Photos by Sharon Steele – Black Rebel Motorcycle Club (BRMC) is an American rock band formed in San Francisco in 1998 by bassist Robert Levon Been, guitarist Peter Hayes, and drummer Nick Jago (later replaced by Leah Shapiro). Drawing their name from Marlon Brando’s biker gang in The Wild One, BRMC became known for their brooding mix of garage rock, shoegaze, folk, and blues, delivered with a gritty, rebellious spirit.
The band’s self-titled debut (2001) and breakthrough sophomore record Take Them On, On Your Own (2003) established them as a key part of the early 2000s garage rock revival, while later albums like Howl (2005) showcased a rawer, Americana-inspired side. With acclaimed releases including Baby 81 (2007), Beat the Devil’s Tattoo (2010), Specter at the Feast (2013), and Wrong Creatures (2018), BRMC have built a reputation for immersive, high-volume live shows and darkly atmospheric songwriting.
Over two decades into their career, Black Rebel Motorcycle Club remains a vital force in alternative rock—restless, uncompromising, and rooted in a sound that bridges classic rock grit with modern edge.
