The Merriam Webster Dictionary defines punk rock as "rock music marked by extreme and often deliberately offensive expressions of alienation and social discontent". It can also be seen as a wellspring of politcal and social expressions of international youth culture, as well as one of the prime movers of the DIY (Do It Yourself) movement. Punk rock, for many, is defined not so much by its message (alientation/discontent, etc), as by its "anyone can do it" egalitarian spirit. Not sure where to start with such a seemingly ambiguous and aggressive genre? Here are a few entry points in MHL's collection:
MUSIC
The Velvet Underground and Nico by The Velvet Underground Widely considered to be one of the first precursors of punk, this Lou Reed led band's debut is considered by many to be one of the greatest rock albums ever recorded. The album's iconic cover is of note to fans of both Andy Warhol and bananas.
Lust for Life by Iggy Pop Another proto-punk classic, this collaboration with David Bowie is one of Iggy Pop's most beloved albums.
Greatest Hits: Hey Ho Let's Go by The Ramones The Ramones created straight-forward, four chord rock and roll better than anyone else before or since.
The Clash by The Clash Political, passionate, and angry, The Clash mixed punk with reggae, rockabilly, and straight up rock and roll in their debut album.
Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables by Dead Kennedys Aggressie, funny, and though-provoking political punk from San Francisco, sung by a guy named Jello.
Damaged by Black Flag The record that introduced Henry Rollins to the world, Damaged is a straight blast of alienation and turmoil, with a side dish of 10 second guitar solo mayhem.
Operation Ivy by Operation Ivy Blending ska and punk before anyone thought to blend ska and punk, this Bay Area group created catchy songs that were rough around the edges.
Greatest Hits by Social Distortion Starting out as a straight up punk outfit, Social Distortion morphed over the years into a roots rock n' roll inflected punk rock powerhouse.
A Document of Dissent by Anti-Flag Political punk for the 90's, Anti-Flag brought back the looks and sounds of classic protest punk for a new generation.
The Meanest of Times by Dropkick Murphys Boston's beloved punk rock ambassadors create a timeless blend of traditional Irish tunes with punk rock rhythms. Bagpipes!
All We Love We Leave Behind by Converge This Massachusetts group has been perfecting their blend of punk rock, heavy metal, and artistic noise for 25 years.
BOOKS
The Rough Guide to Punk by Al Spicer It's like a travel guide, but for punk rock! Featuring entries for more than 250 artists, this reference guide is a good place to find new bands to check out.
Punk 365 by Holly George-Warren A collection of photos, quotes, and factoids, starting in the pre-punk era and following the genre all the way through to the 90's.
My Rules by Glen E. Friedman The definitive collection of photos by Friedman, a pioneering photographer in the early days of 80's hardcore punk.
Rip It Up and Start Again: Postpunk 1978-1984 by Simon Reynolds What came after the initial wave of punk rock in the 70's? Post-punk, a somewhat ambiguous term that groups together such disparate acts as Joy Division, Devo, and Gang of Four. What connects them all? Check out Reynold's definitive history to find out.
NYHC: New York Hardcore 1980-1990 by Tony Rettman New York hardcore was punk rocks younger, angrier, more aggressive cousin. Trace the roots of this subgenre back to the punk days of the early 80's, up to the sludge metal era of the 90's.
FILMS
The House of the Rising Punk This documentary delves into the early days of punk rock through interviews with those who were there, such as Patti Smith, Tom Verlaine, and Jim Jarmusch.
The Decline of Western Civilization Collection A classic documentary, finally available on DVD. Volume one covers the rising hardcore punk scene in L.A., with interviews and performances from Black Flag, The Germs, Fear, and X. Stick around for volume two and see some crazy 80's hair metal antics!
Salad Days: A Decade of Punk in Washington, DC (1980-1990) Washington, DC's hardcore scene gave birth to a new form of socially conscious punk rock, as well as the controversial straight edge movement. This documentary covers the birth of that scene through interviews and footage of Minor Threat, Fugazi, The Bad Brains, Rites of Spring, and more.
Rock n' Roll High School Roger Corman's camp classic is basically The Ramones being goofy, lip-synching, and blowing up a high school. And giant rat costumes.
