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 and handmade guitars 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 was the founding member of the acclaimed Mid West punk band FA-Q, Guitarist for Gift Horse and an accomplished studio musician. He 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.

Hayden “Hewy” Root – Bass Guitar / Vocals

The low-end of Rattlesnake Whip is anchored by the fiery and adaptive groove of Hayden “Hewy” Root. Originally picking up the guitar as a teenager inspired by the stadium-sized energy of Led Zeppelin and The Beatles, Hewy truly found his musical calling at 17 when he switched to the bass—and he hasn’t looked back since. His musical DNA is as diverse as his journey. After a decade of honorable service in the U.S. Navy, his travels allowed him to absorb a massive spectrum of regional sounds and styles. Now settled in Memphis, Hewy brings a decade of worldly influence, military-grade precision, and a burning passion for live performance to the rhythm section. 

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.