Poobah (band)

Poobah is an American hard rock band formed in Youngstown, Ohio, in the early 1970s. They are best known for their powerful, heavy sound and psychedelic-influenced guitar work. The band's lineup has shifted over the years, but guitarist and vocalist Jim Gustafson has remained a constant presence.

Poobah's music is characterized by its blues-based hard rock foundation, often incorporating elements of progressive rock and proto-metal. Gustafson's distinctive guitar playing, which features heavy use of wah and fuzz effects, is a defining aspect of their sound. His vocals are equally recognizable, contributing to the band's raw and energetic performances.

The band's debut album, Let Me In (1972), is considered by many to be their seminal work and has become a cult classic among hard rock fans. It showcases their signature sound and includes tracks like "Mr. Destroyer" which is still played on rock radio stations. Subsequent albums, such as Ugly (1978) and Steamroller (1979), continued to explore their heavy rock style.

Despite not achieving mainstream commercial success, Poobah has maintained a dedicated following over the decades. They have continued to tour and record, releasing new material and reissuing their classic albums. The band's influence can be heard in a variety of hard rock and metal bands that followed them.