The Top Hat is happy to welcome The Model Rockets and long time Missoula garage rock favorite VTO for a FREE live performance on May 26, 2018.
After the breakup of Stumpy Joe, several members re-formed in 1993 as a punked-out power-pop outfit called the Glory Stompers, which was soon changed to the Model Rockets because of an identically named band. The initial lineup included guitarist/lead vocalist John Ramberg, gutiarist Grant Johnson, bassist Boyd Remillard, and drummer Graham Black.
After a local Seattle single and a compilation appearance, the Model Rockets released their debut album, Hilux, on Lucky Records, which was produced by ex-Young Fresh Fellow Scott McCaughey. Johnson left the band in late 1994 and was replaced by former Chemistry Setmember Scott Sutherland. Switching to the C/Z label, the Rockets supported their second album, 1996’s Snatch It Back and Hold It, with a successful tour of Spain.
