On this week’s Stronger Than Dirt (Saturday, March 1, 8-10pm) I will be showcasing some favorite of my favorite tunes including songs by Pink Floyd, Nerves, Generation X, Edith Nylon, Model Citizens, Muffs, Ladytron, Ponys, Melenas, some new music as well as the weekly Dusty Diamond. This is the second Saturday of KOOP’s spring membership drive. It’s through the generous financial support of our listeners that allows us to continue bringing you shows like Stronger Than Dirt.
COVER ART OF THE WEEK: Generation X were a prominent punk band from London and were fronted by Billy Idol (William Broad). Formed in 1976 they attained international popularity and were the very first punk band to appear on the British Top of the Pops show. They disbanded in 1981 after releasing two albums and recording a third album that remained unreleased until 1998. The self-titled first album, released in 1978 on Chrysalis records, featured a photograph of the band on the front cover by noted British music photographer Gered Mankowitz.
DUSTY DIAMOND OF THE WEEK (a vintage gem from the STD vaults): Lolita No. 18 are an all-female punk band from Japan that formed in 1989. Known for fun, high energy live sets (including some classic SXSW appearances) they have released numerous albums and singles, the most recent in 2018. They continue to perform live. Their cover of Eddie Cochran’s “Summertime Blues” is a pedal to the metal scorcher that captures the energy and power of the live performances. It appeared in 1995 on their first album, “Karate Teacher,” on Benten Records. I bought my copy from them at their 1996 (?) SXSW show at the Hole in the Wall. Listen to it here:
Promo art from The Minutemen’s 1983 “Buzz or Howl Under the Influence of Heat” EP on SST Records. Original artwork by Joe Baiza.