Big Black
Big Black was one of the most influential noise-rock bands of the 1980's. They were formed in 1982 by fanzine writer Steve Albini, who had already made a name for himself for his controversial "Tired of Ugly Fat?" column in the Chicago 'zine Matter. At the time, the band only consisted of Albini and his drum machine Roland. He released the Lungs EP to try and recruit people for his band. Most copies came with little freebies such as used condoms and dollar bills.The next year Naked Raygun singer Jeff Pezzati and Naked Raygun guitarist Santiago Durango joined the band, on bass and guitar, respectively. They recorded two EPs together, and Pezzati left the band soon after. He was replaced by Dave Riley.
The band soon made a name for themselves nationally for their musical extremism and controversial lyrics. People who didn't understand that their songs were either social commentary or rather inappropriate jokes (often both) assumed that the band was sexist and racist. Albini responded to these accusations by making his lyrics even more offensive than before.
In 1987, Durango announced that he was leaving the band to attend law school. The band realized this would be a good time to stop, as they didn't want to turn into the Rolling Stones. They released one final album, Songs About Fucking, and broke up. Steve Albini went on to become a successful producer for bands like Nirvana, Jesus Lizard, Slint, and the Pixies, as well as playing in Rapeman and Shellac. Dave Riley had a stroke and fell in (and out of) a coma in 1993. Santiago Durango is still a lawyer.
Discography
Compilations
