Dead Kennedys were one of the most popular and important American hardcore punk bands of the late '70s/early '80s. They formed in San Francisco in 1978 when vocalist Jello Biafra answered a music paper advert placed by guitarist East Bay Ray, to be joined by bassist Klaus Flouride, and drummer Ted, later replaced (in 1980) by D.H. Peligro. There then followed a stream of classic punk anthems including “Kill the Poor," "Too Drunk to F**k," "California Über Alles" “Holiday in Cambodia" “Nazi Punks F**k Off” and “Police Truck”.
A classic and critically acclaimed debut LP, “Fresh Fruit For Rotting Vegetables” was followed by "In God We Trust, inc.”(EP), “Plastic Surgery Disasters / “Frankenchrist”, “Bedtime For Democracy” and “Give Me Convenience or Give Me Death”. Saddly the Kennedys called it a day back in 1986.
Now they’re back, without the inimitable Jello Biafra but with a worthy contender- Brandon Cruz, the singer from Dr. Know “I didn't write these lyrics, but I believe every f**king word of them." Despite looking a few years older, the same energy and conviction remain to spread the strongly political messages of the band to a new generation of fans. It works because the Kennedys’ are obviously enjoying every minute of their revival. East Bay Ray’s guitar playing is so distinctive that many of his riffs are instantly memorable. Brandon Cruz, for his part, sensibly avoids any Biafra-style proselytising, and merely gets on with belting out the songs and throwing himself about the stage.
The new line up has made believers of many skeptics; and keeps alive the spirit in which the DKs were founded for long time fans. Punk always has been controversial, so why stop? Come to this show and see for yourself. Until you know both sides of a story, you won't be able to make an intelligent decision.
Most importantly, the band play all the original songs that made them one of the most vital, controversial punk bands of all time.
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