Kraut

ByLets Go Punk
Kraut formed in New York City in 1981

Kraut was a New York City punk rock and hardcore punk band formed in 1981 by Doug Holland, and the group moved quickly from early high profile shows into self released records on their own label before expanding their sound and later returning for a one off reunion in the 2000s.

Early lineup

The original members were Davy Gunner on vocals, Doug Holland on guitar and vocals, Don Cowan on bass and vocals, and Johnny Feedback on drums and vocals.

First shows and first singles

Kraut’s first performance was opening for the Clash at Bonds International Casino in New York on June 11, 1981. That same year, the band released the singles “Kill for Cash” and “Unemployed” on their own Cabbage Records label.

An Adjustment to Society

While recording their debut album An Adjustment to Society, produced by Ryk Oakley, Kraut also opened for the Professionals at The Channel in Boston. Former Sex Pistols guitarist Steve Jones became friends with the band and recorded additional guitar tracks for three songs on the album: “Kill for Cash,” “Sell Out,” and “Onward.” The album was self released again and distributed by Faulty Products.

A video clip for “All Twisted” appeared on MTV, and the bio describes this as making Kraut the first independent band to be played on the station.

Whetting the Scythe and touring

The band released the mini album Whetting the Scythe in 1984 and toured the United States.

Lineup additions and a heavier direction

By the mid 1980s, Kraut added a second guitarist, Christopher Smith of Battalion of Saints, and the band developed a more hard rock and metal leaning sound.

Afterward and a reunion at CBGB

Doug Holland later played for the New York hardcore band Cro Mags. In 2002, Kraut reunited with all four original members for a show at CBGB during the New York Thrash reunion, which led to the live album Live at CBGB’s.

Studio albums

  • An Adjustment to Society (1982, Cabbage Records and Faulty Products)
  • Whetting the Scythe (1984, Cabbage Records and Enigma Records)
  • An Adjustment to Society (2024, Cleopatra Records)

Singles

  • “Kill for Cash” 7 inch (1981, Cabbage Records)
  • “Unemployed” 7 inch (1981, Cabbage Records)
  • “Kill for Cash” 7 inch (2024, Cleopatra Records)
  • “Unemployed” 7 inch (2024, Cleopatra Records)

Live albums

  • Night of Rage (1989, New Red Archives)
  • Live at CBGB’s (2004, New Red Archives)

Compilation albums

  • The Movie (1990, New Red Archives)
  • Complete Studio Recordings 1981 to 1986 (1995, New Red Archives)

Compilation appearances

  • “Getaway” and “Last Chance” on New York Thrash (1982, ROIR)
  • “Onwards” on Son of Oi! (1983, Syndicate Records)
  • “Pyramids” on Something to Believe In (1983, BYO Records)
  • “Don’t Believe” (live) on Bang Zoom No. 3 (1983, Bang Zoom)
  • “Flossing With an E String” on Flipside Vinyl Fanzine (1984, Gasatanka Records)
  • “Juvenile Justice” on Enigma Variations (1985, Enigma Records)

Past members

  • Davy Gunner
  • Doug Holland
  • Don Cowan
  • Johnny Feedback
  • Christopher Smith

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