Former leader of the Nerves (a Californian punk-rock band) and the Plimsouls, he
embarked on a solo career in 1987. Described as a "masterpiece" by Rolling Stone
magazine, his first album was produced by T Bone Burnett. John Hiatt and the
Byrds also took part. His inimitable voice serves up autobiographical lyrics in
a blend of torrid rock and nervous blues.