Rye Coalition Covers Shellac And Drive Like Jehu On First New Recordings In Over 20 Years

On July 18, Rye Coalition will release Paid In Full, a limited-edition 7-inch single via Ernest Jenning Record Co. (pre-order). Marking their first new recording in over two decades, Paid In Full, is a tribute to artists and friends who the band lost in the last two years.

The 7-inch features covers of two songs Shellac’s “Wingwalker” (in honor of Steve Albini) and Drive Like Jehu’s “Bullet Train to Vegas” (for Rick Froberg). No spin, no interpretation,  just the songs the way they were meant to be played. It’s the cover record no one asked for, you’re welcome!  

Every copy of Paid In Full is unique, handmade, stamped, numbered and painted on letter pressed covers. There will be 100 copies on ink splatter vinyl only available via Bandcamp and EJRC site and 400 black vinyl copies.  

All profits from this release will go to Chicago’s Letters Charity, co-founded by Steve Albini and his wife Heather Whinna dedicated to raising money for families in poverty.

For further reading on Froberg, Akashic Books just announced the first collection of his visual art compiled by Paid In Full 7” designer Sohrab Habibion (Obits, SAVAK).

Rye Coalition is a punk rock band from Jersey City, NJ, known for fusing post-hardcore intensity with classic rock swagger. Formed in 1993 while still in high school, vocalist Ralph Cuseglio, guitarists Jon Gonnelli and Herb Wiley, bassist Justin Morey, and drummer Dave Leto, built a cult following through blistering live shows and releases on labels like Gern Blandsten, Troubleman Unlimited, Tiger Style and Sub Pop. 

Their sound evolved from chaotic, riff-heavy noise to a hard rock-infused punch, culminating in Curses (2006). Rye Coalition developed a devoted cult following through relentless touring, visceral live performances, and an uncompromising artistic stance. In 2014, the documentary Rye Coalition: The Story of the Hard Luck 5 chronicled their underdog journey, reviving interest in their legacy. 

Now considered underground legends and pioneers of screamo, Rye Coalition’s influence resonates through punk, indie, and noise rock scenes of today. Their blend of no-frills intensity and rock ‘n’ roll bravado endures, testament to a band that never chased trends but carved out their own bruised, blistering path.