KLYAM (Chris at least!) recommendations for Halloween!
Parents (1988) – Directed by Bob Balaban and starring Randy Quaid. Randy Quaid isn’t just the loveable miscreant cousin Eddie. Here he plays an even creepier guy! 1950s suburban parody – his little boy suspects his parents are cannibals. How come they have leftovers every night? Parents is my Horror movie recommendation for your Halloween festivites.
The Mummies – (You Must Fight To Live) On The Planet Of The Apes
The Del-Aires – The Zombie Stomp
Bert Convoy – The Monsters Hop
Baron Daemon and the Vampires – Transylvania Twist
Ronald Stein – Attack of the 50 Foot Woman
The Blenders – Graveyard
Buddy Baker – Grim Grinning Ghosts
electric eels – Dead Man’s Curve
Mohawks – Bewitched
Jack Hylton and His Orchestra – Masquerade
Ray Noble and his Orchestra – Midnight, The Stars, and You
Ray Noble and his Orchestra – It’s All Forgotten Now
Henry Hall and his Gleneagles Hotel Band – Home
The Lolipop Shoppe – You Must Be a Witch
The Cramps – I Was a Teenage Werewolf
The Keytones – I Was a Teenage Monster
Patsy Montana – Yodeling Ghost
Monocles – Spider and the Fly
Louis Armstrong – Skeleton in the Closet
Sheldon Allman – Radioactive Mama
Louis Armstrong – Spooks
Nat King Cole – Autumn Leaves
Bobby Please – The Monster
Of course, it’s not Halloween until The Shaggs say so.
The algorithms must have known I was searching Halloween music, because I came across this song I hadn’t heard in probably 10 years from Mark Sultan. A pleasant throwback!
Well, watch some Treehouse of Horrors or something fun or scary, eat candy, dance in the moonlight, and enjoy that extra hour of sleep. Happy Halloween!
Intensive Care Unit – Waste Fraud + Abuse EP (2026)
Joey Ramone – Don’t Worry About Me (2002)
Loose Lips – Love You 45 (2026)
Dicklickers – S/T (2026)
Noah Britton – Love! (2026, recorded 2021-2026)
Frank Sinatra – In the Wee Small Hours (1955)
Leona Anderson – Music to Suffer By (1956)
Drunks With Guns – S/T EP (1985)
D. Sablu – Righteous Light (2026)
The Drags – Dragsploitation… Now! (1994)
The Drags – Stop Rock and Roll (1996)
The Drags – Set Right Fit To Blow Clean Up (1998)
Horsegirl – Phonetics On and On (2025)
The Lotts – Get Obsessed (2026)
Animal Piss, It’s Everywhere – Grace (2024)
Death – … For The Whole World To See (2009, recorded in 70s)
Pissmas Tape (2026)
Slippers – So You Like Slippers? (2024)
Slippers – Slippers 08 (2026)
Wesley & The Boys – Euro Tour Tape 26 (2026)
Drunks With Guns – S/T EP (1993)
The Germs – Cruising Studio Sessions EP (1980)
Dry Socket – The First Five Years (2025, recorded 2020-2025)
Cococoma/Turpentine Brothers – Keep That Volume Down/Never Done Nothing Right 7” (2006)
Turpentine Brothers – Get Your Mind Off Me/Not Your Fashion 7” (2006)
James Arthur/Alicja Trout – Go West Old Bastards/Close Ur Eyres (2012)
James Arthur – MannTT (2009)
Manhunt – Staring At The Sun/Cherry Red 7” (2017)
Another Gonerfest in the books! That makes 10 for me! Had a great time! Saw tons of sick bands, hung out with friends new and old, and ate some delicious BBQ. My favorite was the BBQ spaghetti (on French toast) at The BBQ Shop. Say hi to Eric and Rob! Anyway, this month’s listing was heavily inspired by bands who played Gonerfest.
Starting off with the apropos “Black September” from the legendary Dead Moon. Toody Cole and her band also headlined Gonerfest! It was amazing and she dished out many a Dead Moon classic and more! Our very own Gritty caught up with her briefly at the Holiday Inn breakfast!
Speaking of legends, Gonerfest 23 was filled with them! Goner does a great job of catching the fresh, young cream of the crop, but also incorporate iconic (at least to us weirdos!) Rock and Roll heads. Death – Detroit’s best kept secret; formed in fucking 71! First black Punk band and in general one of the first Punk bands – headlined Gonerfest! Drunks With Guns played a Gonerfest after party at B-Side alongside AAAA The New Memphis Legs (one of my favorites featuring GF head honcho Eric Friedl). I found it funny that when I said this was my Gonerfest after party of choice that night several folks said “That sounds like a show you’d go to.” Don Perry said it best “That’s a man who understands Geriatrics.” I had a blast! But what really stood out to me not just as a revival of an older act, but as a whole – favorite band of Gonerfest and a new a favorite for me was 90s Garage Punks The Drags. Holy shit, this is what I’ve been looking for. Has that great stripped down, simple, scuzzy approach a la Mummies, Oblivians, but totally doing it’s own thing. In addition to the hooks, the subject matter is enticing. Songs about cannibals, explosives, and love! And all at the same time! I had the pleasure of catching them up on the big stage and also at an after party at the best bar in the world, the Lamplighter Lounge (featuring Oakley Munson of Black Lips/Rondelles on drums). I had heard of The Drags before and listened to some of their stuff in the past, but for whatever reason it didn’t stick – what was I smoking? Weed probably. PSA kids, don’t let that shit make you miss out on cool music. I first read about them in a local newspaper/zine Freak Flag (shout out to Cory Bell and Ellie Gill) and I checked them out and I remember digging it, but alas, I fucked up! That’s why I started writing these to document what I’m listening to, so I don’t forget! I probably still will for some, but at least I can reference these just like our show archive. Highly recommend The Drags!
Huge thanks to Total Punk for reissuing The Drags albums! We need more of this! Doing the lord’s work, Rich!
I’m going to wrap it up here. I could keep yapping, but just listen to at least one of these bands! Like Turpentine Brothers. I found two of their 45s at the pop up Goner Records shop at Gonerfest. Gotta support the hometown homies. I get it, I don’t care for recommendations sometimes. It’s overwhelming. But yeah, a lot of good shit up there and out there. I’m already ready for October. Well, it’s already here, so I guess it doesn’t matter if I’m ready or not! Downing Downeast Cider (get the reflux rolling!) and overdosing on candy and slasher flicks. I’m sure I’ll have some great stuff next month for the 3 people that read this haha.
Oh yeah, we had a retirement party. Yep, we’re done! Not exactly. You cant get rid of us that easy. Just done with booking shows. This blog will still exist. This is evidence of that dummy! Retirement Party was phenomenal. Bands were outstanding. It was a love fest, reunion, and perfect swan song. At least until the Comeback Party! We’ll see… Peep patspolaroidz on Instagram for exquisite photos such as this one of Noah Britton at The Fifth Column.
The rumors are true! We are closing this chapter of the KLYAM book. Kids Like You & Me (KLYAM) is not over; we’ll still post on here, DJ, and who knows what else? Perhaps we’ll even come out of retirement one day! But, for now we’re calling it quits on the shows. It’s been a long, fun run, and I could give an explanation, but I won’t bore you!
A HUGE thanks to anyone who has supported us over the years. Can’t even begin to name all of you and I’ll save that for another post. Bands that have played our shows, venues that have hosted us, volunteers, supporters, our friends and family and anyone else!
This line-up is quite the doozy! We wanted to get a lot of our old faves over the years. Saturday, September 19 at Lou-Ann David Park in Somerville, MA! That’s located at 1060 Broadway, Somerville, MA.
Here’s a couple pics
The main show takes place at the park from 1-6.12:30 doors! Show is free, but $5-15 suggested donation for the bands :)
The park show will be followed by an After Party at The Fifth Column. DM KLYAM for the address! 7 Doors, 8 show!
Set-Times (follow KLYAM on Instagram in case anything changes!):
Mickey Bliss – 1
Schooner – 1:30
MR – 2
Honey Cassette – 2:30
Pledge Pins – 3
Kremlin Bats – 3:30
The Swettes – 4
Andy California – 4:30
Nice Guys – 5
***AFTER PARTY!****
Healers Co. – 8
Noah Britton – 8:45
Gossip Collar – 9:30
G. Gordon Gritty – 10:15
Nervous Guys – 10:50
Let’s meet the players….
Mickey Bliss – Mr. Club Bohemia himself! The mastermind behind Hitman Records – Mickey released a batch of synth laced exquisite 45s in the early 80s. He never stopped rocking and in fact since the 60s he’s been playing Rock and Roll. He’s also booked countless bands for decades through his former Club Bohemia booking (where we first met him at Cambridge’s Cantab Lounge). We were even lucky enough to be Mickey’s backing band as Johnnie and the Foodmasters! Catch Mickey solo as he kicks off the fest! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=27KOUN2Ox44&list=RD27KOUN2Ox44&start_radio=1
Schooner – Schooner are a big part of the Allston DIY scene and brining some much needed new blood to the party! Unlike the rest of us old heads! JK!
MR – MR is a legend! The King of New Bedford. He’s played in Picniclunch since 2009, a KLAM fave. No Wave. Noise Rock. We’re excited to have one of our oldest homies playing our party.
Pledge Pins – A PLEDGE PIN AT YOUR RETIREMENT PARTY?!!! WHAT KIND OF A SICK BOOKER WOULD HAVE THE PLEDGE PINS PLAY THEIR MUSIC FESTIVAL?! The best damn party in town! That’s right, 60s Frat Rock Garage Punks Pledge Pins are playing the KLYAM Retirement Party! Tyler and Simon are Boston Punk vets from Hospital Rats to White Pages to Sticker Shock to Adult Learners and Puke Pisstols today. https://pledgepins.bandcamp.com/album/we-dont-mind-dancin
Kremlin Bats – We’ve known Jim since 2012 when we first caught him playing drums in Fat Creeps. Their EP was our first release on KLYAM Records. We also reissued his album “A Brief History of Slime.” Always fun, different, and inspiring in his countless projects over the years. Catch yer boy and a full band! https://kremlinbats.bandcamp.com/
The Swettes – The Swettes are reuniting!!!! A KLYAM fave. The Shaggs meets Paris Sisters with some Beat Happening in the family tree. Perfect for a first slow dance at the hop! https://theswettes.bandcamp.com/album/the-swettes
Andy California – Andy and Hilken and crew have been a big part of the KLYAM experience. If anyone is keeping Rock and Roll alive today it’s Andy. My favorite musician and performer! Also, check out Tunnel of Love, The Monsieurs, The Mardi Kings, and Puke Pisstols. Photo by Madison McConkey https://macchiorecords.bandcamp.com/
Nice Guys – We’ve booked this band more than anyone else we’ve booked (except our own bands haha) and seen them more than any other band. Over a 100 times! Hell, we even put out a split 45 with them and Miami Doritos. The flagship Allston basement Punk band of the 2010s. Couldn’t think of a better band to close out the KLYAM Stock! https://niceguys666.bandcamp.com/album/nice-guys-2
Noah Britton – Noah is one of our favorites and best friends. We met back in 2013 and have been enamored ever since! Seeing him, booking his bands, playing many shows together. Noah’s sets are equally beautiful and sad. And funny too. Unlike anything else we’ve ever experienced. https://noahbritton.bandcamp.com/music
Gossip Collar – GC are our favorite goth rockers and the perfect band as we enter spooky season. They just dropped their second LP Eaten of Worms! Featuring members of legendary Boston punks The Showcase Showdown, THE SPITZZ, and Secret Hearts! Photo by Stephan Scott. https://gossipcollar.bandcamp.com/album/eaten-of-worms
G. Gordon Gritty – Gritty is my co-conspirator! 17 years doing this shit! And wayyy beyond. We met as kids for real! Gritty and whole band (going over a decade now with a solid line-up) unleash a disorienting brand of Noise Rock that makes all other artists look like fakes! In the spirit of Garage Punk, Pop, and Rock and Roll, but Outsider Lounge music in the ears. Prepared to be annihilated! https://ggordongritty.bandcamp.com/
Nervous Guys – For folks who think Johnnie and the Foodmasters and G. Gordon are too artsy and intellectual. Gritty on guitar, Brian, on drums, and yours truly shouting. Initially an Icky Boyfriends tribute band and still sort of is with some other covers and antics. Rare Boston set. If you make it through to the end you are a sick fuck. https://ggordongritty.bandcamp.com/album/g-gordon-gritty-band-nervous-guys-split
Thanks for reading and any support! I will probably have some more posts about the KLYAM show throwing experience and shows in general. To be continued… For now, if you’re in the area, come party with us! – Chris
Honey Cassette – Intermittent Bursts of Light EP (2026)
Mesh – Not Fun At All (2026)
C.C.C.C. – Loud Sounds Dopa/Live in U.S.A. (1993)
Hijokaidan – King of Noise (1984)
Sweeping Promises – You Say I Romanticize (2026)
Rolling Stony – Demos (2017)
Zero Sanity -Demo II (2026)
H8 Mile – Spread the Love (2024)
H8 Mile – Pawn (2020)
The Bobbyteens – Back In The Saddle (2013 Compilation, 1990s)
Slade – Slayed (1972)
Screamin’ Jay Hawkins – The Night and Day of Screamin’ Jay Hawkins (1965)
Cheap Heat – Demo (2022)
Cheap Heat – Blank Void (2025)
City Kings – S/T (2021)
Useless Eaters – Music For Clout (2026)
Society – Reign of Flies (2026)
The Massacred – Nightmare Agitators (2025)
Sonny Sharrock – Black Woman (1970)
Butthole Surfers – Hairway to Steven (1988)
Butthole Surfers – Independent Worm Saloon (1993)
Teenage Head – S/T (1979)
Ruckus – S/T (2026)
Beck – Mellow Gold (1994)
The Cramps – Gravest Gravy (2026, recorded 1977)
Guided By Voices – Alien Lanes (1995)
Milk ‘N’ Cookies – S/T (1975) + Bonus Material (demos from 1973) (2016)
The Ronettes – Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes featuring Veronica (1964)
Dona Casque – Le Reflet De Maman (2026)
Lithophones – S/T (2026)
Farrah Abraham – My Teenage Dream Ended (2012)
Rejekts – S/T EP (2026)
August was a fun month! I saw the Cheater Slicks live and they were great! Probably the best show of the Summer (or year?). Alright, alright, alright here’s a few shout outs and ramblings…
Likewise Honey Cassette (featuring Foodmaster Lindie!) released their CD Intermittent Bursts of Light. Their music often reminds me of The Replacements and Dinosaur Jr. Perfect for a sunny Saturday afternoon. If only there was a chance to catch the band live in such a setting. Ohh well. WAIT A SECOND!!! HC happens to also be playing the KLYAM RETIREMENT PARTY on Saturday, September 19 at Lou-Ann David Park in Somerville! More on that in soon to come posts! https://honeycassette.bandcamp.com/album/intermittent-bursts-of-light
Fellow Bostonians Lithophones just released a tape as well. This ain’t your Daddy’s Garage Punk band. Or maybe it is actually! Better yet I should say this isn’t your teenager’s Garage Punk band. As the old saying goes “If the kids don’t hate it, it ain’t Rock and Roll!” These fellas are delivering fast, grimy Budget spunk unlike anybody else as of late. It’s a classic 90s/00s Gunk Punk, if you will, and these boys oughta know. Featuring ex Wong/Reatard/Tokyo Electron Daniel, Tampoffs Joe and Nick, and Hospital Rat Hank. Catch them at a dive bar near you! Complementing the sudden uprising of Rock and Roll in Boston/NE with Whyte Lipstick, Puke Pisstols, Adult Learners, Freak Phone, Orange Whip, and several more. Check it out: https://lithophones.bandcamp.com/album/lithophones
While we’re on that Rock and Roll kick (are we ever not?), a new kind of kick (that’s right) of an old stomp. Thanks to the masterminds of Henry Rollins, Ian Mackaye, Larry Hardy, and Poison Ivy herself, the long lost 1977 recording of The Cramps’ first album has been unearthed! Gravest Gravy. It seduced me right away and fans will recognize some of the tunes – in a sexier, slimier fashion.
Milk ‘N’ Cookies is a Glam rocker’s wet dream. They released their debut S/T album in 1975. NYC Power Pop amidst CBGB Punk. I had never heard the entire album until now. However, I have always been a huge fan of some of their singles and other songs. “Typically Teenage” is a go to Saturday night anthem. In addition the album, in 2016 Captured Tracks reissued a whole batch of recordings (their whole discography?) including demos from 1973. They sound like a drunken Garage band falling over each other in the studio or wherever they were. It’s quite a departure from the Glam Power Pop, but it’s equally endearing and a pleasant surprise.
That’s all I have for now. I’ll leave you with his mini movie from the Butthole Surfers since I just saw the documentary Butthole Surfers: The Hole Truth & Nothing Butt. See ya soon…. Chris
Jeff “Monoman” Conolly of legendary 70s Boston Punk/Rock and Roll bands DMZ and Lyres passed away at 69. I didn’t know him and have only listened to a little bit of his music. I became particularly fond of DMZ during lockdown. Both bands were integral in the development of Punk Rock. Straight up fun, Garage Punk that clearly had massive influence on several bands including many I admire. In fact, I think I first heard of them through covers from people like Teengenrate. It’s been cool hearing all of the stories (both good and bad!) from various rockers and older heads on my social media. My condolences to friends and family. RIP. – Chris
V/A – Summer Doo Wop Party with Chucko (2026, recorded 50s-70s)
Thee Milkshakes – Showcase (1984)
Thee Milkshakes – They Came They Saw They Conquered (1984)
Nirvana – From the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah (1996)
V/A – Dazed and Confused OST (1993, music from the 70s)
I.C.B.M. – Eyes of the State (2026)
The Phi Mu Washboard Band – Just Because (1966)
V/A – 45 Minutes of Unsettling 1930s Music
Power of Idea – Hyper Yellow Trash (1997)
The “B” Girls – Who Says Girls Can’t Rock? (1997)
The Sex Shoppe – S/T (2026)
Old Yeller – Demo (2026)
Alien Nosejob – How a Mosquito Operates (2026)
Matt K. Shrug – Gone Ashtray (2010, recorded 2007-2009)
L7 – S/T (1987)* RIP Jennifer Finch
L7 – Bricks Are Heavy (1991)
Oust – A Girl Can Dream 7” (2026)
Big Boys – Frat Cars EP (1980)
HIRS – Friends, Lovers, Favorites Demos (2016)
Tunnel of Love/Jack of Heart Split 7” (2006)
Tunnel of Love – Hottt Radio Revenge!!! (2008)
K.O. Queen – Girls! Girls! Girls! Tape (2026)
Louis Jordan – Knock Me Out Volume 2 (1940-1942, released in 1986)
The Redwoods – Never Take It Away 45 (1961)
The Young Lads – Graduation Kiss 45 (1963)
Black Lips – Wild Man 45 (2007)
Black Lips – Cold Hands 45 (2007)
The Mothballs – Come Out of the Closet 45 (2005)
The Fagettes – Volumes 1 and 2 Cassette (2011) *I LISTENED TO THE BANDCAMP YEARS AGO, BUT NEVER HEARD THIS PHYSICAL TAPE UNTIL NOW! *
Bugs and Rats/Northern Liberties Split 45 (2006)
My Birthday is July 15 (also St. Swithun’s Day), so of course this month always rules! I treated myself to some Chinese Food as is my tradition. I also indulged in various records and films. I received some sweet gifts! Alexander Payne’s debut film Citizen Ruth (1996). It’s not as good as some of his other movies like my beloved Election, but it’s an amazing debut and worth a watch. A biting political satire. But what really knocked me off my rocker was Dennis Hopper’s 1980 gut wrenching classic Out of the Blue (1980). Maybe I’ll do an extensive piece on this. I became obsessed with it. Watched it 5 or 6 times last week! Hopper also stars in the film. Well, the late great Linda Manz is the star; Hopper is a late, great too! But yeah, Manz is mesmerizing as the teenage Punk Rock/Elvis fanatic Cebe. She is a rough, unique presence. She articulates pain and bravado and humor all at once unlike anyone else I’ve ever seen. She first caught my eye as Solomon’s Mom in Harmony Korine’s Gummo. Korine loved her in OOTB and it was in his top 10 favorite films of all time. Can’t recommend this enough – sort of, it’s hard to recommend, because it’s not going to be for everyone (what is?!), but it’s an especially heavy film. From start to finish. But, the last half hour is brutal. A gut punch that never holds back. Keeps pummeling you until the end. Fun stuff haha.
Okay, but to the music! The records! The tapes! The digital files… not as cool, but cool stuff nonetheless. My man Noah Britton or in this instance Request Freedbird gave us another tearjerker in the extremely personal “RIP Ben Tan.” The album includes songs with Noah, Ben, and other friends, including while Ben was in hospice. To quote the album credits:
“On 4/23/2026, I visited Ben in hospice and he said, “if anything happens to me, sing ‘Freebird'” because the whole point of Request Freebird was that I’d never perform “Freebird.” We tried it right there, and this is that recording. I’d never sung this song in my life. I’m resurrecting the Request Freebird name just for this. The final Request Freebird song is “Freebird.” RIP Request Freebird and Ben Tan. Ben died of cancer on 5/14/2026.”
Indeed, we love you Ben! Always.
On a brighter note, I loved listening to two albums by Thee Milkshakes. I’ve only listened to them a little here and there. Led by the legendary Billy Childish. I’m more familiar with his other band Thee Heaadcoats. This is classic Rock and Roll. Made in the 80s, but keeping the 60s party alive in the best way possible – paving the road for all of us garage spunkers for years to cum.
This month I finally listened to Nirvana’s “From the Muddy Banks of the Wishkah.” Crazy it took this long! The reason I never gave it a listen was because I thought it was a greatest hits compilation. This whole time! I finally discovered it was a compilation of live performances. So, I gave it a whirl.
The Phi Mu Washboard Band’s “Just Because” is magnificent. I fell in love with their version of “Love Hurts” a few years back and finally got around to hearing the whole album now. 60s sorority Outsider Pop. Heaven for my ears.
The Sex Shoppe unleashed an impressive eponymous debut (?) album on Ragdoll Records in June. This really stood out to me! I don’t always get that feeling. Actually, I usually don’t. I was feeling Girl Fit vibes. Of course, when I went to the credits I saw Waylon Thornton and Baesha Thompson and realized this pretty much is the same band! At least same members. Girl Fit was one of my faves from 2024. In both instances the songs are more animated and memorable than most Punk I come across. LISTEN! https://ragdollrecords.bandcamp.com/album/the-sex-shoppe
Well your Birthday boy was/is one lucky camper. My Tunnel of Love/Andy Macbain discography is nearly complete. A my Bday show at The Sil, Mr. Macbain himself gifted me two Tunnel of Love records! Their split with Jack of Heart from 2006 and 2008’s “Hottt Radio Revenge!!!” If you don’t know Tunnel of Love, they were an extreme Rock and Roll gang from Brookline, MA. I’ve never heard anyone else this crazy. Their music is electrifying pandemonium and puts all other Budget Garage twerps to shame! You may recognize Andy also from such beloved Boston bands and KLYAM favorites as The Monsieurs, Andy California, Mardi Kings, and Puke Pisstols.
My current favorite Boston band K.O. Queen just put out their second album “Girls! Girls! Girls!” and of course I snagged a tape as soon as I could! I attended their album release show at their homebase Cambridge Community Center. It was off the hook. Every KO show is, but you could especially feel the love in the air or the sweat. They have put in a lot of work over the years and it shows. This latest album is crunchy and gunky and has all the raw, but equally fun quality their previous releases and live shows embody. Fans will recognize live standards such as “HIT POLICE” and the previously released “BUTCH BABY” and “DIE F*GGOT.” FFO The Crucifucks, Big Hog, Cexcrime, and a million other cool bands. Also thank you Queens for dedicating the album to Ben Tan (along with Char Clement) and for including us in your “Special thx” section!!! LISTEN: https://koqueen.bandcamp.com/album/girls-girls-girls
I finally got my greasy paws on the “Wild Man” 45 from Black Lips! I already owned the 1966 original by The Tamrons and I have a live recording of the Lips covering it. But just now I picked up a studio recording. Both the original and the Lips cover are among my all time favorite songs. Thee Headcoatees also do a mean rendition. It’s also probably the song I have sang the most in my life. Possibly! My old band (can’t believe I’m writing that) Johnnie and the Foodmasters used to cover it. I miss playing with my fellow Foodfuckers and I especially miss seeing Ben Tan. Lead Johnnie. We love you. Can’t say it enough.
Okay, I’m going to wrap this up. I can’t write about everything! In this day and age where everything appears to be accessible on your phone, physical media feels even more special to me. I love having something in the palms of my filthy hands. I geek out enough as is, but I particularly geek out when I come across shit you can’t find online! Or extremely rare. Boston homies (Quincy to be exact) Bugs and Rats put out a split record with Philly’s Northern Liberties in 2006. I saw Bug and Rat Shawnie posted a photo of it online and realized not only had I never heard it before, but I couldn’t find it online! Either I’m a terrible investigator or the recordings are simply not available online. I think the latter. Well, thanks to the holy Discogs, I was able to find one for sale and I got it!
One final one! You know I love me some Doo Wop! I find often when I mention the genre people have this image of wholesome, cutesy people singing in a slow,non threatening fashion. Granted that is sometimes the case, but that isn’t the whole story! Much Doo Wop is loud, thunderous, and will knock you flat on your fucking ass. What the PJ Doo Wop channel once described as “frantic.” My latest 45 purchase The Redwoods’ “Never Take It Away” is a perfect example of this style. It’s a banger! Makes most of my Punk records feel puny by comparison. Pleases listen below.
That’s all for now! If anyone reads this, thanks! – Chris
Next KLYAM show is this Monday, July 20 at The Silhouette Lounge in Allston and it’s a celebration of my (Chris) Birthday! More importantly one of the greatest Punk bands of all time, 70s Boston Punk legends, and a personal favorite, Unnatural Axe are playing!!! G.T. Arpe from Philly and local Garage Punk heroes Puke Pisstols (members of Monsieurs, Spittz, White Pages, and on and on!) round out this incredible bill! 7 Doors/8 Show, $10, 21+.
This month I am doing something a little different. I am not only going to share what I listened to these past four weeks, but also a recap of the past year! Last June is when I decided to make these monthly lists of everything I had been listening to. To clarify again when I say “everything” I mean anything I am listening to for the first time or if I can’t remember if I had listened to it before. Also, it has to be more than just a song or two. So, for example, albums, EPs, tapes, 45s, comps, demos, etc. I’ll start off with the current list here for June and then post the past 23 months after that. Bold indicates something I really dug and made a point to revisit. I might write little blurbs, but these aren’t reviews or anything like that. Plenty of cool shit is not in bold, it just didn’t stand out to me as re-listenable. Don’t base your tastes off of mine. Find out for yourself! This is more a way for me to keep track of what I’m listening to and possibly someone else gets exposed to a cool band or more too.
June 2026:
Sly and the Family Stone – There’s a Riot Goin’ On (1971)
Robert Johnson – The Complete Recordings (1990, released, 1936-1937, recorded)
The SS – Live (1979)
The SS – The Original EP (1984)
Kremlin Bats – Plays Songs from Great Britain and One That Isn’t (2025)
H8 Mile – Bail Hotel 7” (2026)
Xray Xeroxx – Off with Their Heads EP (2026)
Jacket Burner – Pig Vomit Sessions (2026)
MK Ultras – 7” EP (2026)
Ten Years After – Ssssh (1969)
Mick Trouble – Oddities and Sodsities EP (2022)
The Wyld Gooms – Wyld Gooms (2025)
The Marked Men – S/T (2003)
Mirrors/Electric Eels/The Styrenes – Those Were Different Times (1997, released, 1972-1976, recorded)
Clenchers – Demos (2025)
Hearts in Exile – S/T (2025)
Hard Copy – 12 Shots of Nature (2023)
Discreet Charms – S/T (2023)
Primus – Pork Soda (1993)
Shonen Knife – Burning Farm (1983)
The Zodiac Killers – The Most Thrilling Experience (1999)
Wanted/Rejekts – Split Tour Tape (2025)
The Cowboys – Captain Easy’s Downfall (2026)
Guyscrapers – Why? Scrapers (2025)
Mae Flux + The Boston Sympathy Orchestra – S/T (2026, recorded 2023)
V/A – Pebbles Volume 3 “The Acid Gallery” (1979, recorded mid 60s)
Devo – Duty Now for the Future (1979)
Sharp Pins – Balloon Balloon Balloon (2025)
Eddy Current Suppression Ring – In Light of Recent Events (2026)
Adult Learners – S/T 7” EP (2026)
Sam Cooke: Portrait of a Legend (1951-1964) (2003)
Guitar Wolf – More Jet (2026)
Finale – Yo-Yo EP (2026)
V/A – Election OST (1999)
The Replacements – Pleased to Meet Me (1987)
The Livids – Live in Cleveland (8/16/13)
Cherry Cheeks – D.O. & The Bytes LP (2026)
slobbercake – Big Goo (2026)
You may be thinking “Chris, what the fuck? Sam Cooke, The Replacements, Sly & The Family Stone, Robert Johnson, Devo not in bold???” Even though I enjoy and truly LOVE some of the songs and albums in these individual’s catalogs, I only bold the releases I’d like to revisit. I’m fairly satisfied with the Sam Cooke 45s I already know and love and for some own. ALSO, I’m more inclined to bold an obscure artist as most of them will fall through the cracks for me due to the overload of music I’m consuming, whereas, The Replacements and Devo and Cooke aren’t going anywhere in my mind. Also, there’s plenty of others here I enjoyed, but just didn’t stand out as much to me as re-listenable. Okay, with all the ugly business out of the way, what did I love this month? I heard this band The SS for the first time. Apparently the first Japanese Hardcore Punk band. Formed in 77, fuck they are one the first Hardcore bands ever! They play extremely fast. Their cover of “Blitzkrieg Bop” is crazy. According to Wikipedia they formed “for the sole purpose of making music that was faster than The Ramones.”
This was a solid month for rockers – old, new, near, and far. I’m a huge Electric Eels fan, so when I came across a comp of them with The Mirrors and The Styrenes I had to listen. EE was familiar territory, but the other two I didn’t know as well or at all? I can’t keep up anymore! That’s why I’m making these. I really loved The Mirrors’ song “How Could I?” Weird ass, early 70s Rock and Roll. I finally got around to listening to Shonen Knife beyond a few songs here and there. Their 1983 album Burning Farm was a blast. Perhaps it’s time to do a deep dive. An older head with a new release is here with Guitar Wolf’s More Jet. Newly released on Goner Records, which was the first release on the label in 93! As for younger heads. I had a steady stream of nastiness with Jacket Burner,H8 Mile, and XRay Xeroxx. Jacket Burner is slowly becoming a new fave! It’s not the most original sound in the world, but God I love the sound! Ramonesian Spits/Buck Biloxi in your face Punk Rock. Boston’s own Adult Learners put out a banger 45! Fast, catchy, Power Poppers you’ll get stuck in your head for weeks!
June (2025):
Captain Beefheart – Safe as Milk (1967)
Slags – Lick It (2025) EP
No Victim – Self-Titled Tape (2025)
At the Party! 16 Rompin’ Stompin’ Lease Breakin’ Tunes (1986 – songs from 50s, 60s or at least 60s!)
Cult Crime – Self-Titled (2025)
Liquids – Tennessee Rose EP (2025)
SexFaces – Young Team Demos (2023)
SexFaces – Bad Vibes OST LP (2025)
Lightning Bolt – Student Center 1994 1st Show (released in 2025)
Gay Mayor – Don’t Tread on Pete (2017)
Tombs – No Fucker (2023)
King Blood – Eye I Aye Ivy (2025)
Jean Mignon – Dirty Mean Fast (2024)
Atlantic Thrills – III (2025)
The Boys – The Boys (1977)
The White Wires – WWI (2008)
Artificial Go – Hopscotch Fever (2024)
Snorkler – Sleven Songs (2025)
The Intelligence – Live in SF (2016)
The Hunches – Dance Alone EP (2002)
The Hunches – Same New (2018)
The Hunches – The Hunches (2016)
Gino and The Goons – Gino and the Goons (2025)
Blacula OST (1972)
Heavenly Bodies – TAPE (2020)
Twisted Teens – S/T (2024)
Cause Commotion – It’s Time! Singles and EPs (2005-2008)
Patrol – S/T (2024)
Fib – Heavy Lifting (2025)
The Swankys – Very Best of Hero (1985)
The Samples – Demo EP (1981)
DFX – Four Songs EP (2024)
The Kirks – Get Out EP (1997)
Magic Juan – Will Power (1993)
L’il Bunnies – S/T EP (1995)
July:
Crush Fund – New Fixation EP (2024)
Closet Fairies – No Idea (2015 – recorded 2008 or 2009)
Jarsch – The Going Gets Tough (2025)
Elle Barbara – Délice Créole / Peach Purée (2021)
Elle Barbara – Word on the Street (2025)
Dipzit – Fast Demo (2025)
New Bomb Turks – Pissing Out the Poison compilation (1995)
Black Sabbath – The Master of Reality (1971)
ARSE – COMPLETE (2025)
Fuckin’ Lovers – Crucifixion of the Masses 7” (2025)
Artificial Go – Musical Chairs (2025)
Tunnel of Love Tape (early, unreleased recordings tape personally made for me! 1998-2001 including Power to Kill EP?!)
The Langley Schools Music Project – Innocence & Despair (2001 – recorded 1976/1977)
Pre-1977 Punk and Proto Punk Playlist (185 Miles South Podcast 2025)
1979 Hardcore and Punk Playlist (185 Miles South Podcast 2025)
Black Sabbath – Volume 4 (1972)
New Bomb Turks – Information Highway Revisited (1994)
New Bomb Turks – Scared Straight (1996)
New Bomb Turks – Rope’s End (1998)
Young Adults – Demo (2010)
Young Adults – Black Hole (2010)
Waylon Thornton – Hat Made of Hair (2025)
Waylon Thornton – Sunshine Vampire (2025)
Waylon Thornton – Screwballs Trip Folly (2025)
The Space Lady – The Space Lady’s Greatest Hits (2013)
Finale – Vision de Futuro (2020)
Hole – Live Through This (1994)
German Measles – A German Joke is No Laughing Matter (2011)
Snorkler – Hot Dignity Dog and Other Future Classics (2025)
Puppet Wipes – Live Inside (2025)
Puppet Wipes – it’s called punk are you stupid? (2018)
Brenda and The Tabulations – Dry Your Eyes (1967)
Доктор Лазер – Болимпиада EP (2025)
Infiltrators – S/T (2025)
The Mamas and the Papas – If You Can Believe Your Eyes and Ears (1966) *I probably heard before in its entirety, but I don’t recall and I just got the record!
Retail Simps – Tantic Decapitation: 64 Minutes of Trichotomy and Liquefaction (2025)
Dru the Drifter – The Plumber (2025)
Jeff Clarke/ Movie Star Junkies Split 7” (2025)
Malcolm McLaren – Swamp Thing (1985)
Blondie – Blondie (1976)
Megan Thee Stallion – Something for Thee Hotties (2021)
Norm Dogs – S/T (2025)
The Blisters – Fast Food 7” (1987)
185 Miles South 1980 Hardcore and Punk Playlist
The Cowboys – Captain Easy’s Downfall (2025)
GUM – Demo (2025)
SLOKS – “FLESH / STAB ME” 7” (2025)
Thought Partner – Work Cake (2021)
Jacket Burner – Eat Shit + Die (2025)
ADMIN – Systems EP (2025)
Useless Eaters – Egg Shell/Rub 7” (2025)
Thought Partner – When Your Money Fails (2025)
Gee Tee – Demo (2022 – unreleased tracks from a few years before that…)
Odd Future – 12 Odd Future Songs (2011)
Bitch Boys – Jag Trivs (1980)
KISS – KISS (1974)
Adult Learners – Demo 2025 (2025)
Killer Kin – Killer Kin (2023)
Hack Hack Hack – Demo 1st (2025)
Th Fingers – Isolation 7” (1978)
Sonic Youth – Bad Moon Rising (1985)
Teengenerate Live at the Empty Bottle (recorded 1995, released 2025)
Screen Star – Cop City EP (2025)
Snooper – Worldwide (2025)
Triple 6 Mafia – Body Parts (1-4) (1996, 1997, 2005, 2013)
The Teardrop Explodes – Richard Skinner Session (1981)
Frantix – My Dad’s a Fuckin’ Alcoholic (recorded 1982-1983, released 2014)
Butter Swamp – Nightmare On Butter Street! (2025)
KNEE – S/T EP (2024)
Whyte Lipstick – Deadbeat (2025)
P.V. – Behold (A dude) (2025)
December:
Split System – No Cops in Heaven/Pull the Trigger 7” (2025)
Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band – Gorilla (1967)
Larry & the Jerks – Kicked in the Head by Joe Devola (2024)
Citric Dummies – “Split With Turnstile” (2025)
The Paris Sisters – Sing Everything Under the Sun (1967)
Angel Face – Out in the Street (2025)
Premier Lawn Service- Pissed Off EP (2025)
Half – HALF Live Demo (2025)
Candypants – Candypants (2000)
Glueman – Glueman III (2025)
Outside View – 2025 Cuts (2025)
Spooky Visions – Unraveled EP (2025)
The Chocolate Watchband – The Inner Mystique (1968)
Country Christmas
Ray Coniff
Dean Martin
Baby Tyler – Sucker with a Dream (2025)
Freak Phone – Demo (2025)
Shitcontrol – Hungriga, Frusna och Lamslagna (2025)
Proglottid – Bodies Change to Dust (2018)
Electric Light Orchestra – A New World Record (1976)
DISPO – “Idüll” (2025)
Thomas Jefferson Slave Apartments – Negative Guest List (1994)
Laughing Corpse – Beyond Recognition 7” (2025)
Cheap Fix – Re-animator Blues 7” (2025)
Giustino DiGregorio – Sprut (1995)
Tive – 恥部 (2022)
Coffin Lids – Live Trash (Abbey Lounge Records) “The Nice Price” (2005)
Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend (2025)
Bang! Bros – Hard Rocks Volume 1 (2012)
Itches – House Animal Included (2025)
Les Rallizes Dénudés – Heavier Than a Death in the Family (2002)
Institute – Salt EP (2014)
Hickey – Us vs Them 7” (1995)
Enuf – Demo (1988)
Doc Corbin Dart – Patricia (1990)
2026:
January:
Formaldehyde Junkies – …Are A Total Wreck EP (2005)
Subjects – Self-Titled Tape (2025)
Happy Farm – Demo (2025)
Hot Chicks – Reloaded (2025)
Science Man – Monarch Joy – Part 3 – or The Laughing Hour (2025)
Wasted Pido – Same Shit Everywhere (2025)
Puke Pisstols – The Lost Recordings (2026)
Thee Amazing Andy California – Stomp EP (2026, older recordings)
Beatniks – Beatniks EP (2016)
Bobbyteens – I Wanna Go 7” (1998)
Supreme Dicks – The Unexamined Life (1993)
Phil & The Spectras -Every Night 7” (2026)
Hurts & Noises #19 Johnny Sick Mixtape (2025)
Sick Thoughts – Goner LP Demos (2019)
Thomas Jefferson Slave Apartments – Bait and Switch (1995)
Teengenerate – Audio Recording (1993)
Teengenerate – Savage!!! (1996)
Mala Vista – Snub Nose .38 7” EP (2025)
Beer – Beer III EP (2025)
Pisaur – SZKODLIWY NIZ ZNAD POLSKI 7” (2025)
Ultimatum – Demo (2025)
Flippeur – Elastique (2025)
Tee Vee Repairman – Goner and Total Punk 7” (2025)
D.I.V.A. and Jacket Burner – Split (2025)
Big Hog + Resource Network Split (2025)
Rearranged Face – Rear Ranged Face EP (2025)
February:
Pain Teens – Destroy Me Lover (1993)
Dope Yeti – Junkie Sunbeam (2022)
$2 Romance – Wicked Lobster (2023)
Ornette Coleman – The Shape of Jazz to Come (1959)
V/A – He’s Bad! 11 Bands Decimate The Beats of Bo Diddley (2021)
Bo Diddley – Have Guitar Will Travel (1960)
Nicole Kidman – Nicole Kidman (2009)
Jeff Unfortunately – Sitcom Songs (2025)
The Car Thieves – Everybody’s Going Ape! 7” (1993)
Only God Forgives – Extra Strength (2025)
Jaguar 777 – Jaguar 777 (2026)
W-9 (demo) (2026)
Itchy and the Nits – Greetings From… (2026)
Adam Green – Chop Off Heads with Me (2026)
Rotten Apples – “as is” (2011)
Virgin Mega Whore – The Doorknob of San Diego EP (2005)
Sex Cult – Plain Jane 7” (2012)
Snare & The Idiots – Recycled Garbage EP (1985)
Riff Randells – S/T 7” (2000)
Clorox Girls – Baby 7” (2003)
Junior Varsity – Pep Rally Rock! 7” (1997)
The Brentwoods – You Broke My Heart (I Broke Your Jaw) 7” (1995)
Pagans – Six and Change 7” (1977)
Jeanie & The Tits – Slut Fame 7” (2007)
Wristwatch – III (2026)
The Cramps – Stay Sick (1989)
Gavin Caine – Is Lemons (2025)
Straight Arrows – Middleman/Do the Sloth 7” (2026)
Wicked Witch – Unreleased LP (1978)
BZDET – Dwa Wymiary (2026)
DBR – “Unbearable” (2026)
Various – Anxious Color: 60’s Garage Rock Psychedelic Moody Bands RARE Music Compilation ALBUM LP (2014)
ZULO – El Álbum Blanco (2026)
Nitwitz – First 7” EP (1980)
Billie Holiday – Great Women of Song (2023)
Tiny Tim – God Bless Tiny Tim (1968)
March:
Carbonas – Your Moral Superiors: Singles and Rarities (2018)
The Coathangers – The Coathangers (2007)
Asian Women on the Telephone – So Wot (2018)
Lithophones – Demos (2026)
Sexaphone – Lost Connections: 2004-2025 (2026)
Times New Viking – Dig Yourself (2005)
Fang – Land Shark! (1983)
The Showcase Showdown – Permanent Stains (1999)
The Showcase Showdown – All the Presidents’ Heads (1994)
The Showcase Showdown/The Twerps Split 8 Inch (1997)
Puke Pisstols – Street Demos (2026)
Miles Davis – Bitches Brew (1970)
Al Green – Let’s Stay Together (1972)
Itches – Itches (2020)
Men + Volts – Cape Cod Sessions (1985)
GG Allin and The Criminal Quartet – Carnival of Excess (1995)
Rites of Spring – Rites of Spring (1985)
Tales of Terror – S/T (1984)
Marine Girls – Beach Party (1981)
The Wrecks – Teenage Jive Demo (1982)
Liquids – “January 2026” (Lots of Songs/Covers) (2026)
The Clash – Polydor Demos (1976)
Birth Rejects – Demo (2026)
Public Error – Internet Blues (2026)
The Misfits – Many Tapes Vol. 1 (1977/Released 2025)
Panty Raid – Erotic Drama Demo Tape (1999)
Institute – S/T 7” (2026)
Foams – Gay Boys EP (1981)
Bad Times – Chicago, IL – May 21, 2005 at The Empty Bottle (2005)
No Justice – Still Fighting 7” (1999)
U.A.V. – Self-Titled Tape (2026)
Janitor Scum – S/T (2016)
Yankee Bastard – Seongun EP (2026)
DMZ – The Lost Studio Sessions (1978 recorded, 2026 released)
Cheers to us! I didn’t feel like waiting till tomorrow haha. Tomorrow, June 27th, marks the 17th anniversary of Kids Like You & Me (KLYAM)! The best thing I’ve done with my life. It’s been a pleasure of listening to all of these wonderful, weird bands – near and far – over the years! Listening, seeing live, writing, booking, releasing records and tapes, podcasting, spinning records, and even playing shows of our own! We’ve met countless heads over the years and been able to share our love of music with all of y’all and likewise. Been exposed to so many great artists new and old and hopefully we’ve turned some of you on to some cool shit too! Ultimately though, the real best part of all of this is having my best friend, Gritty, by my side. Whether it was before we knew anyone else and we showed up to every show obnoxiously early before anyone else; front and center, to now knowing most of the people in the room. Either way, happy to have each other. We still catch up daily to discuss our favorite bands and share our spiels. It’s what I’m most grateful for in life.
What’s next for us?! To be frank (and this is why a band decided to call themselves Stop Calling Me Frank!) we’re going to dial it back a bit. Not leaving you. Don’t worry! But, we may be going off to college in the Fall! Get early on it! KLYAM is 17 now and getting a little old for the kids’ table!
I’ll leave you with a few of my favorite songs of all time. Just a few! One per decade. We’ll start with the 30s. And in the grand traditions of KLYAM, a little bit expected, a little bit random! Here we go…
*Black Lips did this amazing cover that really got me into the song and it became one of my favorites. A standard of mine on vocals for Johnnie an the Foodmasters. The original is by The Tamrons from 1966 and it’s one of the best Rock and Roll songs I have ever heard. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Fc8tmiQVblk&list=RDFc8tmiQVblk&start_radio=1
With the exception of Saralee, I didn’t include any Boston artists here, because there’s too many local favorites to name and I’m sure I’ll have more on that in the future. BUT if you crave any of my tastebuds and want to hear more of my playlists or recommendations, I have plenty!!! Local annd everywhere! Here’s one I made a couple years back of most of my favorite local artists (2009-2024) for the KLYAM 15th Anniversary. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_4UVdsc_ps&list=PL287kpvhH9PxCz8yAi03LXR5hBUjWe0g6
Of course, I can’t do a KLYAM celebration post without honoring someone incredibly near and dear to the KLYAM fam as anyone else, our dear departed friend, Ben Tan. RIP Ben. (1990-2026). KLYAM won’t be the same without you. Boston won’t be the same without you. Life won’t be the same without you. Much love brother. Until we meet again, my friend.
Last, but certainly not least, check out my PIC, the King of Slop himself, NYC’s finest, none of other than G. Gordon Gritty!!! https://ggordongritty.bandcamp.com/
TOMORROW NIGHT! Saturday, June 6, throwing a kickass show at O’Brien’s Pub in Allston, MA! 7 Doors/8 Show. A mere $10 buck biloxies, what a steal! We here at KLYAM know you have several options on this demonic day. Relax Damien, we got you! Let’s make the case for why you should haul your ass over to O’Brien’s! Rumor has it OBs is closing for two years while they reconstruct it with the new Great Scott. That’s what I was told. Don’t shoot the messenger! The opportunities to savor a moment at your favorite Allston bar venue are numbered….
If that doesn’t convince you… the line up is sick and weird as fuck in the grand traditions of KLYAM.
Kingdom Harm is an art piece more than a band. You have to experience it live. It’s noise and quiet at the same time. DVD Extras, featuring Cody from Pangs, will follow them with a fun, rocking set. Next up is new kids on the block, industrial two piece Sunrise//Pripyat. Closing out the show are local steady eddies (and only good jam band???) The Blues Dreambox!
