Caesars

Best known for the iPod commercial-soundtracking single "Jerk It Out," Sweden's Caesars -- originally known as Caesar's Palace -- formed in 1995. Singer César Vidal and guitarist Joakim Ahlund, who had known each other since kindergarten, began playing with bassist David Lindqvist and original drummer Jens Orjeheim (who was soon replaced by Nino Keller), and despite their lack of chops, they began recording demos soon after. Three of these early songs were released as the band's debut EP, Shake It, by Dolores Records in 1995. Along with Shake It, the string of 7" discs and the mini-album the band released in 1996 reflected the raw, garagey sounds of inspirations like the early Stones, The Sonics, Billy Childish, and The 13th Floor Elevators. Ahlund's discovery of a vintage Farfisa organ also had a major impact on The Caesars' sound, as reflected on their first full-length, Youth Is Wasted On The Young (which the group released in the States, via Minty Fresh, under the name Twelve Caesars).

Read More