The Cramps

While surf-punk bands like Agent Orange had punks hitting the beach in the '80s, psychobilly outfit The Cramps brought a darker, sexier side to surf music, as singer Lux Interior flexed his vocal muscles, all Elvis-on-acid-like, over guitarist Poison Ivy's oozing, springy rhythms. This 31-minute album is arguably the best...

By Niki D'Andrea

August 21, 2008

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While surf-punk bands like Agent Orange had punks hitting the beach in the '80s, psychobilly outfit The Cramps brought a darker, sexier side to surf music, as singer Lux Interior flexed his vocal muscles, all Elvis-on-acid-like, over guitarist Poison Ivy's oozing, springy rhythms. This 31-minute album is arguably the best of The Cramps' 32-year career. Right from the snarky leadoff track, "Garbageman," Bad Music for Bad People establishes itself as the cream of the psychobilly crop. Songs like the hedonistic anthem "New Kind of Kick" and the cheeky, garbled "She Said" show the Cramps at their most distinct — ghoulish grooves with a hint of humor. Even covers, like Charlie Feathers' "I Can't Hardly Stand It," carry The Cramps' sonic psycho-surf stamp. Cult classics like "Goo Goo Muck" and the noir-ish "Human Fly" round out this highly influential album.

Niki D'Andrea has covered subjects including drug culture, women's basketball, pirate radio stations, Scottsdale staycations, and fine wine. She has worked at both New Times and Phoenix Magazine, and is now a freelancer.

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