Kudgel...

The Boston, Massachusetts band Kudgel wasn’t around for a very long however their music played a big role in basically developing what came to be known as “chimp rock”. The sound for it is described as such in their bio, “spastic and overblown-guitar driven noise-pop, infused with a bubblegum sensibility that belied the complexity of their song structure”. Pretty accurate really, although they were much nosier and abrasive than some of the bands that they are mentioned along with, such as the Swirlies…which is saying a lot.

Kudgel’s existence was pretty rough to say the least. It’s surprising that they even stayed together as long as they did. Complete with member changes, horrible tour experiences, and trouble in finding any interest to what they were doing. It’s a shame really, but thankfully the band was able to stick it out and release enough material that was eventually compiled on a release called Chimp is Dead on Super 8 Records. Featuring 20 tracks of odd ends and their singles, it’s a pretty comprehensive look at a band that never really has gotten its due. Although, just last year Midriff Records took interest and re-released the bands original 10” record Sea Monkee on compact disc along with seven extra tracks. I think that’s just about the only thing the band even has in print at this point, which is a shame.

Kudgel – Chicken Pump [MP3]
Kudgel – Nozzle (old version) [MP3]
Kudgel – Scrapple [MP3]
Kudgel – 280x (Chimp is Dead) [MP3]

For anyone that is a fan of noise-rock then I can’t imagine not owning anything by this band. It looks as if Amazon might have copies of Chimp is Dead available, however if not there are also a couple used copies apparently for sale too. I would strongly urge for those that don’t have it to pounce on that. It’s completely worth it. Also, their re-release of Sea Monkee is still available over at CD Baby.