Without a doubt The Germs are one of the most important and influential bands in punk and hardcore history. Initially, most members could barely play, which is a far cry from where they would end up on their sole 1979 LP (produced by Joan Jett). On (GI), they had mastercrafted some of punk rock's best songs, while maintaining the sloppy, raw energy had become renowned for. For such a volatile sound, they came through with some surprisingly literary lyrics, courtesy of the now-legendary Darby Crash. Having said that, his vocals did still sound like they were recorded mid-exorcism. The performances on their LP were relatively refined in comparison to their live performances, which were infamously chaotic. Unfortunately in 1980, Crash committed suicide via intentional overdose, which brought an end to the band.
Following The Germs, guitarist Pat Smear joined Nirvana in their final year as a touring guitarist, and later became a long-standing member of the Foo Fighters. Drummer Don Bolles has also remained active in bands such as Celebrity Skin and 45 Grave. In 2007, a biographical film titled What We Do Is Secret about Darby Crash's life, with Shane West in the leading role. This lead to the three remaining Germs members to reunite, with West now as their vocalist. After a few tours with the reformed Germs, West left in 2009. Bassist Lorna Doom passed away in 2019.
(MIA) consists of all their recorded material, including their full-length. I also posted (GI) separately if you just want that, as it is a classic and essential listening. Enjoy.
They embodied everything punk should be
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