WHAT DO YOU ALL MAKE OF THIS?
I've noticed as of late a lot of interest in the seminal punk band Suicidal Tendencies, especially in graphic influence and homage. Seems they're garnishing a new and younger generational wave of appreciation. I've heard, "Yeah man, Suicidal Tendencies were so cool! And they had a tight knit group of followers".
While I do acknowledge their importance and creativity on the punk rock timeline, it kind of makes me smirk when I think back to those days when they hit the scene here in L.A.
I remember once being at a punk rock gig, accidentally catching the eye of some dude wearing a flannel and a bent up brim cap with a Suicidal logo on it, then having him and a dozen of his "Suicidal" posse up in my face about to kick my ass cause I "looked" at him. And it was never ONE guy coming up to you. It was a bunch of guys. They'd have you desperately trying to finagle your way out of getting an undeserved sock in the face, while avoiding a direct look in one of their eyes again. This was not an isolated incident. I've found myself in other similar situations, and I'm sure many other people have as well.
Some say that the Punk Rock scene in L.A. was over by 79-80 with the heavier hardcore bands from Los Angeles and Orange County (and in less prevalence other suburbs) making their presence. For me and my friends at our age it began with these bands. But by 82 it was done for me. Partly because of an open eyed interest in other forms of music. But a good part also because of assholes like guys that followed Suicidal who really put a harsh aspect to the punk scene, and the unnecessary trouble they created.
Time passed, and as I got older, I reflected on those times. I came to realize that perhaps all those guys were just venting their anger because they were dealing with the confusion of being homosexuals in the closet. I mean, it was always a bunch of dudes hanging out? Never girls? So now I have a soft spot for all those guys and the trouble they were dealing with during their adolescence.