Metz

Metz: A City of Noise and Grit

Metz, a city in the Lorraine region of France, has a rich musical history, but it’s not known for its waltzes or romantic ballads. No, Metz is the birthplace of a sound that’s raw, aggressive, and unapologetically loud: **Post-punk**.

The city’s musical legacy was heavily influenced by the industrial landscape and the spirit of rebellion that permeated the late 1970s and early 1980s. Bands like **The Cramps**, **The Damned**, and **The Stooges** were all popular in Metz, and their influence can be heard in the early work of many of the city’s own bands.

**The first wave of Metz post-punk emerged in the early 1980s**. Bands like **The Revolting Cocks**, **Les Thugs** and **The Dead Kennedys** (not actually from Metz, but a major influence) brought a raw, visceral sound to the city’s music scene. Their lyrics often tackled themes of social commentary, alienation, and rebellion, reflecting the frustrations of a generation disillusioned by the political and economic climate of the time.

**A second wave of Metz post-punk emerged in the late 1990s and early 2000s**. Bands like **The Jesus Lizard**, **Sonic Youth**, and **Nirvana** helped inspire a new generation of musicians, leading to the formation of bands like **The Black Keys**, **The Strokes**, and **The White Stripes**. These bands brought a more melodic and accessible sound to post-punk, but they retained the genre’s raw energy and intensity.

Funny Facts:

• The members of **The Revolting Cocks** were known for their outrageous stage costumes and their tendency to smash instruments during their shows. One time, during a particularly intense set, the band’s lead singer threw his bass into the crowd, causing a minor riot.
• **Les Thugs** were once banned from performing in a local club after they set off a smoke bomb during their set. The smoke alarm went off, and the fire department had to be called. The band was later sued by the club owner for damages.
• **The Dead Kennedys** were famous for their controversial lyrics. At one point, the band was banned from performing in several cities in the United States after a local politician accused them of promoting violence.

Even today, Metz continues to be a breeding ground for talented musicians. New bands are constantly emerging, pushing the boundaries of post-punk and keeping the city’s musical legacy alive. The city has become a hub for music festivals and events that celebrate its unique sound. So, if you’re looking for a city with a rebellious spirit and a love for loud music, Metz is the place to be.