First off nobody knows. I think this may be the most controversial music genre, because the only thing that may be more prominent in under ground music than types of punk is the type of core something might be. Is punk a style of music, a style of thought, or a style of expression. When I say expression I kind of mean fashion, but the word fashion has too many negative aspects to it, but I hope you understand my point.
The point of this blog however is to look at the way the rock, has been dropped from punk rock. A good friend of mine at CD Plus Madison when it was still open told me that Alkaline Trio was actual punk, and that bands like Strung Out where closer to metal. Now I thought him mad at first too, but look at bands like Cock Sparrer, the Clash, the Sex Pistols, and yes even the Ramones. They played fast, but there is a distinct rock influence on the tunes. I may be wrong, but I think punk in whatever terms you speak is about being unique, and yourself, not being as fast and as offensive as possible. Not that I don’t enjoy the abrasive, sounds of the Meatmen occasionally.
I think when you look of examples of people that are considered the "punkest" you got to look at guys like Joey Ramone who was not flashy at all. Tight black pants, white shirt, and a leather to complement a truly mop top hair-do.
The fashion can be part of it to, but that was more of a European thing, which is cool. I love the Exploited mohawks, and bowlers and make-up of the addicts, but I think the British just do it better. The punks from Britain remind me of Degrassi High 80's, and the Gourmet Scum.
And as for the question about punk, it is all three, at least in my opinion, and I know that in many views it is wrong so don’t get pissed off at me. I think that punk rock is the attitude that you do what you want as long as it doesn’t prevent others from doing what they want. In terms of expression, and I think this is the part that separates the punks from the poseurs is being able to be yourself completely. That doesn’t mean that you compromise. For example I want to someday work in radio, but I often am not a fan of what is played on the airwaves, so I am combining two of my favourite things sports and radio.
For the record I did not put this up to tell anybody what to think. I just think it is a fascinating topic when you consider the different types of people that are considered to be in the punk rock genre, and I am interested to hear what other people think it is to be "punk". I can tell you on thing it takes balls, and I hope I have the Cajones to punk.
I agree... it's super contested and bands can easily lose their "punk" image or appeal and even their punk audience. I think AFI used to be punk, and now they aren't. but it's not like i can pinpoint an exact moment that the switch happened. How much electronic addition and looking like a girl is too much? (don't get me wrong i still LOVE them now).
ReplyDeleteBut because genres are all being combined and crossed as people push the limits and invent, I think it's more the attitude that goes into the songs. Some guitars, a good tempo, and at least one track about being unhappy with your current situation- anyone has the potential to get punk.
Oh and I love Alkaline Trio... i'd call them punk. Especially all that poison and death stuff... good post.