On August 13, 1983, the punk band Dead Kennedys ignited a fervent performance at Brisbane’s Festival Hall, an event that would later be overshadowed by a controversial incident involving their drummer, D.H. Peligro. Supported by local acts like the Johnnys and the Black Assassins, the Dead Kennedys played to an enthusiastic crowd, but the night took a dramatic turn when Peligro was arrested by police, allegedly due to racial profiling.
Singer Jello Biafra addressed the political climate in Queensland during the concert, speaking out against the regime of Premier Joh Bjelke-Petersen. Following the show, as concertgoers spilled onto the streets, Peligro found himself the target of police scrutiny. While enjoying an unopened can of beer, he was approached by officers who used derogatory terms. Peligro’s inquiry into his treatment led to his arrest for “obscene language” and “resisting arrest.”
Reflecting on the night, guitarist East Bay Ray recounted, “We were hanging out on the sidewalk just talking to some fans… and the police came by. And they only stopped D.H. because he was black.” This incident sparked outrage and highlighted the racial tensions present in Brisbane at the time.
Legacy of the Dead Kennedys
Decades later, the Dead Kennedys are back on tour, with performances scheduled across Australia, celebrating over four decades of their influential music. With founding members East Bay Ray and Klaus Flouride, the band has adapted to changes, including the passing of Peligro in 2022, now replaced by drummer Steve Wilson. Their return comes amidst a renewed interest in their classic album, Fresh Fruit for Rotting Vegetables, which features iconic tracks such as “Kill the Poor” and “Holiday in Cambodia.”
Ray reflects on the band’s journey, stating, “We weren’t sure we were going to carry on, but we had some tours booked when he passed suddenly.” The Dead Kennedys have retained their relevance, with Warwick Vere, owner of Brisbane’s Rocking Horse Records, noting, “When Fresh Fruit came out, it was one of our big sellers, and they still have a lot of relevance these days.”
The band’s political edge has always been part of their identity. Their name itself is a commentary on the American dream, rejecting schadenfreude associated with the Kennedy family. They have tackled issues head-on, even penning the song “Nazi Punks F— Off” in response to troubling audience behavior during performances.
Reflections on a Controversial Past
In a reflection on the past, Ray pointed out the similarities between the 1980s political climate in Queensland and that of the southern United States during the 1950s. “Our view was that Brisbane, Queensland, was kind of like the southern United States in the 1950s,” he said. This perspective was echoed by Vere, who described the police state mentality of the time, remarking on the significance of Peligro’s arrest.
Despite the challenges, including a legal dispute that led to Biafra’s departure from the band, the surviving members have continued to carry the Dead Kennedys’ legacy forward. Their upcoming tour marks not only a celebration of their music but also a reminder of the socio-political issues that continue to resonate today.
The Dead Kennedys are set to perform at various venues, including the Northcote Theatre in Melbourne on September 19, the Tivoli in Brisbane on September 20, and the Astor Theatre in Perth on September 24. As they revisit their storied past, the band continues to engage with audiences that appreciate their unyielding spirit and musical contributions.
