crass

Crass: Punk’s Angry Anus

Crass weren’t your average punk band. They weren’t content with just bashing guitars and yelling about boredom. They were political activists, radical feminists, and, well, just plain angry. Born in the bleak, post-punk landscape of 1970s England, they spat out a sonic cocktail of anarcho-punk, noise rock, and spoken word, all wrapped up in a DIY aesthetic that screamed “fuck the system.”

Early Days: The band’s name, “Crass,” says it all. Formed by Penny Rimbaud (a former member of the band “The Last Supper,” known for their theatrical performances), Steve Ignorant, and others, Crass wasn’t afraid to confront the uncomfortable. Their music was a chaotic, guttural blend of hardcore punk and political rhetoric, taking on everything from nuclear war and animal rights to gender equality and the evils of capitalism.

Punk With a Purpose: While many punk bands focused on rebellious teenage angst, Crass channeled their anger into a platform for social change. Their lyrics were blunt, unapologetic, and dripping with cynicism. Songs like “Punk is Dead” and “Do They Owe Us a Living” became anthems for the disenfranchised and the downtrodden.

Funny, But Not Really:

• The “Crass” Name: Originally, they were going to be called “The Last Supper,” but they soon realized that name was a bit too preachy and heavy-handed. They settled on “Crass” because, well, it was just plain blunt and in-your-face.
• Ignorant’s Name: Steve Ignorant’s name wasn’t ironic. He was, in fact, a smart, well-read bloke who used his “ignorance” as a way to challenge social norms and expose hypocrisy.
• The “No-Sell” Policy: Crass famously refused to sell their records through traditional music retailers. They saw it as a form of corporate control and a way to suppress their message. Instead, they sold their music at gigs, through mail order, and even at anarchist squats.

Legacy: Crass may have been a short-lived band (they officially called it quits in 1984), but their impact on punk music and political activism is undeniable. They inspired a generation of punk bands and activists to speak out against injustice and fight for social change. Their legacy continues to resonate today, reminding us that music can be a powerful tool for revolution.

Crass wasn’t just a band; they were a movement. They proved that punk could be more than just noise and rebellion – it could be a force for good, a voice for the voiceless, and a relentless attack on the status quo.