Lionize

Lionize is an American group from Washington, D.C., described as a groove-heavy stoner rock band with dark reggae influences. Its sound also draws on funk, rock and hard rock, and it is associated with a strong DIY work ethic and energetic live performances.

Band lineup and sound

The band’s rhythm section centres on LaMel Randolgh on drums and Henry Upton on bass. Chris Brooks plays Hammond organ and keyboards, while Nathan Bergman provides guitar and vocals. The group’s style combines heavy riffs, organ-driven rock and reggae rhythms, placing it in the stoner-rock, funk and reggae space.

Recordings and collaborations

Destruction Manual is produced by J. Robbins of Jawbox and consists of twelve tracks. The album reflects Lionize’s mix of classic reggae and rock influences with a modern approach. On Killers and Crooks, the band works with David Hinds and Selwyn Brown of Steel Pulse, and Tim Sult of Clutch contributes guitar work across the record. Lionize also records in Kingston, Jamaica with Sidney Mills of Steel Pulse.

Live activity and associated acts

Lionize tours extensively, playing more than 200 dates a year, and opens for acts including Clutch, Galactic, Steel Pulse and Bad Brains. The band also backs and supports Lee “Scratch” Perry, and it collaborates on and off stage with artists such as Ozomatli and Chali 2na. It also supports heavy metal groups Kylesa and cKy, and later tours with Authority Zero and Streetlight Manifesto.