The Chop Tops pull influences from the biggest names in rock, surf, punk and hardcore to create the classic rebel genre.The Chop Tops are making a name for themselves with revved-up rockabilly that is forged from the streets and honky-tonks of yesteryear.
Since the three-piece combo formed in 1995 in Santa Cruz, Calif., it has blazed a trail of original rock 'n' roll that pulls from the biggest names in rockabilly, surf, punk and hardcore to create a rebel genre that is all its own.
The group formed in 1995 in Southern California when drummer Gary "Sinner" Marsh, Gretsch guitar player Shelby Legnon and upright bass player Hotrod teamed up to celebrate their love of hot rods, pool halls and pompadours.
The Chop Tops released their first album, "Tales of Hot Rods, Hot Broads & Lucky Odds," in 1999. The album was produced by Deke Dickerson, a guitarist well-known on the American roots music scene who just paid a visit to Johnny B's. While touring the country to promote its debut album, the Chop Tops caught the attention of Ronnie Weiser, president of Rollin' Rock Records, and a second album, "Always Wild," was released in 2000. More touring and another recording, "Evil Six," ensued in 2001.
During that time The Chop Tops performed with groups such as Agent Orange, The Blasters, The Brian Setzer Orchestra, Demented Are Go, Los Lobos, The Ramones and Nekromantiz, along with artists such as Dick Dale, the "King of Surf Guitar"; country rocker Dwight Yoakam; and blues legend John Lee Hooker.
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The group is now ridin' the wave of "Triple Deuces," its newest album released on Split 7 Records.
The music is a compilation of past and present with a taste of what's to come.
Local band Idle Threats will open the show at Johnny B's. Cover costs $7. Call 773-1900.
