The Jackson Hives began as a 3-piece combo (including singer/songwriter/guitarist Michael Swart and original member Jon Leeds on Drums) called Jet in early 2000. After the addition of John Golden on guitar in mid-2000, the band changed its name to the Jackson Hives. Soon after, Jeremy Mathews joined the band, completing the current line-up. Around the same time, a 5-song EP was released to much critical acclaim.
The Jackson Hives play original power-pop music. Their sound is driven by the solid rhythm section of Mathews and Leeds, and the strong cadence of Swart's guitar and vocals. Golden adds additional guitar that flavors and occasionally alters the melody of each song. Their live shows are characterized by the snappy bounce of Leeds' tight percussion, Mathews' energetic bass playing, and Swart's vocals coasting over the powerful crunch of dual guitars that trade lead and rhythm duties.
On May 10th, 2003, the Jackson Hives released Café Racer, a 10-song CD expanding on their live sound with additional instrumentation while retaining a live drum sound. Michael Swart recorded & produced the well-received project.
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