Slash's Snakepit: The Raw Hard Rock Side Project

Slash's Snakepit was a hard rock band formed by Guns N' Roses guitarist Slash in 1994. The project served as a creative outlet during a period of internal strife within Guns N' Roses, producing two albums that channeled a classic, blues-infused rock sound.

Early career

Formed in Los Angeles, USA, the band emerged from informal jam sessions with musicians including guitarist Gilby Clarke, drummer Matt Sorum, and bassist Mike Inez. Their debut album, It's Five O'Clock Somewhere, was released in 1995 on Geffen Records and was primarily composed of material Slash felt was unsuitable for the evolving Guns N' Roses direction.

Breakthrough

The 1995 debut It's Five O'Clock Somewhere was the project's commercial peak, fueled by the strength of the classic rock radio staple "Beggars & Hangers-On". The album was certified Gold in the United States, affirming Slash's stature outside of his main band and proving there was an audience for his brand of straightforward rock.

Key tracks

Beggars & Hangers-On — This bluesy epic became the band's signature track and a lasting fixture on rock radio.

Neither Can I — The song showcased the band's dynamic range, moving from a melodic verse to a powerful, heavy chorus.

Dime Store Rock — A high-energy opener that perfectly set the tone for the debut album's unpretentious rock ethos.

Been There Lately — A key track from the second album, it featured a revamped lineup and a rawer, more aggressive sound.

The band's second album, Ain't Life Grand, arrived in 2000 on Koch Records featuring an almost entirely new lineup with vocalist Rod Jackson. While it did not match the commercial success of the debut, it was praised for its gritty, live-in-the-studio energy and commitment to pure rock and roll during the peak of the nu-metal era.

Fans of Slash's Snakepit's gritty hard rock style should also explore Velvet Revolver. This supergroup also featured Slash and delivered a hard-rock sound with a modern edge. The raw blues-rock foundation can be heard in The Cult. Their music blends gothic atmosphere with a similar dedication to big guitar riffs. For the classic rock spirit, listen to AC/DC. They share the same no-frills, riff-driven approach to rock music. The project's lineage also connects to Guns N' Roses, the iconic hard rock act where Slash made his name.

The music of Slash's Snakepit maintains a strong presence on classic rock FM stations and dedicated hard rock radio streams. Tracks like "Beggars & Hangers-On" are perennial favorites, ensuring the band's output continues to reach new generations of rock listeners.

You can hear the powerful hard rock anthems of Slash's Snakepit on radio stations featured across our network. Discover and listen to their music through the variety of rock radio stations available on onairium.com.