Dust

Dust was a rock band formed in New York City in 1969, known for their heavy sound and innovative approach to hard rock and proto-metal. Here are some facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Years: Dust was formed by guitarist and vocalist Richie Wise, drummer Marc Bell (later known as Marky Ramone), and bassist Kenny Aaronson. The band came together in 1969, drawing inspiration from the burgeoning hard rock and heavy metal scenes of the time. Dust quickly gained a following in the New York City music scene with their powerful live performances and dynamic blend of blues, psychedelia, and proto-metal influences.

2. Debut Album: In 1971, Dust released their self-titled debut album on the Kama Sutra label. The album featured a mix of original compositions and covers, showcasing the band's versatility and musical prowess. Tracks like "From a Dry Camel" and "Suicide" highlighted Dust's heavy riffing, complex rhythms, and Wise's soulful vocals. Despite receiving critical acclaim from music critics, the album failed to achieve commercial success at the time of its release.

3. Innovative Sound: Dust was known for their innovative approach to hard rock and heavy metal, blending elements of blues, psychedelia, and progressive rock into their music. The band's heavy, riff-driven sound and dynamic songwriting set them apart from their contemporaries and helped to pave the way for the development of the heavy metal genre. Dust's pioneering use of distortion, feedback, and other effects pushed the boundaries of rock music and influenced generations of musicians to come.

4. Disbandment and Legacy: Despite their initial promise, Dust disbanded in 1972 after releasing only two albums. However, their music continued to gain recognition and appreciation among fans of hard rock and heavy metal over the years. Dust's albums were reissued on CD in the 1990s, introducing their music to a new generation of listeners and solidifying their status as cult favorites in the rock underground. The band's influence can be heard in the work of later heavy metal bands, and their legacy continues to be celebrated by fans of hard rock and proto-metal music.

5. Members' Post-Dust Careers: Following the disbandment of Dust, the members pursued various musical projects. Richie Wise went on to become a successful record producer, working with artists such as Kiss and Gladys Knight. Marc Bell joined the punk rock band Richard Hell and the Voidoids before ultimately becoming the drummer for the Ramones, where he gained fame as Marky Ramone. Kenny Aaronson went on to have a prolific career as a session musician, playing with artists such as Bob Dylan, Billy Idol, and Joan Jett. Despite their individual successes, Dust remains a cherished chapter in the history of hard rock and heavy metal music.