Cramps' Lost Tapes Resurface: A Psychobilly Revival

The influential psychobilly band The Cramps are experiencing a revival, spearheaded by musicians Henry Rollins and Ian MacKaye. Their previously unheard 1977 collection, 'Gravest Gravy,' produced by Alex Chilton, is set for release on August 21 via Vengeance Records. This initiative also aims to reissue the band's back catalog and make rare performance videos available.

The Cramps, formed in 1976 by Lux Interior and Poison Ivy, blended punk, rockabilly, and surf music. Their cult status was amplified in 2022 when their 1977 song 'Goo Goo Muck' became a viral hit after featuring in the Netflix series 'Wednesday.'

Rollins and MacKaye, who were deeply influenced by the band, are volunteering their time to help bring this music back. They meticulously reviewed the master tapes, stored in challenging conditions, to select the best versions of the 'Gravest Gravy' tracks. This project is a heartfelt tribute to a band that significantly impacted underground music.

Poison Ivy, the guitarist and surviving constant member, has partnered with longtime friends to relaunch the band's Vengeance label. While she remains reclusive, she is the primary beneficiary of these reissues, with plans to donate some proceeds to charity. The release of 'Gravest Gravy' is a poignant event, commemorating the band's legacy while acknowledging the passing of other key members and collaborators.