Suicide Commandos

The Suicide Commandos were a pioneering punk rock band formed in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in 1975. Here are some key facts about the group:

1. Formation and Early Years: The Suicide Commandos were formed by Chris Osgood (guitar, vocals), Dave Ahl (bass), and Steve Almaas (drums) in the mid-1970s. They quickly became a fixture of the Minneapolis punk rock scene, playing at local venues like Jay's Longhorn Bar. Influenced by bands like The Stooges and The Ramones, the Suicide Commandos developed a raw and energetic sound characterized by fast tempos, catchy melodies, and straightforward songwriting.

2. "Make a Record": In 1977, the Suicide Commandos released their debut album, "Make a Record", on the Blank Records label. The album is widely regarded as one of the first punk rock albums to come out of the Midwest and is considered a classic of the genre. "Make a Record" features 12 tracks of high-energy punk rock, including fan favorites like "Burn It Down" and "Attacking the Beat". The album's lo-fi production and infectious energy captured the spirit of the burgeoning punk rock movement and helped establish the Suicide Commandos as one of the leading bands in the Minneapolis scene.

3. Influence and Legacy: Despite their relatively short-lived career, the Suicide Commandos left a lasting impact on the punk rock scene, both locally and nationally. Their DIY ethos and energetic live performances inspired countless musicians and bands, and "Make a Record" remains a beloved and influential album in punk rock history. The Suicide Commandos are often cited as pioneers of the Minneapolis punk rock scene and are considered one of the founding bands of the genre.

4. Post-Band Careers: After the Suicide Commandos disbanded in 1979, members pursued various musical projects and careers. Chris Osgood became a respected figure in the Minneapolis music scene, playing with bands like The Hoopsnakes and the Litter, as well as working as a producer and engineer. Dave Ahl and Steve Almaas also continued to make music, releasing solo albums and collaborating with other musicians. Despite their individual pursuits, the members of the Suicide Commandos remained active in the music community and continued to be celebrated for their contributions to punk rock.

5. Reunion and Continued Influence: In 1999, the Suicide Commandos reunited for a series of live performances and released a compilation album titled "The Commandos Commit Suicide Dance Concert". The reunion helped introduce the band to a new generation of punk rock fans and reaffirmed their status as legends of the genre. Today, the Suicide Commandos' music continues to be celebrated by fans of punk rock and is recognized for its raw energy, catchy hooks, and lasting influence on the Minneapolis music scene.