Kyuss

Kyuss was an American rock band formed in 1989 in Palm Desert, California. Emerging from the region’s desert-rock scene, the group became a foundational act in the development of stoner rock and desert rock, noted for heavy, fuzz-drenched guitar tones, groove-oriented riffs, and a melodic but aggressive approach. The core lineup included John Garcia on vocals and Josh Homme on guitar, with Brant Bjork on drums. The band’s bass position changed over time, with players such as Scott Reeder and Nick Oliveri contributing at different periods.

Kyuss released four widely regarded studio albums during the early 1990s: Wretch (1991), Blues for the Red Sun (1992), Welcome to Sky Valley (1994), and ...And the Circus Leaves Town (1995). These records helped define a sound that married thick, down-tuned guitars, simple yet powerful rhythms, and desert imagery. Although the band dissolved in 1995 amid internal tensions and members’ side projects, its influence extended far beyond its brief active span.

Legacy and influence: Kyuss is widely cited as a major influence on later bands within the stoner rock and doom metal genres. Its members went on to prominent projects; Josh Homme formed Queens of the Stone Age, while Garcia and others continued with groups such as Unida and related acts. The band’s music continues to be revisited by new generations of listeners and musicians.

Reunions: In 2010–2012, a touring project called Kyuss Lives! featured Garcia and Bjork alongside Nick Oliveri and guitarist Bruno Fevery. Legal disputes with Homme led to rebranding as Vista Chino, which carried the lineup forward for a period.