Injury Reserve is an American experimental hip hop group from Phoenix, Arizona, formed in 2013. The group originally consisted of rappers Stepa J. Groggs and Ritchie With a T, along with producer Parker Corey. Following Groggs’ death in 2020, the group continued as a duo. They are known for their experimental approach to hip hop, incorporating elements of industrial hip hop, noise music, and avant-garde production techniques.
History
Formation and early years (2013–2015)
Injury Reserve formed in Phoenix, Arizona when Ritchie With a T (Nathaniel Ritchie) and Stepa J. Groggs (Jordan Groggs) met while working at a Vans store. Groggs, who was Ritchie’s manager at the time, introduced him to producer Parker Corey. The group began recording music in Corey’s garage and released their first mixtape, “Live from the Dentist Office,” in 2015.
Rising recognition (2016–2018)
Their second mixtape, “Floss,” was released in 2016 and garnered significant attention in underground hip hop circles. The project showcased their evolving sound, combining aggressive production with introspective lyrics. During this period, they released the “Drive It Like It’s Stolen” EP (2017), which further expanded their sonic palette.
Major label debut and evolution (2019)
In 2019, the group signed with Loma Vista Recordings and released their self-titled debut album “Injury Reserve.” The album featured collaborations with Rico Nasty, JPEGMAFIA, and Aminé, among others. It received widespread critical acclaim for its experimental production and honest lyricism.
Death of Groggs and continuation (2020–present)
On June 29, 2020, Stepa J. Groggs passed away at the age of 32. Following a period of mourning, the remaining members released “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” in 2021, which was largely completed before Groggs’ death and features his contributions. The album marked a significant shift toward more experimental and abstract sound design.
Musical style
Injury Reserve’s music is characterized by its experimental approach to hip hop production and unconventional song structures. Their sound incorporates elements of:
- Industrial hip hop
- Noise music
- Jazz rap
- Electronic music
- Avant-garde hip hop
The group is known for their live performances, which often feature intense energy and mosh pits, more commonly associated with punk rock shows.
Production
Parker Corey’s production style is noted for its:
- Use of live instrumentation
- Unconventional sampling techniques
- Integration of noise and industrial elements
- Dynamic song structures
- Emphasis on textural contrast
Discography
Studio albums
- “Injury Reserve” (2019)
- “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” (2021)
Mixtapes
- “Live from the Dentist Office” (2015)
- “Floss” (2016)
EPs
- “Drive It Like It’s Stolen” (2017)
Notable singles
- “Jailbreak the Tesla” (featuring Aminé) (2019)
- “HPNGC” (2019)
- “Superman That” (2021)
Critical reception
Injury Reserve has received consistent critical acclaim for their innovative approach to hip hop. Their self-titled album was praised by publications including Pitchfork, The Needle Drop, and The Fader. “By the Time I Get to Phoenix” was particularly noted for its experimental nature and emotional depth, appearing on numerous year-end lists in 2021.
Influence and legacy
The group has been credited with:
- Pushing boundaries in experimental hip hop
- Influencing the DIY rap scene
- Breaking conventional genre boundaries
- Establishing Phoenix as a notable city in contemporary hip hop
Live performances
Injury Reserve is known for their energetic live shows, having performed at numerous festivals and venues including:
- SXSW
- Coachella
- Primavera Sound
- Various international tours
Collaborations
The group has collaborated with numerous artists, including:
- JPEGMAFIA
- Rico Nasty
- Aminé
- A-Trak
- Tony Velour
- Dylan Brady
Cultural impact
Injury Reserve has been recognized for their influence on:
- DIY hip hop culture
- Experimental music production
- Independent music distribution
- Alternative hip hop aesthetics