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You can say that again. Although the name seems to be the usual
attempt of a local band aspring to make their mark in punk rock history,
that is as far as the comparison goes. The music is another story.
The Dead Milkmen are a group of four likeable guys ( Rodney Anonymous
--vocals, Jack Talcum --guitar, backup, Dave Blood-- bass, Dean Clean--
drums ) who play truly likeable music. There are none of the culture/ counter culture
political soapbox diatribes that some bands aspire to, sending them over the edge
into an abyss of repetitious boredom ( Plato's Law of Despair : the quality of music
is inversely affected by the quantity of medocre philosophy crammed into one song).
Instead this music is fun with a capital "F". There is a sense of humor in what the band
does. The music is spirited and forceful. The titles of their two releases:
Death Rides A Pale Cow and The Dead Milkmen Take The Airwaves
are a subtle warning to let the listener beware--
this is not music for a serious midnight discussion.
THis is music for a good time.
How can you resist a band that sings " I Hate Myself " with vigor and vim equalled only
by the enthusiasm of a group of winos discovering a half price sale on Night Train.?
Then there's the all-time favorite " Bitchin' Camero " and for something completely
different..." Rastabilly "
For those who are concerned about lack of substance, rest easy. Topics such as
culture ( "Ich Bin Ein Junkie, Was?" ), politics (" Beach Party Viet Nam"), and education
(" Violent School " ) provide the daily minimum requirment of societal criticism
essential for a band to grow and an audience to relate to.
The Dead Milkmen inspire high spirits with their music and their off-beat approach
to their material. It is refreshing not to feel guilty because you're having a great time
at a show while a band sings about starvation and desolation.
"We are not a local band
We are from outer space
We don't even give a damn
We will probably smash your face
WE ARE THE DEAD MILKMEN
WE ARE THE DEAD MILKMEN
WE ARE THE DEAD MILKMEN**
They certainly are.... and don't you forget it !
Tapes are avaliable by writing to
The Dead Milkmen /POB 58152 / Phila.,
PA 19102-8152
**Lyrics from the "Milkmen Stomp"
c Golfpro Music
Joe sent me this article in Jan. 1996. I am not sure if the above note is from that time or from 1983.
Which ever it was, the Article is a really good one, and its sad to see someone that cool go.
