The Accelerators

The Accelerators are a North Jersey based punk band whose brand of fast and loud "power pop" music has made them local club favorites since the 1980s. Largely influenced by The Ramones, The Misfits and The Smithereens. The Accelerators’ music is defined by strong melodies, unique irreverent lyrics and powerful drumming. The band was started by singer/bass player/songwriter Ron Nole in 1981 with talented but troubled lead guitarist John T. Hansen, and backed by Dave Ross on drums. They released a number of self-produced vinyl records and cassettes and were featured on comps such as the Weird New Jersey collections with standout titles such as "Shades of Death Road." Hansen, who produced much of the band's recorded output, continued to innovate on the basic punk ethos. For "Landscaping '99," a cassette release from the late 1980s, the band recorded with an actual power lawnmower in the studio. The band appeared a number of times on Pat Duncan's show on WFMU-FM. John Hansen died in 2001 due to effects of alcoholism in Philadelphia, Pa. Anthony L. Rodriguez joined the band in 1991 on guitar and vocals. For a short time, Anthony filled in on drums returning the band to a trio, then later back on guitar, while A.C. Krueger joined in on drums. Troy DeAngelis is currently the band's drummer. Brian Sommer of New Jersey hardcore legends Stetz joined the band in 2001 as the rhythm guitarist. The band has proudly shared the stage with The Dickies, Agent Orange, Cheetah Chrome, Marky Ramone, Richie Ramone, Pat Dinizio of The Smithereens, Dave Smally of the band All and Cheri Currie of the Runaways. The Accelerator’s music has been featured in multiple films including “Bigfoot Blood Trap,” “Pretty Fine Things” and the short film “Ghouls Night Out.” To date, the band has released over 30 albums including "Punk Rock Rumble," "Do You Remember Punk?" "Start the Revolution" and "Punk Rock Revolution.” A Punk and Horror Video collection is also available.