The Post Punk Nightmare

The South isn't so much known for its contribution to the punk rock genre but it's not without its gems. One standout is the Athens, Georgia group Pylon who have earned the distinction of being heralded as pioneers in the Georgia power pop scene.

The band who take their name after the William Faulkner novel is drummer Curtis Crowe, lead vocalist Vanessa Briscoe, bassist Michael Lachowsky and guitarist Randy Bewley. The group formed in 1979 preceding contemporaries the likes of REM and the B'52's who both cite the Pylons as a significant influence in their music making.

Pylon on this album is completely high energy at every go as they travel through a spacy, atmospheric din. It's an on the run stretch through piss and vinegar attitude that, while not varying much, pumps and explodes its way into a completely unique sound. A sound that is a mangly, manic, and jagged form of jangle pop and the punky, dancey tunes features such beautifully scratched, incantatory yells of Briscoe who spits tales of freedom and escape.

The download here is a copy of their first album which was rereleased by DFA records in 2007 with remastered, expanded, and newly ordered track listing with a small assortment of bonus tracks. Do Enjoy.

Pylon - Gyrate (1980)