The Barren Plains Of Dystopia With EAST BAY RAY From DEAD KENNEDYS

Punk rock has seen many bands proudly fly the flag for its roots, ideologies and defiant attitude, but few would argue that one of the best and most influential punk bands ever is the Dead Kennedys.
Since 1978, the band have flown in the face of almost anything with even a slight breeze, along the way releasing a multitude of songs that have shaped a generation, including Holiday in Cambodia, California Über Alles, and Kill the Poor. Their flippant attitude, coupled with brutally honest content, has seen the Dead Kennedys not only reach the summit of all that is music but remain there, virtually unchallenged for the better part of five decades.
After a seven-year absence, the punk rock upstarts are finally returning to Australia and New Zealand to regal fans with a dose of unbridled anarchy when they start their Give Me Dystopia Or Give Me Death tour in Auckland on September 16 and wind things up in Sydney on September 27. With three shows already sold out and the rest close enough to, HEAVY sat down for a chat with guitarist East Bay Ray to shoot the breeze. One of the things we ask is what fans can expect from the Dead Kennedys live.
"Well, the fact that we're still alive and moving is a good thing," he laughed. "Back in the day, there was a lot of political bands and stuff - and we're still political - but the reason we're still around is the music. And if I do say so myself, this is something I shouldn't be saying it, but we really rock out. We're a good rock and roll band, and we have a very unique sound."
In the full interview, East Bay Ray further noted that the Dead Kennedys music remains true to their identity, with the tour titled Give Me Dystopia or Give Me Death reflecting both their past and the current political climate in the U.S. The discussion also covered the band's origins in San Francisco's punk scene, their musical influences, and their commitment to blending political commentary with humour.
He recounted a notable incident in 1982 when they were arrested in Brisbane, illustrating the repressive political environment of the time. When asked about new music, Ray confirmed they have written new material over the years, though audience reactions have been mixed, as fans prefer classic songs. He remarked on the current vitality of the hardcore punk scene and humorously addressed the topic of the band's eventual retirement and more.


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