Misfits HHV Records 37 Items

Scary show with a B-movie aesthetic

The Misfits, the legendary American punk rock band, was founded in 1977 in Lodi, New Jersey. The group originally consisted of singer Glenn Danzig, bassist Jerry Only, guitarist Franché Coma and drummer Mr. Jim. The band’s early formation and musical style were heavily influenced by horror films, science fiction and punk rock, which made them stand out in the late 1970s music scene. In their early years, the Misfits released a number of singles and EPs, including the now legendary Horror Business and Night of the Living Dead. Their music revolved around themes of horror, science fiction and B-movie aesthetics, which were reflected in their lyrics and visual imagery. However, internal conflicts led to line-up changes that resulted in new members, including guitarist Doyle Wolfgang von Frankenstein, who played a key role in shaping the band’s sound and aesthetic.

The Crimson Ghost awakens

Their debut album Walk Among Us, released in 1982, showcased their distinctive blend of punk energy and horror themes. It included tracks such as Skulls and Astro Zombies and gained the Misfits a cult following. The band’s influence extended beyond music and contributed significantly to the development of the horror-punk subgenre. The Misfits’ iconic skull logo, known as the Crimson Ghost, became a symbol of their brand and a staple in punk culture. Their appearance, characterized by black clothing and Danzig’s distinctive voice, as well as their horror-inspired lyrics, gave their performances and identity a unique dimension. However, internal disputes and creative differences led to the band’s break-up in 1983. Glenn Danzig went on to form the band Samhain and later his eponymous group Danzig, while Jerry Only revived the Misfits in the mid-1980s, taking over lead vocals. The band underwent several line-up changes and moved away from their original sound, but continued to release albums and go on tour.

Disputes and reunion

Despite the band’s initial break-up, the Misfits’ influence on punk, rock and metal remained strong. Their music and imagery continued to inspire numerous bands in the punk and hardcore scene and cemented their place in music history. Their songs have been covered by a wide variety of artists from different genres, underlining the band’s lasting influence. The reunion of the Misfits in the 21st century with original members Jerry Only and Glenn Danzig delighted their loyal fan base. The band played several reunion shows and released new material, including the vinyl The Devil’s Rain in 2011. The Misfits’ influence on music and culture is undeniable. Their fusion of punk rock with horror themes created a unique subgenre that inspired countless bands and artists. Even after their initial breakup, their music and iconic imagery have left a lasting history in the scene.