The Hentchmen

The Hentchmen are an American garage rock band formed in Detroit, Michigan, in October 1992, and have become a staple of the city’s music scene for over two decades. Known for their raw, energetic sound and minimal instrumentation, the band has consistently drawn influence from 1960s rock and roll while maintaining a dedicated local fanbase and achieving national recognition through tours and recordings.

History

The Hentchmen originated in October 1992 in Detroit as a no-bass trio comprised of John Szymanski on organ and vocals, Tim Purrier on guitar, and Chris Handyside on drums. The band’s initial sound was deliberately primitive, emphasizing energy and a stripped-down approach inspired by 1960s garage and surf music. They quickly began performing in venues around Detroit and Ann Arbor, building a following through frequent live shows.

The band signed with New York-based Norton Records, which allowed them to expand their reach through national tours while remaining rooted in the Michigan music scene. Their self-titled debut album and subsequent indie singles captured their energetic style, and albums like _Broad Appeal_ (1997) and _Motorvatin'_ (1998) gained local popularity. The lineup evolved over the years, with Mike Latulippe eventually becoming the band’s long-term drummer, joining Szymanski and Purrier as core members. Earlier drummers included Chris Handyside and Mike Audi.

Culture

The Hentchmen emerged during a revival of Detroit's garage rock movement in the 1990s, placing them alongside other prominent bands of the era. They were locally considered comparable to groups like the Gories and the White Stripes. Their music often reflects themes related to cars and Detroit life, blending punk energy with classic rock 'n' roll elements. This connection to the city’s automotive history and working-class culture has resonated with audiences and contributed to their enduring appeal.

The band’s 25th anniversary in 2017 marked a significant milestone, with a performance at Devil’s Night hosted by Third Man Records. By this time, the band had released several critically acclaimed albums, including _Three Times Infinity_ (2002) on Norton Records and _Form Follows Function_ (2004) on the Times Beach label. The album _Hentch-Forth_ (1998) notably featured Jack White on bass as a guest musician.

Notable Residents

The core members of The Hentchmen – John Szymanski, Tim Purrier, and Mike Latulippe – are all lifelong friends from the Detroit area. This long-standing connection has contributed to the band’s stability and collaborative spirit over the years. Szymanski also owns Outer Limits Lounge Records, through which the band independently released their 25th-anniversary album, _XXV_ in 2017.

Jack White, a prominent figure in the Detroit music scene, has a documented association with the band, having contributed bass to their 1998 album, _Hentch-Forth_. His involvement highlights the interconnectedness of the Detroit garage rock community and the band’s position within it.

Geography

The Hentchmen’s musical roots are firmly planted in Detroit and the surrounding areas of lower Michigan. They gained popularity performing frequently in venues throughout Detroit and Ann Arbor, cultivating a dedicated fanbase in these cities. Their early success was built on consistent live performances in these locations, establishing them as a prominent act in the regional music scene.

The band’s tours, facilitated by their signing with Norton Records, extended their reach beyond Michigan, taking them to Europe and other parts of the United States. However, they maintained a strong connection to their home base in Detroit, continuing to perform locally and reflect the city’s culture in their music.

See Also

• The Gories
• The White Stripes
• Detroit rock scene
• Norton Records

Music of Detroit Culture of Detroit