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Home , Against All Authority, A Global Threat, A Wilhelm Scream, Billy Ficca, Brett Reed, Brian Baker (musician)

Atom and His Package

Possibly the smallest on the list, Atom & his Package consists of Adam Goren (Atom) and his package (a Yamaha sequencer) make funny punk utilising many of of the package's hundreds of instruments about the metric system, the lead singer of Judas Priest and what Jewish people do on Christmas. Now moved on to other projects, Atom will remain

the person who told the world Anarchy Means That I Litter, The Palestinians Are Not the Same Thing as the Rebel Alliance Jackass, and If You Own The Redskins, You're a ****.

Ghost Mice

With only two members in this folk/punk band their voices and their music can be heard along

with such pride. This band is one of the greatest to come out of the because of their abrasive acoustic style. The band consists of a male (I don't know his name) and Hannah who plays the . They are successful and very well should be because it's hard to

99 when you have such little to work with. This band is off Plan It X records and they put on a fantastic show. Not only is the band one of the leaders of the new genre called folk/punk but I'm sure there is going to be very big things to come from them and it will always be from the heart.

Defiance,

Defiance, Ohio are perhaps one of the most compassionate and energetic leaders of the

"folk/punk" movement. Their clever accompanied by fast, melodic, acoustic make them very enjoyable to listen to. On the DIY label "Plan-it X" this band exhibits so much stage 98 energy and passion when they perform. They have a very bright future ahead with the release of "Share What Ya Got." If you have never checked out this band I strongly recommend it. They are true to what they say and it shows when they sing and play their music. Defiance, Ohio has a very bright future ahead, so lets sit and wait to see what happens.

I Farm 97

Mad Sin

German band Mad Sin have been developing their trademark sound since 1987. With their songs rarely dipping below breakneck speed, the distinctive melodic vocals are

96 perfectly complimented by their out-of-control mix of and punk. With 8 full lengths under their belt Mad Sin have carved themselves a unique niche in their genre.

Forgotten Rebels

95 Canadian punk band.

Mojo Nixon

With a name combining voodoo and bad politics, is one of the prime exponents of cow-punk playing rocking country tunes with a ethic. First with Skid Roper and later with his band the Toadliquors Nixon can be relied on to entertain with his unique mix of country

94 beats, stolen riffs and hilarious lyrics Mojo Nixon has spread his message across the globe. Done Henley must die, Princess Diana was a drunk divorced floozie and Michael J. Fox is the anti-elvis.

Good Riddance

Forming in 1986 as a way for to vent his political frustration, these vegancore kids rose to punk rock stardom in the early/mid-90's, releasing after successful album on Fat 93 Wreck Chords. Ambiguously shifting between balls-out hardcore and sing-along pop-punk, Good Riddance never repeats themselves but in one way - they always deliver high-quality punk rock straight from the heart.

Bigwig

Bigwig are an amazing band formed in about 1995 and since then they've released 3 awesome (like wine) getting better with the . Their first effort "Unmerry Melodies"

is a very consistent release with some highlights out there. Their second work "Stay Asleep" is considered by many their best album because of its variety and of course 92 because all the songs are great but then they surprised us even more with An Invitation To Tragedy, another masterpiece with technically better (if possible) riffing, great melodies and 13 close to perfection songs. Having gotten through some line-up changes (something that's been happening through their whole career, only keeping an original member:

singer/guitarist Tom Petta) they'll be releasing a new album this year hopefully.

The Adverts

With their raw, enthusiastic immaturity, the Adverts were a bright, though short-lived, light of the punk era, distinguished by the fact that their , Gaye Advert, was one of the first female stars of punk rock. After they (barely) mastered one chord, the Adverts began playing at

London's Roxy Club in 1976, where they quickly came to the attention of the Damned's guitarist . James offered the band an opening on the Damned's tour and directed them 91 toward . Stiff released their self-deprecating debut single, "One Chord Wonders," in 1977, when the band could still barely play, but when they released their second single, the disturbingly funny "Gary Gilmore's Eyes," the group rocketed into the U.K. Top 20 in a storm of controversy. The Adverts' first album, Crossing the Red Sea With the Adverts, fulfilled the

single's promise, but the second, 1979's Cast of Thousands, sounded like they poured all of their musical ideas into their first album; the group broke up the following year.

Rudiments

Another Asian Man Records band, also from the , that I like to describe as meets Operation Ivy. They are pretty crazy in their songs, and have silly/funny lyrics. Most of

90 their can be found on the album Circle Our Empire, but you can also hear some great punk on their album Bitch Bitch Bitch

The Real McKenzies

Formed in 1992 in , BC, , The Real McKenzies broke down punk barriers by

mixing their fast paced punk with music from their Scottish heritage. They weren't just a punk band with bagpipes, they were a full out Scottish band. They would play perfect punk with a scottish flare rendenitions of old Scottish classics such as Scotland the Brave, Flower of

89 Scotland, and Scots Wa'Hae. They also used their own writing skills and inspirition from old Robbie Burns to make thier own music that could soon enter into Scottish folk tradition. Real McKenzies became famous on Joey Shithead's Sudden Death Records, but have since signed to Fat Wreck for a new record that all who love Scotland will love.

Lars Frederiksen and the Bastards

Punk band formed by Rancid's guitarist which is only slightly better then Rancid, which isn't

88 saying much

Toy Dolls

Long-lived British punk band with zany, witty lyrics, and guitar lines that would make a metalhead blush, you cannot help but love the . They have put out great album after

87 great album, and have recently done a tour that was dubbed their final tour and released an album titled "Our Last Album?" And if this is the last from this band, it will be a sad day.

Cockney Rejects

It was the song Oi Oi Oi that gave the genre they belong to its name. They were one of most influential oi bands along with and . They played loud, brash, working class music, and had a irrelevent sense of humour. Their first albums were

86 titled, jokingly, Greatest Hits Volume 1, and Volume 2. Then Their third was entitled Greatest Hits Volume 3 (Live and Loud), which was actually recorded in a studio with an audience. The band are legends in their own right and should be reconized by any true Oi fan.

D.O.A.

Canadian punk rock legends DOA formed shortly after the punk explosion moved throughout the world. With scenese sprouting up in , LA, and other places, it was only a matter of

time before Canada had it's own punk scene going. Lead by Joey Shithead, DOA set out to revolutiuonlize the scene in their country and their neighbours south of the border. Shithead was never afriad to express his political opinions, and it landed him in jail once. DOA later went

85 on to colaporate on one of 's first outings after DK, releasing Last Scream of the Missing Neighbours with Jello on vocals instead of Shithead. Shithead took another cue from Jello, and entered himself into politics, running as a canidate in Canadian provincial and civic elections from the Green Party. Shithead has also released his own book, entitled I, Shithead and DOA has recently gotten their own day in their home province of British Coloumbia

Gang of Four

Formed in 1977 by journalist and college students Dave Allen and Hugo Burnham, gang of Four is considered one of the first post-punk bands. In their 1979 debut Entertainment!, gang of Four fused punk fury with rythmns and angular guitars.Their next releases Solid

84 Gold abandoned this approach in favor of slower paced almost dub-like songs and the usually political rantings.The last few release by the band were synthesized dribble, and did not sell well. the band split in 1984.

Good Clean Fun

Good Clean Fun are straight outta DC, four vegan straight-edge guys who enjoy a laugh and

have listened to Start Today one too many times. Drawing on influences as diverse as , , , Gorilla Biscuits, 7 Seconds and Gorilla Biscuits, Good 83 Clean Fun know the true meaning of hardcore-punk, along and having a good time. They've travelled the world spreading their message of positivity and unity and still retained their sense of humour. How many other vegan bands would ahve a song called "It's Time to Beat the Meat"?

Agnostic Front

New York Hardcore legends! These guys from New York help pioneer the hardcore-punk scene

in , and helped create the NYHC sub-genre. With heavy influences from 77 punk, oi music, and working class lifestyle, blends hard hitting hardcore with blue collar 82 lyrics that can be enjoyed by anyone who likes hard-hitting in your face music. 's voice is unmistakeable in any song. Released a new album not so long ago, where they moved from their hardcore-punk roots to a more metal influenced style, but they still made a golden album.

Wire

Wire was one of the most adventurous bands to be birthed by the English punk explosion. Wire's ever changing sound distanced them from the pack of early punk-rock. Wire was also a 81 eccentric live act, often playing songs that weren't even recorded yet, not ones fans were expecting to hear. By the demise of the band, Wire had been a huge influence on post-punk and indie bands well into the next decade.

The Casualties

The Casualties formed in 1990, wanting to bring back the spirit of 80s Punk. In the first year the line up changed often. The Casualties stabilized long enough in the fall of 1991 to put together

an EP, 40 Ounce Casualty. By next year the band was touring and their hometown NYC fan base kept growing. A second EP, Drinking Is Our Way of Life. The four-track EP was never issued, but later was added into the band's 1999 release, Early Years 1990 – 1995. With the line up still

80 changing the group put together a third EP, ****in' Way of Life, in 1995. By 1996 the band put out its first full-length album, For the Punx. . Since then they have completed “Underground Army" (1998) “Stay Out Of Order" (2000 EP: "Who's In Control?" (2000) "Die Hards" (2001) "On The Front Line" (2004) "En La Linea Del Frente" (2005) The line up today stands as Rick- Bass, Jorge- Vocals, Meggers- Drums, Jake- Guitar

The Germs

Mediocre LA punk band whose lead singer is worshipped by the same morons who worship Sid 79 Vicious, and for similar reasons, for being a dead junkie who was pretty much useless to the music world.

The Exploited

Forerunners of the UK82 scene and pioneers, were legends to the

punk scene. Bred from the oppressive Reagan/Thatcher world era, The Exploited were angry, anti-authority, outspoken punks looking to change something. When everybody thought punk had died after '77, Wattie shouted in his infamous snarl, that , and The

78 Exploited proved it. They were fast and hard hitting, their songs could apply to the youth growing up in this era. They were the voice of the common people and the working class youth. Although they no longer play much punk, they still tour, and are still loved by many fans and still gain more and more fans as they age.

Flux of Pink Indians

Forming in the very early 80's after the Epileptics' breakup this group a long with commenced the greatest movement in punk history. It was the anarcho-peace punk mentality.

This band were known for their passion and genuity within the scene. They never promoted their records because profit wasn't what it was about to them. This band was very powerful and also not very open-minded as many anarcho bands were. There highlight album "Strive to

77 Survive (Causing Least Suffering Possible)" was a huge hit. However they experimented more with their other two full lengthed releases. Through such passion and energy this band were the biggest punks around. They weren't about the money they were about the message and the genuity of punk rock. They disbanded in 1987.

A Global Threat

Maine Street punks who share members and a sound with the Unseen. A band who puts out many good records such as Until We Die and What the **** Will Change. A good band, along

76 with The Unseen, to get into street punk with. They are planning a tour after not touring for awhile.

Pennywise

"Political" punk band that releases albums that usually all sound the same. Recently released a

75 new album. A first punk band for a lot of people.

Aus-Rotten

A newer band from this crust band had some of the most talented lyrics ever. They

combine extremely detailed social and political dictions into a rhyming, rhytmic and yet melodic sounding music. How this band does it amazes me. I'm sure they have inspired many of punks 74 to become way more socially and politically aware because there is such corruption going on that we need to stand against. This band has been a very big bang and influence in the crust community and despite their disbandment they are continually listened to and respected. The lead singer now sings for "Behind Enemy Lines" and continues his lyrical legacy.

Less Than Jake

Amazing third wave ska coming out of the depths of florida. ripping bass lines and amazing section make this band an absolute must-know for any modern . Alo more punk feel 73 than most ska, they really got themselves a unique sound with alternating vocals and sing along choruses. They've started to go down-hill lately with whinier vocals and songs about some chick breaking soon, but they still hold my heart with songs like "Jay Frenzal" and "A.S.A.O.K."

The Unseen

With their release of Lower Class Crucifixion the band was immediately on the road of success.

This powerful and possibly greatest material proved the band worthy of popularity and well deserved shows. This band carried along with them a great passion for punk rock and it showed 72 with their stage energy. The Unseen truly matured as their records released putting more passion and time into their albums. They are now one of the most prestigous, popular and well liked bands between punk and hardcore fans. They are truly a great band in the scene and will probalby always be within it.

Fear

Fear Began at the dawning of the punk in 1977 although their style (along with the and Flag) helped to define LA style hardcore. Led by 's destinctive vocals, and

71 their fast agressive music, Fear are remembered as some of the founding fathers of .

The World/Inferno Friendship Society

The most original punk band out there today. World/Inferno Friendship Society play a mixture of, well, just about everything wrapped up with in-your-face punk attitude. Filled with horns, and just about any other instrument they can get their hands on. WIFS have quickly

70 build-up a large following with their crazy gypsy/folk/circus/punk music with Jack Terricloth's distinctive vocals singing about every subject under the sun. They are the saviours of punk rock.

Buzzcocks

Early punks, the were known for their poppy lyrics and catchy hooks, and known by

69 some as one of the first pop-punk bands.

Dag

Dag Nasty is a melodic emotionally charged hardcore band from Washington D.C.

formed in 1985 from the ashes of Minor Threat and Bloody Mannequin Orchestra. , , Shawn Brown, and Roger Marbury decided they wanted to push the boundaries of 68 hardcore music. Not being limited to a four chord, one minute speed fest, they released Can I Say in 1986. Just a year later they pumped out another emocore classic, Wig Out at Denko's with a new bassist, Doug Carrion, and singer, Peter Cortner. Dag Nasty will always be, along with , Embrace, and Gray Matter, The founders of emocore.

Mission of Burma

The short lived Mission of Burma was one of the best punk bands to come out of in the late 70's. Mission of Burma's music was ahead of its time, incorporating odd time shifts, tape 67 loops (then, almost unheard of), and played with the fury of such bands as and the . When their popularity peaked, the band untimely disband because of Roger Miller's hearing problems. The band unexpectedly re-formed in 2002, delighting fans.

Citizen Fish

"Successfully unsuccessful since 1989." This band from the former frontman of Subhumans,

Dick Lucas comes. They have been putting out material on their from the late 80's and are still to present day. Dick has took his intelligent anarcho lyrics from Subhumans and his 66 ska-punk from Culture Shock and formed them into the ultime band known as . This band is the leader of ska-punk today and still tours and Dick Lucas shows no sign of giving in. The passion found in this band is truly remarkable. Citizen Fish is one of the best bands to ever come out of the ska and punk scene. Afterall, nothing can beat anarcho lyrics with catchy beats.

MC5

Kick Out the Jams mother****er was the call to arms for this early punk . Along side fellow natives, The Stooges, MC% helped establish the raw hard sound of punk rock, 65 and also helped blend in some of the revolutionary politics of todays modern scene. Backed by the radical "White Panther Party", MC5 set out to give their politics and loud brash music to the world.

Reagan Youth

Reagan Youth is the definition of punk. In the 80's the played all over the

state and city of New York spreading their ideas of equality and justice. Reagan Youth proved to be very influential to upcoming bands in the New York HC scene. Dave Insurgent led the band 64 well until his drug addiction got the best of him. His life was a mess, his mother died in a car accident and his wife was sexually abused and killed. He overdosed on heroin and thus was the end for Reagan Youth. If anything this is in memory of Dave. It shows that even the best of them can't live on for ever. R.I.P Dave Insurgent, Reagan Youth has inspired many.

Patti Smith

Known to many as punk rock's poet laurete. is arguably one of pinoneers of punk.

She began as wanting to do poetry readings, and she turned into a legend in the eyes of many punks. She used her knack for poetry and imagery to write punk songs that were worth 63 remembering, not for their music, but for their lyrics. Patti was one of the first female punks and she pushed boundries for many that followed her. The punk scene would be very different, and lacking a lot, had Patti not come along and gave us her heart and soul in her poetry and punk music.

Adolescents

One of Southern 's best-loved hardcore bands, the Adolescents helped establish the blueprint for Orange County punk, along with Agent Orange and . Although 62 their music was the most standard-issue of the three, the Adolescents' blazing energy and quintessential teenage snottiness gave them an instant connection with their audience, and defied their upbringing in California's bastion of staid .

T.S.O.L.

LA Hardcore punks who played with a poppier sound similar to some of the British before them, TSOL (standing for True Sounds of Liberty) became popular in their own local scene, but never

61 caught on anywhere else. Known for their almost gothic imagery and overall image, and their song about necrophilia, Code Blue.

Richard Hell & The Voidoids

Richard Hell and The Voidoids formed in 1976 by Richard Hell (formerly of Television, and and on bass and vocals, Marc Bell on drums, with Robert

Quine and both playing guitar. They released their first album, "Blank Generation" in 1977 and it became an instant classic. Richard Hell was and still is a very talented poet, and 60 these songs best showcase his abilities. The band went on to release two more albums, "" which had a few classic tracks (1978) and "Funhunt" (1979) which was a live album. Neither, however, was close to the level of "Blank Generation". The band broke up soon after the release of "Funhunt". Richard Hell has gone back to writing poetry and

committed suicide in March, 2004

One of the many Hellcat Psychobilly bands. And just like the other Hellcat psychobilly bands, they are nothing like any of the early psychobilly bands. They are still good in their own right

59 and have introduced many people to psychobilly who later moved on to the other legends of the genre

Discharge

Discharge were formed in Stoke-on-Trent in 1977 by two brothers, Terry (Tez) Roberts (vocals) and Tony (Bones) Roberts (guitar) Roy (Rainy) Wainright and a drummer called Hacko (real

name unknown). The band got going properly in 1979 when vocalist Kelvin Morriss (Cal) joined. They scrapped all their old songs and wrote new ones, eventually signing to and releasing the single “Realities of War” in March 1980. They went through several line-up

58 changes with longest standing members, Rainy leaving in 1986 and Cal in 2001, although there was little activity in the early to mid nineties. The band reformed for a tour in 2003/4 with Rat from on vocals, and may still be going. They play chaotic 80s hardcore, with essential listening being their debut LP “Hear Nothing, See Nothing, Say Nothing”. Mostly stolen from http://www.discharge.co.uk

New York Dolls

Cross-dressing, drug using, glam punks, the New York Dolls were punk before punk had a name. Formed shortly after the VU explosion, the New York Dolls were pioneers in their own 57 right. Though the band quickly dissolved, everyone who saw them wanted to what they did, they wanted to be punks, they wanted the drugs, they wanted to dress up like women. Member Johnny Thunders went on to form his own band, also legendary

Link 80

Asian Man Records skacore straight out of the famous East Bay. The band is currently on hiatus and has been since 2002, but most fans anxiously await their return. , although having 56 one name, is basically two bands: Nick Traina Link 80 and Ryan Noble Link 80. Same band, two very different sounds, yet always played that good ol' skacore. Punk vocals and hardcore breakdowns with an occasional ska and many catchy horn lines

U.K. Subs

Raging from the 70's it's a wonder what this band has accomplished within it's reign that is still

accomplishing today. Charlie Harper is old and worn but he still continues to tour and put out records. This band is so old and so talented at what they do. No matter what they continue with 55 what they. Which is playing pure, unbridled punk rock. Their best album in my opinion was "A.W.O.L" but there is so much material by them that it's hard to keep track. Any true punk fan would give credit and respect to UK Subs because they are a great leader in punk rock today and will always be.

A Wilhelm Scream

Formerly Smackin' Isiash, this band are legends of . One of the more popular bands in the genre, and a must-listen for everybody who enjoys punk and hardcore. They 54 currently have released 3 solid albums, all of which have something somebody will like. Melodic hardcore is the saving wave of hardcore and punk, and these guys are ahead of the pack, pathing the way for many other great bands

Anti-Flag

This Pittsburgh punk rock band started out as a trio with , Andy Flag, and Pat Thetic

(goofy names lolz!). Their first two albums blended their passion for politics with their sense of humor. Soon Chris Head was brought in as lead guitarist and Chris #2 was their new bassist. 53 Justin and #2's vocals compliment each other perfectly, supported by furious bass lines and percussion and powerful guitars. , their most recent album, has gotten a whole new generation into punk and pop-punk with Turncoat's . Anti-Flag's poppy and political songs have gotten many started on punk.

Against All Authority

Against All Authority is a fast-paced, loud, aggressive and hardcore-influenced ska-punk band from Miami, Florida. They are among some of the finest "skacore" bands that third wave ska 52 fans listen to today. Their most recent release was an eight track split with back in April 2005. As of now they are recording new music in their hometown, playing a show or two around the Florida area.

X

The band 'X' was formed in 1977, and became an early leader in the LA punk scene; fusing an

artsy punk style with some mild and country influences. The original members were Christine "Exene" Cervenka as vocalist, on bass and vocals, DJ Bonebreak on drums, 51 and on guitar. Zoom was later replaced by when he quit the band in '86. The band formed an odd relationship with Ray Manzarek of the Doors, who produced their first album '' (1980), as well as lending his keyboarding talents to a few songs. The band continued recording through the 80's, and still tours occasionaly with its original lineup.

Kid Dynamite

Formed in '97 from ex-members of Lifetime, this Philly hardcore band is one of the most amazing things to be heard. East Coast hardcore punk has never had a better 50 band than Kid Dynamite. With songs topping out at 2 minutes and beginning at 20 seconds they are the epitomy of Short, Loud, Fast. They only stuck around until 2000 and put out three records which all belong in any hardcore fans catalouge.

Lower Class Brats

Clockwork punk at it's best, Austin, street punk legends, Lower Class Brats

brings a charged Clockwork Orange influence to their hard hitting punk and snotty vocals. LCB started out in Austin, Texas in 1995 in order to eradicte Austin of crappy 49 music and bring back good ole fashioned punk. LCB continues their conquest to bring punk to the world with constant touring and releasing great album after great album. These droogs won't be running away anytime soon, not until they bring their punk sound to everybody

The Filaments

The Filaments hailed from essex, UK and played brass heavy punk rock. There debut

album "skull and " was released in 2001 on Young Blood Records. They later signed to Household Name records and then went on to release their second 48 album "....What's Next" in July 2004. Unfortunately, the band have now split, playing their last gig at the leg of the City Invasion tour on 10th July this year. Although probably not the most technical band around, they toured solidly and wrote catchy songs.For fans of bands like the Casualties.

Conflict

Dubbed the "kings of punk" conflict rightfully deserves this name. Their notorious release "The Ungovernable Force" is undoubtedly one of the greatest punk albums

from this legendary anarcho-peace band. Conflict remain extremely political and socially-aware of demonstrations and protests that they still attend just like they 47 scream in songs. This band has been shooting out material since the very early 80's and doesn't seem to be hinting a sign of letting out. This band will always be together and will always rule the punk planet. They will be in the crowd protesting this unjust government and will be on top of the justice that has been given. Conflict are the

kings of punk rock.

The Damned

The Damned formed in 1976 by singer Dave Vanian, drummer , bassist , and guitarist Brian James. They were the first British band to release a single ("") and also the first to release and album ("Damned

46 Damned Damned". Since 1976, they've broken up and reformed many times, and released 9 albums. During the mid-eighties, however, they moved away from their punk-sound to more gothic type of music that they continue to play today.

Television

Televison formed in 1972 by friends Richard Hell and Tom Veralaine with

on drums under the name The . In 1973, they changed their name to Television. Richard Hell left the band in 1975 before the release of an album. In 1977 45 with on bass and another guitarist, Richard Lloyd playing, Television released their first album "". This album is thought by many to be one of the greatest in history. They've released 6 albums, 3 live, the latest being their self- titled release from 1992. Television is one the most innovative bands of al time.

The Velvet Underground

Known as the grandfathers of punk rock, these New York rockers were revolutionary for their time. While the world was filled with the flowerchild mindset and lots of

bands singing about love, peace, and happiness, , , and the rest of were ready to do something different. Instead of singing 44 about all the stuff, they sang about herion abuse, lives of prostitues and drug dealers, and many other subjects no one else dared the tread on. Backed by for recording money, show money, and of course drugs, they lead the punk revolution. Their album did not sell very many copies, but every person who picked up

a copy, started a band. That is saying something for these legends

Crass

"Fight war, not wars." This band is absolutely incredible. I mean honestly they are the creator of a MOVEMENT. They started anarcho-peace which has made an influence on countless numbers of bands. When you think about people in history who made

positive movements there has always been a significant change. This band isn't credited enough for all the changes that it has made, but other than that they put out positive, socially and politically aware music. What I love about Crass is they wanted

43 to express themselves so they did it in a complete diverse and unique way. Crass matured so much as a band and had many different looks on things. They believed in peace and equality, yet freedom for all. Their release "The Feeding of 5,000" could go down in the books as one of the greatest punk albums ever. Crass is such a unique band. They didn't even know how to play their instruments, but they didn't care because they had something to say. And look what that started.

Sham 69

Oi legends along the same ranks of Cock Sparrer, Cockney Rejects, and . Named for grafitti in their hometown of , Sham 69 formed at the same time as other punk legends and . Unlike these other two

42 bands, Sham played charged pub-worthy to be enjoyed by the working class and the emerging culture. Responsible for the oi scene to follow, Sham 69 were true legends

Suicidal Tendencies

Thrash influenced so-cal hardcore-punk band lead a major hand in marrying punk and skateboard culture in the early 80s. The band attracted both

41 punks and metalheads to their shows, bridging a gap between two groups who usually have a dislike for each other

Hüsker Dü

Formed in in 1979, Husker Du played a melodic version of hardcore punk,

experementing and pushing there sound to new lengths with there unconventional musical and songwriting style. Often cited as the core of the bands style is the songwriting and singing, centered around the angry and agressive lyrics and vocals of

40 guitarist and the melodic songwriting of drummer . In nine years as a band the Husker Du trio of Mould, Hart and the bassist had made a huge impact on the dwindling punk and hardcore scenes and there now over twenty year old records continue to influence alternative bands to this day.

G.B.H.

Short for Grevious Bodily Harm, these street punk legends were known for their fast 39 music and perfect blend of punk and a little hardcore, and lots of attitude. Orginally called Charged GBH to distinguish themselves from another band called GBH

Sonic Youth

Influnced by New Yorks "no Wave" scence, got their start by creating

records of a slight avant-garde flavor, utilizing alternative , and other things to achevie wild effects. Soon Sonic youth took this approach and combined it 38 with the sounds od such bands as The Stooges and the New York Dolls. With each succending realses Sonic Youth's sound was constantly evolving and are still going strong into the new millienum. Group members include: Lee Ranaldo Kim Gordon,,Jim O'Rourke, ,and Bob Bert.

AFI

AFI started in the summer of 1991. Their first release: Answer that and Stay Fashionable, released on , was a fast paced punk album,as was their 37 second album: !, whilst there next albums would be more rock influenced, and evry change they've made has been good. AFI are still going strong and have a new album coming out soon.

Catch 22

In 1996 while Tomas Kalnoky and Chris Greer met Kevin Gunther at a local record

store, they discovered a mutual love of music, namely punk & ska. They wanted to make a newer sound that combined their love of both types of music. They played local shows around New Jersey and had a fast growing fan base of this new sound.

36 The band signed on to in late 1997. Within a year became one of the top-ten selling Victory albums of all time. After Tomas left, and a newer, more energetic line-up. Catch 22 took to the road with Ten Foot Pole, for what became their biggest tour yet.

Flogging Molly

The band legendary for their mixing of irish folk and punk music, . Formed by the only actual Irisih member, Dave King, the band made success for doing 35 something that hadn't been done since , and doing it just as well as their Irish counterparts. The band combines Irish folktunes and insturmentation with the speed and energy of punk, making for a fun mix.

Strike Anywhere

Richmond, VA, although well renowned for it's great punk/hardcore scene, has never had a finer band than come from it. Perfectly blending all the 34 agitation and vigor of old-school hardcore with the melodic sensibilities of new-school punk, these five boys are already on the verge of world-domination with their political melodicore.

Rise Against

Rise Against are in in-your-face melodic hardcore band with highly political lyrics. A perfect blend of guitar-driven hardcore with a lot of melody, riffs, and solos, which

33 are rarely seen in hardcore today. A truly unique band, no wonder they are edging ever closer to mainstream success.

The Dead Milkmen

The Dead Milkmen,parodying almost everything, from Patti Smith all the way to 80's

,were one of the most underrated punk bands of the 80s. Formed in ,originally was: Joe Jack Talcum, Dave Blood(RIP), Dean Clean, and 32 Rodney Anonymous. The Dead Milkmen brought in comedy, sometimes with a subtle message, and lasted from 1987-1995. Their first published album Big Lizard in My Backyard is an essential that everyone should own. On March 10, 2004, sadly, Dave Blood chose to end his life.

Social Distortion

Social Distortion was formed in 1978 by frontman in Orange County,

California. Their first album, Mommy’s Little Monster, debuting in 1983, showed Social Distortion to be a standard melodic punk band, but by the time their self titled album came out in 1990, they started leaning more towards the and

31 genres. Albums subsequent to this, including 1992’s Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell and 2004’s Sex, Love, and Rock’ n’ Roll, proved that Social Distortion can be a very flexible and innovative band, and that Johnny style country and the Clash style punk may look bad on paper, but it sounds great.

7 Seconds

One of the longest last California hardcore-punk bands, 7 Seconds are usually a band mentioned in the same breath as other hardcore-punk legends like Minor Threat, and 30 other bands like Youth Brigade. The band signed to BYO records in 1982, and released 3 LPs, then signed to Side 1 records and released other albums. They still tour today, with the only orginal membe

The Suicide Machines

The Suicide Machines is a band out of Detroit that plays a variety of punk-related

music including: punk, ska, hardcore and often a mix of two or three of the different genres. They are most renown for their first full-length album Destruction by Definition which even had the song New Girl featured on the first game.

29 They recently released another album titled War Profiteering is Killing Us All that so far has received positive feedback from their fans. They've nearly finished another US tour (West Coast) and plan on playing shows in Australia and Japan in October, so if you live out there them out.

Cock Sparrer

Formed in 1975, Cock Sparrer were one of the first oi bands, sprouting up even before

the British punk wave had flowed through. Their songs were meant for the Cockney working class who frequented the pubs after a hard's day work and were ready to get 28 drunk and have a good time with these fellas. Sparrer helped bring about all the oi bands around today, having nearly every modern oi band cite them as an influence. Them, along with Sham 69, Cockney Rejects, and Angelic Upstarts were the pioneers of the working class music of Oi!

The Adicts

The Adicts are on of the catchiest pop-punk bands to ever emerge from the scene. Starting in late 70's , their music made pop-punk cool for street punks to like. They soon became known for catchy, dark, and funny songs like Mary Whitehouse and

27 Viva La Revolution. They've kept with their original line-up since the beginning, adding 2 new members, and continue to tour play the music they've been playing for almost 30 years. Their simple and catchy (yet still punX!) music is still relevant now.

The Stooges

The original Stooges lineup formed in Detroit during 1968 with Ron Asheton on guitar, his brother Scott on drums, David Alexander on bass and Iggy singing. Their first album came in 1969 and had, in my opinion, two classics, "1969" which featured a

psychedelic intro that is still unmistakable today and "Now I Wanna Be Your Dog" which is just a cool song. Later they came out with Fun House, their sophomore 26 album. Both albums, however, pale in comparison to their 1973 album "" which had Ron Asheton on bass and James Williamson on guitar. Just about every song on the album is a classic, and became a blueprint for a 1000's of bands to come. After that, The Stooges broke up, Iggy went on to do some stuff with , most memorably the song, "Lust for Life", but nothing close to what he had with The

Stooges.

Circle Jerks

Circle Jerks was formed from the joining of former Black Flag frontman, , and former guitarist in 1979. The band combined the 25 rebellious attitude of 77 punk with the emerging hardcore music to make a mix we all know as hardcore-punk. Their debut album Group Sex, contained 14 tracks, none breaking the 2 minute mark. They played hard and fast and are loved by many.

Subhumans

This band commenced in the raging anarcho-punk scene. They gave Flux a demo tape and Colin loved it. They released their first couple EP's and demos on Spiderleg (Flux's Label). Then the band created their own label 'Bluurg' and continued to march positively through the scene

with amazing feedback. They still tour now however they disbanded in 1985. Dick Lucas, the frontman, is one of the most interesting and definitely innovative person of all the anarcho bands. He went on to other side projects like Citizen Fish and Culture

24 Shock which were both successful. These bands had way more of a ska feel to them. There's more to this band than just a couple of albums or them breaking up in 1985, they have such a magic to the way and what they put on their CD's. This band got me into punk with their great music and intelligent lyrics. And I bet it didn't just get me into punk. Subhumans are one the greatest bands to ever come into the anarcho scene. And they still play shows and still continue to do what they love. How many bands can say that? Minutemen

Formed in San Pedro California by Singer/guitarist D. Boon, bassist , and

drummer . The Minutemen combined funk, free , and hardcore punk to create an unique blend of punk rock. Most of their songs were a minute or less and 23 lyrics included attacks on right wing politicians.With every new Minutemen releases their musicianship improved and songwriting skills got better. The peak of their life is Double Nikcles on the Dime, a double album.All of this was brought to a halt in 1985 with the tragic death of singer D. Boon in a van accident.

Refused

Can I Scream? formed in Umeå, in 1992 with the original view of

incorporating their Marxist ideals into the blueprint of a fast paced hardcore band. After releasing strong LPs "This Just Might Be The Truth" and "Songs To Fan The Flames of Discontent" they released "The Shape Of Punk To Come." It was the most

22 influential hardcore album of the nineties, containing amazing liner notes and "New Noise" One of the best hardcore songs ever written. Whether it truly was the shape of punk to come is debatable but Refused definitely raised the bar for all hardcore bands to follow.

Fugazi

Perhaps one of the most important band's of its genre, post hardcore outfit

released one excellent album after another until their indefinite hiatus in 2001. Although they ventured into the indie genre more on their last release, , 21 it still showed the extraordinary musicianship of the band, with MacKaye and Picciotto's interlocking guitars and 's bass playing bordering on the virtuosic. Fugazi have retained their place in the hearts of many fans who view them as not only the best band in their genre, but as the best band of the decade.

Stiff Little Fingers

Known as the Irish Clash, Stiff Little Fingers were plagued by this comparision. While similar in being a punk band from the 70s that played politically charged music and had a love for , while The Clash were trying new styles and were able to do

20 new things, SLF was first and foremost a punk band. Their debut album, Inflammible Material, was a masterpiece for early punk rock and is still considered a great album today.

The Misfits

In 1977 a band would change punk forever. This band was the Misfits. Formed by

Glenn Danzig and Jerry Only, this band set out to make an impresion...and they did. Although Danzig, the original lead singer, left in 1980, but The Misfits returned in 19 1997 without Danzig,and with a new member, Doyle Von Frankenstein, and released "American Pshyco. The Misfits have influenced uncountable numbers of bands, all the way from AFI to Marilyn Manson and started the genre we know today as "".

Gorilla Biscuits

Rising out of the militant hardcore scene of New York City in the late , Gorilla

Biscuits are often contested as the definitive band of their genre. Their only LP, Start Today, is often contested as hardcore's definitive release. With a positive message in 18 their music opposing the all too evident elitism in the scene, Gorilla Biscuits gained popularity in a number of underground circles. However, as is the case with far too many talented bands, they did not become known on a wider scale until after their untimely demise, only managing to release an LP and a self titled EP.

NOFX

I'm not a huge NOFX fan other than "The Decline" but if there is one band that should be comemorated on this list, it is NOFX. This band started what we know as

political/social pop-punk today. They created a whole new perspective of punk and for that they are dubbed innovative and true. But aside from making great music this band has contributed so much to the punk scene that they have done their share in

17 the community with flying colors. They have given so many bands a chance to voice their expressions while maintaining respectable albums that they have released. This band is not only extremely influential but they are the fathers of the punk rock scene we know today. All I have to say is, props to NOFX, whom do what they love and help others do what they love just as much. Props, NOFX.

Dropkick Murphys

What do you get when you mix in booze, traditional , rowdy punk rock,

more booze, and a fat guy named Spicy? You get Boston legends Dropkick Murphy’s. Dropkick started in 1996 in a barber shops basement. The band has changed up a bit sense its humble beginnings: a new singer, new pipest, new guitarist and new

16 /whistle player. But still Dropkick Murphy’s stick to what they do best, playing loud blue collar music with a Celtic kick with lyrics that can hit home. What separates Dropkick Murphy’s from most bands is pride, for their city, friends, family, Bruins, this bands all about pride, alcohol and music.

Choking Victim

In ’93 , Erza. Alec, and Skwert formed . Not much happened until ’99 when CV was signed to Epitaph. Soon after they began recording for their debut album. After one day of recording CV broke up, but the material they recorded

15 was good enough to turnout “No Gods, No Managers”, the only major release for the ska-punk/hardcore, atheist, politically charged foursome. Not too long after, Leftover Crack was formed by Stza, Erza, Alec and a new drummer.

Rancid

One of the frontrunners for the mid 90s punk revival, Rancid were formed from the ashes of legendary ska band Operation Ivy. They recruited on drums for 14 their first album, then for their 1994 smash hit Let's Go they recruited , which remains their line-up to the present. A highly influential band, Rancid will remain punk legends for years to come.

Leftöver Crack

Rising from the depths of Choking Victim comes one of the most innovative and creative ska-core bands to ever be heard. Leftover Crack mix everything from

Hardcore, Punk, Ska, , and even Classical to create some of the best ska- core albums ever heard. So far, singer Stza, guitarist Ezra, bassist Alec, and drummer 13 Ara, put out two albums (Mediocre Generica in 2001 and fusty walrus! World Trade in 2004.) Both albums bend the rules and hold strong messages about American politics and culture. Ever since the begining Leftover Crack put out some heavy ska-core tracks never leaving their N.Y.C. roots and never . There's the good...the bad...and the Leftover Crack.

Sex Pistols

The Sex Pistols, love them or hate them, are what the public eye has equated with punk since in conception. Formed by Wally Nightingale, , and under the name 'The Strand' in 1972, they later added Glen Matlock to the band, but the lineup never achieved any success. In 1975, Malcolm McLaren took over as manager of the band, kicking out Wally, and recruiting Johnny Rotten. The band was

renamed the Sex Pistols. While they may not of started punk rock, as some say they did, the Sex Pistols soon brought it into the public eye with a single, 'Anarchy in the 12 UK', and a string of tabloid covers. Glen was kicked out of the band and replaced by the musically talentless . With another controversial single, 'God Save the Queen', and an album, 'Never Mind the Bollocks...", the Sex Pistols left for a US tour in early '78, during which Rotten quit the band onstage due to his constant feuds with

the controlling McLaren. McLaren tried to keep the band alive through gimmicks like recording with Ronnie Biggs, but the band was over. Although some will claim the Pistols were merely a manufactured band being steered by McLaren, their influence on the punk scene of the 70's, as well as the genre as a whole, can not be denied. Against Me!

Fat Wreck favourites Against Me! have been accused of a whole lot of things over the

years. People with any sense accuse them of playing some of the best punk music to come out in a while, heavily influenced by the folk and anarcho movements and fueled with anger, irony and pure passion for what they do. Their seminal LP Reinventing Axl

11 Rose exhibits an exciting new take on the genre and remains a favourite release of fans. Their songs range from political satires to poignant , never losing their driving force that has kept them going through the years they have graced the Florida punk scene.

Bad Brains

During the late 70's, former artists Dr. Know (Gary Miller), , and joined with singer H.R. (Paul Hudson) to create one of the most

hardcore punk bands to ever hit the face of the earth. Influenced by anything ranging from The Sex Pistols to Led Zepplin, put out some of the most amazing hardcore albums punk fans had ever heard before. After H.R. discovered his roots,

10 converting to the rastafarian religion and slowly converting the rest of the band, the four rasta-punks started putting reggae tracks into their albums, creating an amazing contrast between songs that had never been heard before. Mixing their rastafarian beliefs, and punk ethics Bad Brains put out some revolutionary hardcore tracks that no other band will ever come close to copy.

Propagandhi

Three Canadian agit-rockers formed a band in the early 90's and named it . The band has progressed over the years, going from bubble-gum anarchy-skate to inflammatory prog-thrash, always raising the bar of political

9 correctness, songwriting abilities and technical proficiency. One of the most influential acts in the Canadian punk scene, as well as the international arena, thanks to an unrelenting awareness and awe-inspiring live shows.

Streetlight Manifesto

Formed by Tomas of Catch 22, along with the sax player and bass player, joining with members of One Cool Guy and a new drummer. are hailed as one 8 of the greates ska-punk bands of this decade. With Tomas genius songwirting and lyrical skills with the playing ability of all the members, the bands make a ska-punk sound that is to be reckonned with. They even may be pioneers of a 4th wave.

Minor Threat

What's there to be said that everyone doesn't know already? Minor Threat helped to

form the way hardcore sounds today and influenced an entire generation with their philosophy, although legendary frontman Ian MacKaye first conceived 7 the idea when in the band . Such classic songs as Out Of Step, In My Eyes, Seeing Red and of course, Straight Edge remain favourites among all fans of the genre even today, with the band's fury and energy still attracting listeners today.

Black Flag

Black Flag was one of the most influential hardcore bands of the 80's. Black Flag are credited with kick starting the underground movement in the United Staes with the devleopment of SST records. Black Flag toured relentlessly, influencing countless

6 bands where ever they went. Their music filrted with heavy metal, experimental noise, and even free jazz at some points, but are still considered the definitive hardcore band.

Operation Ivy

Ska gods Operation Ivy formed around March 1987, when Matt and Lint's () band, Basic Radio broke up. After only being around for two years, and 5 only releasing one album, Energy, Operation Ivy called it a day, playing their final show at the place where it all began, the Gillman Street club, in the home town of Berkeley, .

Ramones

Starting out in the New York City Underground in 1975, the played fast,

catchy punk rock, taking influence from the New York Dolls and the glue they sniffed. Many consider them the founders of punk and pop-punk. Their 3 chord songs were simple and catchy, everything that punk rock was supposed to be. The Ramones' first

4 album inspired a ton of bands across the Atlantic. They released great album after great album in the 70's and continued to play into the 90's. The Ramones weren't the most talented or political band, but that didn't stop them from making some amazing music.

Bad Religion

The most influential band to come out of the 80s hardcore-punk scene, are, very ironiclly, gods of their genre. They inspired many bands to start up their own bands, playing hardcore-punk and getting a scene started up in

there area. And with the founding of Epitaph by Bad Religion's own , these bands were able to be signed to a label that would respect their needs as 3 musicians and would help them get their name out there. Not only were Bad Religion pioneers in their genre, but they were also proof that punks could be intelligent. With many of the members going to college, finishing college, and even getting Master's degrees. And this intelligence shows in their music, provoding points of views on

religion and politics that could get any young punk thinking differently about the world around him. The Clash

The Clash were formed in 1976 when Mick Jones and Paul Simonon got Joe Strummer to quit the 101ers and join their band, soon to be known as the Clash. Their first album had Terry Chimes on drums and blended punk with rock 'n' roll and hints of ska

and reggae. Topper Headon soon came in as the band's permanent drummer, and in late 1979 was released and changed punk (and all music for that 2 matter) forever, moving away from their original sound. The Clash scored some pop hits with their fifth and final album, Combat Rock. With Joe Strummer's amazing songwriting, Mick Jones's talent as a guitarist and arranger, Paul Simonon's "screw Sid Vicious I don't want to play root notes" , all supported by Headon's

smooth percussion, the Clash defined and perfected punk by playing what they wanted to.

Dead Kennedys

The formed in 1978 in San Francisco, CA after Jello Biafra and Klaus Flouride answered East Bay Ray's ad to start a band in a local magazine. The 3 joined together with drummer Ted and started playing hardcore-punk together in the every

1 changing SF scene. DK is known by nearly all punk fans because of their revolutionary changes in hardcore-punk, bringing in politically charge lyrics with high quality musicianship. The Dead Kennedys changed hardcore-punk forever.