Mission of Burma

Mission of Burma is an American post-punk band formed in Boston, Massachusetts, in 1979. Here are some facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Career: Mission of Burma was formed by guitarist Roger Miller, bassist Clint Conley, drummer Peter Prescott, and tape manipulator Martin Swope. The band emerged from the vibrant underground music scene in Boston in the late 1970s, which also produced influential bands like The Cars and Pixies. Mission of Burma's music was characterized by its innovative blend of punk rock energy, avant-garde experimentation, and socially conscious lyrics.

2. Seminal Albums: Mission of Burma released their debut EP, "Signals, Calls, and Marches", in 1981, followed by their critically acclaimed debut album, "Vs.", in 1982. These releases garnered praise for their inventive songwriting, frenetic energy, and sonic experimentation. Songs like "That's When I Reach for My Revolver" and "Academy Fight Song" became underground anthems and solidified the band's reputation as one of the most innovative acts of the post-punk era.

3. Reunion and Continued Activity: After disbanding in 1983 due to Miller's struggle with tinnitus, Mission of Burma reunited in 2002 for a series of live performances and recording sessions. Despite Miller's ongoing hearing issues, the band released several albums of new material, including "ONoffON" (2004), "The Obliterati" (2006), and "Unsound" (2012). These albums demonstrated that Mission of Burma had lost none of their intensity or creativity, earning them renewed acclaim from fans and critics alike.

4. Legacy and Influence: Mission of Burma's influence extends far beyond their relatively brief initial run. Their groundbreaking approach to songwriting, production techniques, and live performance has inspired countless artists across genres and generations. Bands like R.E.M., Sonic Youth, and Nirvana have cited Mission of Burma as a key influence on their own music, and their pioneering contributions to the post-punk and indie rock movements continue to be celebrated by fans of alternative music worldwide.

5. Commitment to Artistic Integrity: Throughout their career, Mission of Burma has maintained a steadfast commitment to artistic integrity and creative independence. The band's members have pursued diverse musical projects outside of Mission of Burma, including solo albums, collaborations, and experimental endeavors. Despite the challenges they faced, both personally and professionally, Mission of Burma has remained true to their vision and ethos, leaving behind a rich and enduring musical legacy that continues to resonate with listeners.