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I read on the "Internets" that an icon to the
US punk rock scene had passed away last week in Spain. A man
who helped define bass playing for the punk rock, hardcore
genre in the early 80's and who played in such legendary bands
as MDC, DRI and the Offenders. Mikey's PR roots were defined
in Austin, TX, but his ability to play transcended continents.
He died in his sleep, just like Joe Strummer. Seems
to be punk rock dudes have a short life span. Life fast, die
young.
When you get over 40, these type of passing always bring
a cold slap of reality and another slap in your face of your
mortality and how short life can be. Forty-six is young, but
when I was 20 it seemed old. Now it is waiting for me around
the corner.
I didn't know Mikey Donaldson, but I liked the bands he played
in and the sound of his bass. MSIG gives its best to his friends
and family. I know he will live on in his music and the recordings
he left behind. He spent his final days in Amsterdam playing in a band with
ex-BGK members. BGK was a great early eighties Dutch band
that can also be heard on the Peace/War album, along with
MDC and the Offenders. That CD by the way is a really great
double album from 1984. I found it on CD years ago and if
you find it, buy it. Nuff said.
While I am at it, here is a list of his recording that I
think are worthwhile.
DRI - Dealing with it and the first 12" Dirty Rotten
Imbeciles
MDC - Magnus Dominus Corpus, this just came out in 2004,
it was with the original lineup in Austin from 1981.
Offenders - Endless Struggle - not sure if this is on cd,
I burned my album to disc, fucking great shit here. Ferocious
hardcore. Check out "Impact" and you will get what
I mean about his presence.
RIP Mikey Offender. Died at 46 in his sleep.
Shows you the only thing Texas is worth for is its music
and the musicians who play it. Now the politicians are another
thing....
Here's a picture from the 2005 MDC tour that Patrick shot.
My camera was out, so thanks to Patrick for capturing this
moment.
For more pictures from this show check out the MDC
profile from 2005 and 1991.
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