Members

Jonathan Postal – Founder / Lead Vocals / Guitar

A cornerstone of the Memphis alternative scene, Jonathan Postal is a prolific artist whose career spans decades of rock and roll reinvention. A veteran of the 1970s punk explosion, Postal was a founding member of the SF band The Avengers and the frontman for the influential group The Readymades before bringing his raw, cinematic vision to Memphis. In Rattlesnake Whip, he serves as the primary songwriter, delivering grit-infused vocals and versatile instrumentation on guitar, mandolin, and harmonica. Influenced by the storytelling of Tom Waits and Nick Cave alongside the atmosphere of Spaghetti Westerns, Postal’s creative direction drives the band’s signature “Americana-Noir” sound.

Jeff “Chonk” Yonker – Lead / Slide Guitar / Vocals

Bringing a wealth of experience to the front line, Jeff “Chonk” Yonker is the lead guitarist responsible for the band’s sharp, atmospheric textures. Since arriving in the Memphis scene in 2020, “Chonk” has quickly become a sought-after player, known for his ability to bridge the gap between aggressive punk energy and melodic alt-rock precision. His playing style provides the perfect counterpoint to Postal’s songwriting, adding a layer of sophisticated grit that defines the Rattlesnake Whip live experience. Whether he’s navigating a swampy blues riff or a high-octane solo, his presence is a vital component of the band’s sonic identity.

Edge – Bass Guitar / Keys / Vocals

The low-end of Rattlesnake Whip is anchored by the multi-instrumentalist known as Edge. A highly versatile musician with deep roots in the Memphis area, Edge brings more than just a steady bass line to the group; his background spans a wide array of instruments, including piano and upright bass, allowing him to approach the rhythm section with a unique, melodic perspective. His locked-in chemistry with the percussion section provides the foundational pulse necessary for the band’s moody, driving compositions, ensuring that every track has the weight and groove it demands.

Steve “Mr. Meter” Langford – Drums

Earned through years of impeccable timing and professional reliability, Steve Langford’s nickname “Mr. Meter” says it all. A longtime fixture in the local circuit and a former member of the acclaimed Memphis indie-rock group Woodenmouth, Langford is the rhythmic engine of Rattlesnake Whip. His drumming is characterized by a “less is more” philosophy that favors pocket and precision over flash, perfectly suiting the band’s blend of garage rock and dark Americana. In a scene full of drummers, Langford stands out for his unwavering consistency and his deep-seated passion for the Memphis live music community.