articulate a wide range to their audience.

After a long sound check, the show began with Sean Bonnette, the lead singer and guitarist, accompanied by a double bass. The songs relied on Bonnette’s aggressive yet melodic vocals and the rhythmic strumming of the string instruments. One of the first songs performed was “People II 2: Still Peoplin,’” in which Bonnette states, “You’re an irreplaceable human soul / With your own understanding of what it means to suffer / And that’s a huge bummer.” This folk-esque song got the whole crowd singing along and raising their fists. A few songs into the set, a banjo guitar player was added to the line-up. At this point, the band played their hit, “American Tune.” The chorus sardonically proclaims, “I’m a straight, white male in America! I’ve got all the luck I need.” This song reflects on the injustices within our culture. In between songs, Bonnette was extremely humble and appreciative of the large audience and vociferous approval after each song. The other band members were charismatic, and at many points their informal joking made the performance seem more like watching a practice than a concert. This added to the band’s charm.

For the last few songs, the band brought up a drummer and switched the acoustic instruments for electric guitars and basses. The sound became much more like a conventional punk band. The drummer was extremely aggressive, and, due to the change in energy of the band, the audience began jumping around and bumping into each other. At one point during a song, the band stopped in order to settle down the crowd. The full band played “Sad Songs (Intermission)” in which Bonnette describes a mentor who recommends to Bonnette “Just write a love song / ‘Cause they’ll keep your belly full and your wallet lined / Don’t bother these nice people with your sad sack songs / If you ask me, I think they’re just a waste of time.” This country-influenced track was a catchy crowd favorite. One of the last few songs, and my personal favorite, was “Hate Rain On Me.” The melody of this song is particularly comely, and the guitar riffs are alluring and interesting. This tune was also an audience favorite.

Andrew Jackson Jihad’s set here in Austin, Texas was long and wonderful. The band was able to connect with the audience both with their charming personalities and lyrics full of bitter truth. The evening was diverse due to the changing instrumentation, and the audience got a full range of the band’s talents and musical styles. Andrew Jackson Jihad’s varied songs provided the concert-goers with raw and strong music that was memorable for its energy and drive.

by Hunter Tolbert