Bongwater

"Bongwater" was an American alternative rock band formed in the late 1980s, known for their eclectic and irreverent style. Here are some facts about the group:

1. Formation and Members: Bongwater was formed in New York City in 1985 by Ann Magnuson and Mark Kramer. Ann Magnuson was an actress, performance artist, and musician, while Mark Kramer was a musician, producer, and founder of the independent record label Shimmy-Disc. The band's lineup also included various collaborators and guest musicians over the years, contributing to their diverse sound.

2. Musical Style: Bongwater's music defied easy categorization, blending elements of alternative rock, psychedelic rock, folk, spoken word, and experimental music. Their songs often featured unconventional song structures, surreal lyrics, and a playful, tongue-in-cheek approach to songwriting. Bongwater's sound was characterized by Mark Kramer's innovative production techniques and Ann Magnuson's charismatic vocals and theatrical delivery.

3. Album Releases: Bongwater released several albums and EPs during their career, starting with their debut album, "Double Bummer", in 1988. The album showcased the band's eclectic style and featured guest appearances from musicians such as Fred Frith and John Zorn. Bongwater's subsequent albums, including "Too Much Sleep" (1989) and "The Power of Pussy" (1990), further solidified their reputation for boundary-pushing music and provocative lyrical content.

4. Cultural Impact: While Bongwater never achieved mainstream commercial success, they garnered a devoted cult following and left a lasting impact on the alternative music scene of the late 1980s and early 1990s. Their adventurous approach to songwriting and production, combined with Ann Magnuson's outspoken feminism and satirical social commentary, resonated with fans drawn to their offbeat sensibilities and outsider perspective.

5. Legacy: Despite disbanding in the early 1990s, Bongwater's influence continues to be felt in the indie and alternative music communities. Their music has been cited as an inspiration by subsequent generations of artists exploring unconventional and experimental approaches to rock music. Ann Magnuson and Mark Kramer have both continued to pursue creative endeavors in various fields, contributing to their enduring legacy as innovative and boundary-pushing artists.

In summary, Bongwater was an American alternative rock band known for their eclectic style, surreal lyrics, and irreverent approach to music. While they may not have achieved widespread commercial success, their adventurous spirit and creative output have earned them a place in the pantheon of influential an