Hot Snakes is an American post-hardcore band renowned for their frenzied sound and raw energy, which has carved out a distinct niche in the punk rock landscape. Formed in 1999 in San Diego, California, the group was initiated by John Reis (guitarist/vocalist) and Rick Froberg (vocalist/guitarist) after their previous band, Drive Like Jehu, disbanded. Both Reis and Froberg had an established musical rapport from their earlier collaboration and sought to channel their creative synergy into the no-frills, guitar-driven fury of Hot Snakes. The driving rhythm section was rounded out by the talents of Gar Wood on bass and a succession of drummers including Jason Kourkounis and Mario Rubalcaba.

Over the course of its initial run, Hot Snakes entwined compellingly sharp guitar riffs with propulsive rhythms to create their signature explosive sound. Their debut album, "Automatic Midnight" (2000), set the tone for their formidable discography, followed by the critically acclaimed "Suicide Invoice" in 2002 and the visceral intensity of "Audit in Progress" in 2004. After disbanding in 2005, Hot Snakes triumphantly returned in 2018 with the album "Jericho Sirens," recapturing the incendiary spirit that had been their trademark. Alongside their studio albums, live recordings like "Thunder Down Under" and sessions like the "Peel Sessions EP" offer a glimpse into the band's raw live presence. Despite sporadic activity and side projects, Hot Snakes has maintained a cult following through their fierce consistency and unapologetic sound, demonstrated once again in their singles "Checkmate" and "I Shall Be Free," promising that their rebellious flame burns as bright as ever.