Strange Culprits makes music for people with scars, just like them. Our scars are proof of our strength. Have you been through some stuff, and have the scars to prove it? Cool, we do too. But don’t get it twisted: this isn’t a contest, it’s a club. We have all been through some tough times. Hang with us: we’ll lift each other up, feel better, and stay strong.

We describe our music like this: seemingly disparate elements, thrown together by circumstance, that somehow end up working well together. If the band were Canadian, the situation would be likened to musical Poutine.

We make California Rock. It’s mostly American post-punk music of some variety, and borrows from classic soul, honky tonk, pop, and folk. The music may speak to you, or it may not. Listen and decide for yourself. If you have been though some stuff, you’ll know what’s up.

The band hails from the San Francisco Bay Area, though only one of its members was born here.

The present band lineup came together back in late 2016. Our singer, guitarist, songwriter, (and apparent control freak) Jason really needed a bass player. Multi-instrumentalist Sami always wanted to give a go at playing bass. So, Jason bought Sami a bass and an amp, taught her to play, and off to the races they went. Meanwhile, Jason met Tony and somehow convinced him the whole thing wouldn’t be a complete disaster. In their spare time, the three create and perform interesting music together. Also, Jason and Sami are married to each other, so there’s that.

2018 saw the release of the band’s self-titled debut album, which received glowing reviews. The band’s single “Concrete in the Rain” enjoyed impressive streaming plays and radio airplay.

In early 2020, the band was very excited about the release of two new songs, Smiths Creek and Namesake … then the world shut down thanks to COVID-19. So, like the whole rest of the world, the band had to lay low for awhile.

Fast forward to 2023: there’s a new Monarch in the UK. Also, we’re shaking off the COVID-induced malaise and getting back in gear. New releases will be forthcoming. Really, we mean it.  ~Another lost year (and then some), this time due to health challenges~

Looking to 2025 and beyond, we promise to keep being an interesting spectacle for these interesting times!