During their original incarnation in the late ’80s and ’90s, Jawbox almost broke into the mainstream with their rough-hewn combination of Wire’s deconstructivist blurts and Killing Joke’s angular assaults. But like many of their peers, they were washed away by the arrival of nü metal and the dominance of hip-hop and split up in 1997. The DC band’s reunion for a 12-date tour that stops by Wonder Ballroom tonight isn’t an attempt to reclaim the throne; it’s a high-volume reminder of their unique power and unshakable chemistry.

by Robert Ham