Founded 34 years ago in Los Angeles during the first wave of LA punk rock by brothers Jeff and Steven McDonald (then respectively 15 and 11 years old), REDD KROSS cut their teeth opening for Black Flag at a middle school graduation party. Their debut recordings caught the attention of Rodney Bingenheimer, who quickly became a fan as he spun their Ramones-inspired songs like “Annette's Got The Hits” and "I Hate My School" on the world-famous KROQ.
REDD KROSS are back and delivering their signature brand of genuine rock 'n' roll with a vengeance. On August 10, Shock Records will release Researching the Blues, the first new album from REDD KROSS in 15 years.
Researching the Blues features 10 new songs clocking in at just under 32 minutes. With songs written by Jeff and produced and mixed by Steven, the album is by far the band’s favorite record. Steve says, “It has the most singular artistic vision of any record we’ve done. It’s just 10 really fucking awesome songs that have the ability to move you in many different ways.”
They’re too nice to say so themselves, but attention must be paid to this band, to this great album, Researching the Blues, which, like a pair of great pants, is tight and the perfect length. By the time you’re two minutes and 51 seconds into the second song, “Stay Away From Downtown,” and the band is breaking into the sha-la-las, you will be running around the room with your hands in the air. You tried the rest—but now you’ve had the best.
In 2006, Jeff and Steven announced their reunion with the “classic Neurotica” (1987) line-up, joined once again by guitarist Robert Hecker (IT’S OK) and drummer Roy McDonald (The Muffs). REDD KROSS have been playing to enthusiastic audiences at sold-out select shows and festivals such as the Azkena Festival; Coachella; All Tomorrow's Parties; and Pop Montréal. With more REDD KROSS tour dates to come this year!
The McDonalds were educated at Rock ’n’ Roll High, and they’ve stayed true to their school. Here’s to their beautiful reunion! Redd Kross Forever!
Tune into Sunglasses After Dark with Phil MacDougall, 8-10pm for a live set from Redd Kross.
