Bad Brains are a legendary DC punk band that have influenced many great artists including the Beastie Boys. Noah Shussett attended their recent concert at the 9:30 club and recounts the experience. Photographs taken by Allison Basker.
It’s all over. Election night in Washington and the spontaneous street celebrations from the results of the election has come and gone. A historic night in The District got kicked off before the late night dancing in the street, when the 9:30 Club opened its’ doors and cast over 1000 smiling and sweaty faces of riled up punk rockers onto the sidewalks after DC’s show of the decade.
Bad Brains, the dub-reggae-legends of hardcore punk—the most unique, recognizable and influential band of their time—had just played their first show in their hometown since an “unofficial” ban against them amongst music venues was enacted more than 20 years ago. The significance of Bad Brains playing the very same club that is rumored to have made their ban stick in the 80’s was dwarfed by the fact that America was on the cusp of electing it’s first African-American President. Consider that the band are practicing Rastafarians, also African-American. Where else would you want to be on election night besides a dream show on the night of a dream realized?
The line stretched halfway down the block on V Street and the door staff was out in full force patting people down. The energy entering the club was infectious, even the ticket takers were more plucky and forthcoming than normal. The sold out show was near filled and the sense of impending madness could be felt throughout the club. Story continues after the jump. (more…)
