Jerkwater was an accident.

Chris didn't really have a band when he booked that first show, just a couple of demo tapes of some sad little songs. Thankfully, his neighbor Steve had listened to those tapes, and would be able to manage the bass parts just fine. And maybe Steve's friend Johnny could sit in on drums, but he was a guitarist. Didn't he say something about playing drums when he was in high school? Yes, he did have some experience, and he's open to give it a shot. 

OK, so we now have a band, sort of.

That first night in Hells Kitchen, a surly crowd witnessed the birth of Jerkwater - a trio who showed that crowd that spontaneity was still the most entertaining of rock and roll's characteristics. 

Barreling through the 5 songs from the tapes, and quickly running out of material, much of the set was made up as they went, but no one was able to tell. "Hmm... If we can bullshit our way through a 2 hour set, we can certainly make this work" one of them had said.

They are still known to make things up when they play shows, and they have brought this approach into the creative process as well. The resulting sound has a deep sense of melody and melancholy that is tempered with humor and pop sensibilities.Ý This can be heard on their debut Love and Latitude, which brings out a mature cooperative effort at arranging and writing, while still capturing the individual personalities of each of the musicians.

Living now in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, the band can be found playing the NYC/Brooklyn scene and along the East Coast. Still, the band likes to book the "fun" shows such as opening for Fellini films on the West Side docks. It brings back that cherished sense of bewilderment that started this whole thing in the first place.

Jerkwater is Chris Bowers (Guitar/ Vocals), Steve Christensen (Bass/ Vocals) and Johnny Rock (Drums/ Vocals). 

What does "jerkwater" mean?
Contrary to popular belief, "jerkwater" is not a vulgar term. It is a colloquialism used to mean "small and insignificant." (American Heritage)

Where did Jerkwater record their CD? 
Jerkwater recorded their 'Love and Latitude' in Poughkeepsie, New York with Jacques Cohen (Mercury Rev, Bright, Silver Apples, etc.). Poughkeepsie is the birthplace of acclaimed director Ed Wood. 

Who plays what in Jerkwater?
Live, Chris plays guitar and sings. Steve shares some of the vocal responsibilities and plays the bass. Johnny plays the drums and sings the pretty harmony parts. Off stage and while recording, it becomes a bit more confusing as to who does/did what.

How often does the L Train run?
As habitues of Brooklyn's Williamsburg, Jerkwater happens to be unofficial experts on the subtleties and service of the L Train. During rush hour trains generally run every 4-7 minutes, on average. Otherwise they run every Christmas.

Soda, pop, or cola?
Johnny: I'm from Queens. It's soda.
Chris: In Atlanta, no matter what you're drinking, it's Coca-Cola.
Steve: They all just smoke crack in DC.