Viva Dictators! by The Dictators
Release date: July 12, 2005

Proto-punk band, The Dictators, formed in New York City in 1974. Originally created as a tribute to the likes of the MC5, Flaming Groovies, New York Dolls, and the Stooges, they deserve applause just for their longevity alone. They are a motivated powerhouse, to say the least, especially live. Considered 'pop punk for grownups' by some, punk fans both young and old can appreciate their dark and hardened lyrics, applying humor, aggression, and attitude. Their style is as melodic and driving as the Ramones, yet as powerful as The Who. Though The Ramones are considered the first 'real' punk band, these guys were belting out similar tunes not too far away from them, at just about the same time. Since reforming in 1991, The Dictators have been touring constantly.

Recorded at Maxwell's in New Jersey and The Bowery Ballroom in New York, Viva Dictators! is 15 of their proto-punk classics, and also a bonus track recorded at sound check. It's a perfect display of the band doing what they do best--a live show. Ross 'the Boss' Funichello and Scott 'Top 10' Kempner are both incredibly tight and forthright guitarists. Their tones are pure punk heaven. Andy Shernoff's bass and JP 'Thunderbolt' Patterson's drumming make up an amazing, driving rhythmic section. The vocal abilities of both Handsome Dick Manitoba and Andy Shernoff are as mannishly harmonious and as intense these days as back in the '70s. This is smartass rock 'n' roll at its finest. Give it a good listen. You'll be crankin' up the volume and jumping up and down with the beat in no time at all. A live show featuring the Dix is the real deal.

The Dix are:
Handsome Dick Manitoba: lead vocals
Andy Shernoff: bass, lead vocals
Ross 'the Boss' Funichello (also ex Manowar): guitar, vocals
Scott 'Top 10' Kempner: guitar, vocals
JP 'Thunderbolt' Patterson: drums

Viva Dictators! Track listing

1) Intro

2) New York, New York

3) Haircut and Attitude

4) Master Race Rock

5) Avenue A

6) Baby Let's Twist

7) Weekend

8) Pussy and Money

9) Who Will Save Rock & Roll

10) Next Big Thing

11) Minnesota Strip

12) What's Up With That

13) Faster & Louder

14) I Am Right

15) Stay With Me

16) Two Tub Men

17) Cars and Girls (Bonus Track)

Recorded live at Maxwell's and The Bowery Ballroom
Producer: Andy Shernoff
All songs written by: Andy Shernoff
Recording Engineer: Gerry Griffin
Mix Engineer: Greg Gordon
Cover Art: Cliff Mott
Label: New Media Studio

Links
The Dictators
Press and media information
Amazon.com
www.escapimusic.com