Circle Jerks

Circle Jerks are an American hardcore punk band formed in 1979 in Los Angeles, California. Founded by ex‑Black Flag vocalist Keith Morris and Redd Kross guitarist Greg Hetson, the band’s debut album Group Sex (1980) is widely regarded as a hardcore milestone.

History

Early Days and Increasing Popularity (1979–1982)

After departing Black Flag in December 1979, Keith Morris formed the band; originally known as the Bedwetters; with guitarist Greg Hetson, bassist Roger Rogerson, and drummer Lucky Lehrer. Their first recordings began in spring 1980, culminating in the 15‑minute album Group Sex, released in October 1980 on Frontier Records. The Circle Jerks also featured in the Penelope Spheeris documentary The Decline of Western Civilization, with live tracks from the album appearing on the soundtrack.

Later Years (1983–1989)

In late 1980, after signing with Faulty Products, the band recorded their second album, Wild in the Streets (1982). Following internal lineup changes—; ncluding the departure of Lehrer and subsequent replacements; the band released Golden Shower of Hits (1983) and later VI (1987), which featured material used in soundtracks such as Alex Cox’s Repo Man and Sid and Nancy. Briefly, Chris Poland played bass in 1989.

Hiatus (1990–1993)

The Circle Jerks dissolved in 1990 after Greg Hetson left to concentrate on his work with Bad Religion. Live recordings from their final tour during this period were released as the live album Gig in 1992, marking their last release with Relativity Records before the hiatus.

Reunions and Hiatuses (1994–2011)

The band reunited in 1994 with the Wonderful‑era lineup and signed a major label deal with Mercury Records, releasing their final studio album Oddities, Abnormalities and Curiosities in 1995. After a brief reunion, they played sporadically throughout the late 1990s, though internal tensions and health issues led to another breakup in 2011. In 2007, they released a new song, “I’m Gonna Live,” via MySpace.

Group Sex Anniversary Shows (2019–Present)

On November 22, 2019, the Circle Jerks announced a reunion to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Group Sex, with key members Keith Morris, Greg Hetson, and Zander Schloss taking part. Former Queens of the Stone Age drummer Joey Castillo joined on drums in 2021, and the band has continued touring North America alongside other influential punk acts.

Band Members

Current Members

• Keith Morris – vocals
• Greg Hetson – guitars
• Zander Schloss – bass
• Joey Castillo – drums

Discography

• Group Sex (1980)
• Wild in the Streets (1982)
• Golden Shower of Hits (1983)
• Wonderful (1985)
• VI (1987)
• Oddities, Abnormalities and Curiosities (1995)