The Gone Jackals

The Gone Jackals were an American blues rock band, formed in San Francisco, California in 1984. The band gained a cult following in the 1990s, particularly among fans of the video game Full Throttle, for which they provided much of the soundtrack. The Gone Jackals were known for their gritty sound, combining elements of traditional blues, rock, and motorcycle culture. Despite their niche appeal, the band played a significant role in the integration of rock music into multimedia projects during the 1990s.

History

The Gone Jackals were founded by frontman Keith Karloff, who also served as the band's lead guitarist and primary songwriter. The original lineup included bassist Trey Sabatelli, drummer Judd Austin, and rhythm guitarist Ricardo Krieb. The band's music was heavily influenced by earlier blues rock acts such as Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, and Lynyrd Skynyrd, as well as the outlaw biker culture of the 1960s and 1970s.

In 1989, The Gone Jackals released their debut album, Out and About with the Gone Jackals, which received modest attention. However, it was their 1995 album, Bone to Pick, that brought them into the limelight. This album was prominently featured in the LucasArts adventure game Full Throttle, marking one of the first instances of a video game soundtrack being composed of licensed music from a single band. The game's success helped to introduce the band's music to a wider audience, and Bone to Pick became closely associated with the game's cult following.

Musical Style and Influence

The Gone Jackals' music is characterized by its raw energy, gritty vocals, and blues-infused rock guitar riffs. The band's sound is a blend of traditional blues rock with a modern edge, reflecting their influences while also exploring themes of freedom, rebellion, and the open road. Their music often featured stories and imagery related to motorcycle culture, making it resonate with fans of biker lifestyle and adventure gaming alike.

Legacy

Although The Gone Jackals disbanded in the early 2000s, their music continues to be celebrated by fans of Full Throttle and blues rock enthusiasts. The band's contribution to the Full Throttle soundtrack is considered a landmark in the use of licensed music in video games, paving the way for more expansive and eclectic soundtracks in the industry. The Gone Jackals' unique blend of blues, rock, and biker culture remains a niche yet influential part of 1990s rock music history.

Discography

• Out and About with the Gone Jackals (1989)
• Bone to Pick (1995)

See Also

• Blues rock
• Full Throttle (video game)
• Music in video games
• San Francisco in the 1990s