Dexter Romweber, Flat Duo Jets founder, dead at 57
Legendary garage rock guitarist, and founder of the iconic two-piece band Flat Duo Jets, Dexter Romweber, passed away on Friday at the age of 57.
The news of his passing came from the musician’s family, who shared a statement on Facebook. At this time, it is believed that Romweber died of natural causes, though a medical exam is reportedly pending.
His family’s statement described Romweber – birth name John Michael Dexter Romweber – as “One of the most acclaimed artists of the roots-rock underground”. Born in Indiana in 1966, Romweber is perhaps best known for his work with Flat Duo Jets, the renowned garage punk duo who later inspired such acts as The White Stripes.
Romweber was always individualistic, bringing the punk rock revolution to the unlikely setting of his North Carolina high school. At the age of only ten, Romweber started his musical career, forming Gary and the Resistors with various classmates, along with his sister on drums.
Moving through various line-ups and band name changes, including The Kamikazes, it was not until Romweber formed Flat Duo Jets with Chris “Crow” Smith that his music career began to take off. Formed in 1983, with a name inspired by Gene Vincent, Flat Duo Jets were a cornerstone of Athens, Georgia’s art rock scene, often playing alongside the likes of The B-52 and R.E.M.
Gaining punk rock credibility while opening for The Cramps, the group’s first release, In Stereo, proved to be a cult hit. Enjoying a long and illustrious career with Flat Duo Jets, the pair parted ways in 1999, but their influence over garage rock is longstanding. Jack White said in 2011, upon reissuing the duo’s album Go Go Harlem Baby, that the group were “genuinely important in the pantheon of American music.”
The guitarist and songwriter’s death was preceded by that of his sister Sara, his brothers Luke and Joe, and his mother Sara. He will be sorely missed.
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