The Ergs!

The Ergs!

The Ergs! are a pop punk band from South Amboy, New Jersey, formed in 2000. The group consists of Jeff Schroeck on guitar and vocals, Joe Keller on bass, and Mike Yannich on drums and lead vocals. They are also known by the nickname “The Near-Sighted Three”.

Early releases

The band begins by releasing two self-issued CD-Rs in its first year. Its first wider attention comes with the five-song Three Guys, Twelve Eyes EP on Whoa Oh in 2001. The next release, The Ben Kweller EP in 2002, uses artwork borrowed from Ben Kweller’s Phone Home EP and includes a song aimed at Kweller.

Albums and later records

In 2003, The Ergs! release their first full-length album, Dorkrockcorkrod, which receives strong reviews in the punk press and broadens their audience beyond New Jersey. After an initial release on Whoa Oh, Don Giovanni Records picks up the album for distribution. Don Giovanni also distributes the band’s 2005 EP Jersey’s Best Prancers, whose title and artwork reference Lifetime’s 1997 album Jersey’s Best Dancers. In 2006, the band is chosen to back Dave Parasite of The Parasites on tour, supporting a Parasites “Best Of” release. In 2007, Dirtnap Records releases Upstairs/Downstairs.

Status

The Ergs! are active from 2000 to 2008. After breaking up, they reunite several times.