Founded in 1990 by Tom Lash (ex-System 56) and Greg Zydyk, Hot Tin Roof emerged from Cleveland's vibrant music scene with a distinctive blend of alternative, industrial, and electronic influences. The group self-released several CDs through Barbed Wire Recordings in the late 90s, earning significant airplay on alternative and college radio with standout tracks like "Fixation," while remixes of "Strip" achieved heavy rotation in clubs, showcasing their dance-floor sensibility.
The band's sonic palette spans industrial dance sampling, gloomy atmospheric ballads, and glam-inflected alternative pop, with a dark, moody edge throughout their catalog. As a live act, Hot Tin Roof shared stages with international acts including My Bloody Valentine and The Swans, establishing themselves as key players in the regional electronic and alternative music landscape. The project featured consistent contributions from Zydyk (also known for work with PRICK), Mark Minatodani, Blaine Brinton, and Bill Tiell, creating a cohesive sound that bridged post-punk aesthetics with electronic production.