The Dicks-Dicks Hate Police 7" (1981[?])

I'm assuming most of you know this one, but if you don't, boyhowdy, bopper, are you in for a treat! Austin's Dicks, along with the Big Boys and MDC, formed the van guard of the States' queer punk scene. They woulda been a great band regardless of who these guys liked to sleep with, however: this 3-song EP is a blistering example of American punk in its prime.

The Dicks and Big Boys both went in for weirder, more durable sounds at a time when everyone else in the U.S. punk was trying, and failing, to sound like Bad Brains and/or Black Flag. Off-kilter guitar twang, Gary Floyd's deep, bluesy howl, and amusing commentary on this country's ills really set these guys apart. "Hate the Police" is a brilliant slice of disgusted analysis of a racist cop who's had a bad day; the guitar sets a slow burn lead that sounds more urgent than MDC ever could. "Lifetime Problems" ends with Floyd cackling maniacally and that goddam guitar squalls to match him. "All Night Fever" is my new favorite tune to start a bout of drinking to: a slender, sinuous bass line introduces a hammering beat that almost sounds funky. Any girls wanna dance to this? Well, I'm in Italy so how do I say that in Italian? Whatever.

LIFETIME PROBLEMS. Apparently the Dicks are alive and well and back together. Check 'em out if they're playing in a town near you.