A Review Of Punk Band The Magnolias

By Arthur Gibson


When it comes to punk, the sound is often an acquired taste. For example, the magnolias based out of Minneapolis, MN and fronted by John Freeman has a number of dedicated fans. While this is the case, the group originally formed in 1984 though have had several line up changes over the years. In fact, Freeman is the only original member.

With regards to the sound, the group appears to be caught somewhere between punk and metal. For, with buzz-saw guitar attacks, an intense rhythm section and John's caterwauling and awesome writing, when fans hear the group, they know its John Freeman's band. Whereas, as the members seem to change on a revolving basis, the sound can often change as well.

With influences of, and sound similar to, the Clash, Undertones, Buzzcocks and Real Kids, it is interesting that the band has not been more successful. Whereas, as punk and new wave were biggest in the 1990s, there only a few punk rockers still playing live shows or going on tour. As a result, a number of venues have stopped booking punk gigs due to a lack of interest.

In 1992, the band released an EP and one LP after signing with Alias Records. Then, later released Street Date Tuesday, in 1996 on the Twin/Tone label. A label which carried the band earlier in their career. Whereas, in the late 1990s and early 2000s, the group experienced a rather slow period.

Once Better Late Than Never, an LP consisting of unreleased demo tracks and outtakes came out in 2007 along with an EP, the group went on an European tour in 2008, not returning home until 2009. With the tour being a success, the group saw the need for live shows and went on to record and play live shows from 2009 to 2011. While currently on a break, the group hopes to reform and tour in the near future.

While hosting a fan page on Facebook, it appears the page has not been updated recently. For, the schedule suggest the next gig would be in July of 2017. Still, it is reported that the group still plays sporadically on an improvisational basis. Whereas, if still playing live shows, the band has also been known to play weddings and other events.

At last notice line up included Dave Randall, Pat McKenna, Mike Leonard and John Freeman. Whereas, past members have included Tom Lischmann, John Joyce, Ron Anderson, Kyle Killorin, Tom Cook, Sam Planet, Kent Militzer, Caleb Palmiter, Johnny O'Halloran, Danna Stewart, Dave Wiegardt and Eric Kassel. Unlike other bands, there are no listings as to which instruments were played by which musicians.

If looking for information on current members, the band or show dates, check out the Fan page on Facebook. For, it does not appear the group has an official website at this point and time. Whereas, as the last show is listed in 2017, it is also unclear as to whether there will be other gigs in the future.




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