Late 70’s, the hardcore scene was getting big in Los Angeles. But dont forget about the darker legacy of California’s punk rock scene, that damned offspring is called Deathrock. Bands with spooky atmosphere started to rise from its coffins : Christian Death, Kommunity FK, The Naked and The Dead, 45 Grave and Burning Image just to name a few. Speaking about the last name, Burning Image might be not as big as Christian Death or 45 Grave. But when it comes to deathrock, well they are my honey. During their early years (1982-1987), they only released a 7″ single (with the songs “The Final Conflict” and “Burning Image, Burning”) which caught Jello Biafra’s attention. They were then invited to play on one of Dead Kennedy’s show, they also shared the same stage with 45 Grave, Specimen and Butthole Surfers. And after recorded a few more songs, the band disappeared in the summer of ’87. They reformed in 2004 after Moe Adame (guitar/vocals) met Jello Biafra, a collection of their old materials titled “1983-1987” (2004) and an album titled “Fantasma” (2009) then released via Jello Biafra’s label Alternative Tentacles. I’d say Burning Image is less ‘melancholic’ than (early) Christian Death, but still has its own power. Haunting yet raging vocals, powerful drum beats, noisy and ‘atmospheric’ guitar riffings: “Fantasma” is a must listen for all deathrock / gothic fans out there! Yes they refused to die, “Oleander” (2011) is available as digital download which can be purchased here I believe. Enjoy the spookiness, after the jump!
New Comments