The are many words in the English language that are used out of context, or too often where it loses its meaning. That being said, there is one word that describes a band that is living history to the T. The word: quintessential. The genre: punk. The band: The Damned.
Formed in 1976, the Damned came up through the world of music at the time The Clash, Sex Pistols, The Adicts, The Jam, and Buzzcocks reigned supreme. The band has had lineup changes over the years, even having the legendary Chrissie Hynde as an early bandmate. Despite all the ups and downs the world of music and life could throw at them, the core of the band remains in place.
The band’s current lineup features original member Dave Vanian (Vocals), Captain Sensible (Guitar), Paul Gray (Guitar, bass), Monty Oxymoron (Keyboards) and Will Taylor (Drums). This lineup is simply magnetic on stage, and belt out an electrifying pulsating sound that is the backbone of their music.
Not a lot of bands can say that they inspired acts like Black Flag, Bad Brains, Green Day, The Offspring, and Guns N’ Roses. Motörhead’s Lemmy even said they are “the only real punk band.” With these type of accolades, it is no wonder they have fans around the world.
Even though they have been hitting the road over 40 years, we still can’t get enough of “Alone Again Or,” “Smash It Up,” “Problem Child,” “Life Goes On,” “Elouise,” “Neat, Neat, Neat,” and “New Rose.”
Truth is, The Damned has been one of those bands you can rely on to always be there no matter what is going on in their fans lives. although 1976 was a minute ago, they are still entertaining their fans, and Vanian being the ultimate showman he is engages with those fans with his passionate performances.
May 24, 2023
For the faithful, the news of a new album called “Darkadelic” went over very well. The album is due out April 28th, and the new single “The Invisible Man” is also doing well with fans.
For the locals, these living legends will come to town May 21st when they will play The Belasco in Los Angeles. Then on May 23rd they will take the stage at the House of Blues Anaheim before heading down to San Diego where they will play The Observatory (North Park) on May 25th. This will be a show you won’t want to miss. In the event you do miss them, you will have another chance as they play this year’s Punk Rock Bowling.
