Uncle Slam
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1987 |
| Headquarters | Los Angeles , United States |
| Products | Music albums |
Uncle Slam was a crossover thrash group originating from Los Angeles, California, established in 1987. Their sound was shaped by 1980s punk influences such as Suicidal Tendencies—with whom they shared some personnel—as well as D.R.I. and Black Flag. Additionally, heavy metal bands like Black Sabbath and Iron Maiden contributed to their style. The band’s lyrics frequently explored themes including politics, defiance, mortality, and aggression.
History
The band came together in 1987 with founding members Jon Nelson and Todd Moyer handling vocals and guitar duties, John Flitcraft on bass, and former Suicidal Tendencies drummer Amery Smith. Following Flitcraft’s exit, Louiche Mayorga (also formerly of Suicidal Tendencies) briefly took over bass responsibilities, succeeded by Bob Heathcote and later Simon Oliver. Their first album, Say Uncle, was issued in 1988 under Caroline Records. Oliver departed in 1989 but returned in 1991 after Angelo Espino filled the bassist role for a period. The sophomore release, Will Work for Food, appeared in 1993 via Restless Records. After Smith left the lineup in 1994, R. J. Herrera—another ex-Suicidal Tendencies member—assumed the drummer position. The band’s last record, When God Dies, was released through Medusa Records in 1995 before they disbanded later that year.
Members
Final lineup
- Todd Moyer – lead guitar, backing vocals (1984–1995)
- Simon Oliver – bass (1987–1989, 1991–1995)
- R. J. Herrera – drums (1994–1995)
Previous members
- Jon Nelson – lead vocals, lead guitar (1984–1987) †
- John Flitcraft – bass, backing vocals (1984–1986) †
- Louiche Mayorga – bass (1986–1987)
- Bob Heathcote – bass (1987)
- Angelo Espino – bass (1989–1991)
- Amery Smith – drums, backing vocals (1984–1994)
† = Members associated with the Brood period.
Studio albums
| Year | Title | Label |
|---|---|---|
| 1988 | Say Uncle | Caroline Records |
| 1993 | Will Work for Food | Restless Records |
| 1995 | When God Dies | Medusa Records |
Demos
| Year | Title |
|---|---|
| 1987 | Say Uncle preproduction demo |
| 1987 | Demo '87 |
| 1988 | Say Uncle |