Where Next Columbus? - Crass
"Where Next Columbus?" is a track by the British punk rock band Crass, released on their album "Penny Rimbaud's Christ's Reality Asylum" in 1981. The song is a scathing critique of Christopher Columbus and the destructive impact of colonialism on indigenous peoples. The track features spoken word vocals by Penny Rimbaud, accompanied by a haunting and atmospheric musical backdrop. The composition of the song is minimalist, with sparse instrumentation that allows the powerful lyrics to take center stage. The lyrics of "Where Next Columbus?" condemn the violence, exploitation, and cultural erasure that accompanied Columbus's voyages to the Americas. The song challenges the glorification of Columbus as a hero and calls for a reexamination of history from the perspective of the oppressed. One notable fact about the track is that it was released by Crass, a band known for their politically charged lyrics and DIY ethos. "Where Next Columbus?" exemplifies the band's commitment to using music as a platform for social commentary and activism. Overall, "Where Next Columbus?" is a thought-provoking and powerful song that challenges listeners to confront the dark legacy of colonialism and imperialism.
Crass
Crass was an English punk rock band formed in 1977, whose music and ethos played a pivotal role in shaping the punk movement in the UK. The band was founded by lead vocalist Steve Ignorant, guitarist and vocalist Penny Rimbaud, and vocalist Eve Libertine, among others. Crass rose to prominence during the late 1970s and early 1980s, with their music characterized by its raw, aggressive sound and politically charged lyrics. The band's music often addressed issues such as war, capitalism, consumerism, and social injustice, reflecting their anarchist and pacifist beliefs. Their debut album, "The Feeding of the 5000," released in 1978, was a manifesto of sorts for the band, showcasing their uncompromising stance on political and social issues. One of Crass's most notable achievements was the founding of their own record label, Crass Records, which enabled them to release their music independently and maintain complete creative control over their work. The band also made headlines for their DIY approach to producing and distributing their music, eschewing traditional music industry practices in favor of self-reliance and autonomy. Crass's impact on music extends beyond their musical output, as they were instrumental in popularizing the DIY punk ethos and inspiring a generation of musicians to challenge the status quo and use their music as a platform for social and political activism. The band's influence can be seen in the music of numerous punk and alternative rock bands that followed in their wake, as well as in the broader punk movement as a whole. Despite disbanding in 1984, Crass's legacy continues to resonate with fans and musicians alike, as their music and message remain as relevant and powerful as ever. The band's uncompromising approach to music and activism has solidified their place as one of the most important and influential punk bands in history.