Retaining the strong socio-political consciousness that characterized his former Boston street-punk band Suspect Device, Bennett created Jason Bennett and The Resistance in order to develop a sound that is more musically diverse – yet still punk in spirit - in order to realize his long-held vision of rock ‘n roll-as-folk music. Whether the band is playing a full-on rock set, or a stripped-down acoustic version, they play with searing conviction at every single show. In Bennett's deft, diverse, and daring songwriting, one hears the influences of Woody Guthrie, The Clash, Billy Bragg, and Bad Brains – to name a few. More and more, Bennett’s songwriting is complemented by the contributions of bassist Ryan Packer and lead guitarist Jim Burke (The Pug Uglies). Drummer Mike McCabe holds it down to synthesize a relentless rhythm section and melodic guitar playing. JB&R’s songs are thematically characterized by an overarching optimism captured in the title of their 2007 EP: Hope Dies Last recorded by Paul Q. Kolderie (Radiohead, The Pixies, Billy Bragg) at Camp Street Studios, out now on Teenage Heart Records. The band’s logged more shows out of Boston than in, and they plan to continue the inexorable march forward this spring and summer.
