Massacre

Massacre is an experimental rock band known for their avant-garde approach to music and their contributions to the New York City underground music scene. Here are some key facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Years: Massacre was formed in New York City in 1980 by guitarist Fred Frith, bassist Bill Laswell, and drummer Fred Maher. The band emerged from the post-punk and experimental music scenes of downtown Manhattan, drawing inspiration from genres such as free jazz, punk rock, and noise music. Their early recordings and live performances showcased their unique blend of improvisation, dissonance, and unconventional song structures.

2. Influential Albums: Massacre released their debut album, "Killing Time", in 1981. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to rock music, combining elements of avant-garde jazz with punk and post-punk sensibilities. Tracks like "Legs" and "Corridor" exemplified the band's ability to create complex and challenging compositions that pushed the boundaries of traditional rock music. Massacre's follow-up albums, including "Funny Valentine" (1998) and "Lonely Heart" (2007), further solidified their reputation as pioneers of experimental rock.

3. Collaborations and Side Projects: Over the years, members of Massacre have collaborated with a diverse range of artists across various musical genres. Bill Laswell, in particular, has been involved in numerous side projects and collaborations with musicians such as John Zorn, Material, and Buckethead. These collaborations have allowed Massacre members to explore new sonic territories and expand their creative horizons beyond the confines of the band.

4. Revival and Continued Activity: After a period of inactivity in the 1980s and 1990s, Massacre experienced a revival in the early 2000s, with the release of new albums and live performances. The band's lineup evolved over the years, with various musicians joining Frith and Laswell for different projects and recordings. Despite lineup changes, Massacre has maintained their experimental spirit and commitment to pushing the boundaries of rock music.

5. Cult Status and Legacy: Massacre has attained a cult following among fans of experimental and avant-garde music. Their pioneering contributions to the New York City underground music scene have left a lasting legacy, influencing subsequent generations of musicians and bands. With their groundbreaking approach to composition and improvisation, Massacre remains a revered and respected name in the realm of experimental rock.

In summary, Massacre is an experimental rock band known for their avant-garde approach to music and their contributions to the New York City underground music scene. With their innovative compositions, improvisational prowess, and willingness to push the boundaries of traditional rock music, Massacre has earned a place as one of the most influential bands in the realm of experimental rock.