Saw these guys play many times in the 1978-80. Second generation high-energy rock and roll. Lead singer Hiawatha ("the only gay black member of the White Panthers") was a moody and charismatic frontman and drummer (Larry?) was rock-solid in the best Detroit tradition. Sort of your classic punk band of the period, progressed from borderline-competence to something much better. Perenial opening act for Sonic's Rendezvous Band and Destroy All Monsters. First single was the crudely recorded but v. effective "Prince and the Showgirl" b/w "Berlin Wall." Second single I don't remember except one song had "Amerikan" in the title. They also had a song ("Lexington," about Hi's stay in the federal pen) on a local compilation in the early 80s. I believe the group reunited w/different members in recent years so take those tapes w/ a grain of salt.
― m coleman (lovebug starski), Sunday, 5 June 2005 10:38 (twenty years ago)