The Dead Kennedys formed in 1978 when vocalist Jello Biafra (n� Eric Boucher) and bassist Klaus Fluride responded to a magazine ad placed by guitarist East Bay Ray. The three joined with drummer Ted and formed one of the most successful San Francisco hardcore-punk bands of the 80s. The band released it's first single, California Uber Alles in 1979 and released their first album, Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables in 1980 on Jello's own Alternative Tentacles record label. The band played hard and fast hardcore-punk that true to music around them but added their own twists such as Ray's sur ...read more
The Dead Kennedys formed in 1978 when vocalist Jello Biafra (n� Eric Boucher) and bassist Klaus Fluride responded to a magazine ad placed by guitarist East Bay Ray. The three joined with drummer Ted and formed one of the most successful San Francisco hardcore-punk bands of the 80s. The band released it's first single, California Uber Alles in 1979 and released their first album, Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables in 1980 on Jello's own Alternative Tentacles record label. The band played hard and fast hardcore-punk that true to music around them but added their own twists such as Ray's surf guitar influences and Jello's unique vocals and political ideas. The band also gained a large amount of controversy due to their Frankenchrist album which contained an 'obscene' poster by H.R. Giger. The trial ravagaed the band, and a year later in 1989 they broke up. After major royality battles between the ex band members and Jello, all hopes of a complete reuinion were dashed. But Ray, Klaus and their second drummer DH still tour and play together with new vocalist Jeff Penalty who replaced their first Jello replacement, Brandon Cruz of Dr. Know. « hide
