Crimpshrine

Crimpshrine was a punk rock band from Berkeley, California, active during the late 1980s and early 1990s. Despite their relatively short-lived existence, they left a significant impact on the East Bay punk scene and the broader punk rock community. Here are some facts about Crimpshrine:

1. Formation and Early Years: Crimpshrine was formed in 1982 in Berkeley, California, by childhood friends Jeff Ott (vocals, guitar) and Aaron Cometbus (drums). The band initially started as a duo, but they later expanded to include additional members, such as bassist Pete Rypins and guitarist Idon Bryant. Crimpshrine emerged during a vibrant period in the East Bay punk scene, alongside bands like Operation Ivy, Rancid, and Green Day.

2. Influence on the East Bay Punk Scene: Crimpshrine played a significant role in shaping the sound and ethos of the East Bay punk scene. Their music combined elements of melodic punk rock with introspective and socially conscious lyrics, creating a sound that resonated with fans of DIY punk and underground music. Crimpshrine's DIY approach to music-making, coupled with their passionate performances and politically charged lyrics, inspired a generation of punk rockers in the Bay Area and beyond.

3. Album Releases: Crimpshrine released several influential records during their brief career. Their debut album, "Duct Tape Soup", was released in 1988 on the independent label Lookout! Records. The album showcased Crimpshrine's melodic punk sound and featured memorable tracks like "Another Day", "Butterflies", and "Summertime". Crimpshrine followed up with the EP "Sleep, What's That?" in 1989 and the compilation album "Lame Gig Contest" in 1992, which collected various singles, demos, and unreleased tracks.

4. Impact and Legacy: Despite disbanding in 1989, Crimpshrine's influence on the punk rock scene continued to reverberate long after their breakup. Their melodic yet raw sound, heartfelt lyrics, and DIY ethos inspired countless bands in the punk and indie rock underground. Crimpshrine's legacy can be heard in the music of subsequent generations of punk bands, as well as in the broader DIY punk ethos that emphasizes independence, self-expression, and community.

5. Members' Post-Crimpshrine Projects: Following Crimpshrine's breakup, members went on to pursue various musical projects and endeavors. Jeff Ott formed the band Fifteen, which became highly influential in the punk community with its blend of punk rock and folk influences. Aaron Cometbus continued to be active in the punk scene as a drummer, writer, and zine publisher. Despite their individual pursuits, the members of Crimpshrine remained connected to their punk rock roots and continued to be celebrated for their contributions to the East Bay punk scene and the wider punk rock community.