Aus-Rotten
Aus-Rotten was a politically charged crust punk band from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Formed in 1992 and active until 2001, the band became a defining force of the ’90s anarcho-punk renaissance. Known for their raw sound, radical lyrical content, and anti-fascist stance, Aus-Rotten influenced countless punk bands and movements worldwide.
Origins and Musical Evolution
Aus-Rotten was founded in 1992 with members Dave Trenga (vocals), Eric Good (guitar/vocals), Corey Lyons (bass), and Matt Garabedian (drums). The band name, derived from the German word “ausrotten,” meaning “to exterminate” or “eradicate,” reflected their uncompromising approach to social and political issues. Drawing inspiration from Black Flag, Conflict, Crass, and Subhumans, the band’s early style was bass-heavy hardcore punk with lo-fi production. Over time, Aus-Rotten evolved, adopting a thicker sound with the addition of Adrienne Droogas (ex-Spitboy) as a second vocalist in their later work.
Lyrics and Themes
Aus-Rotten’s music tackled anarchist and leftist political themes with an unrelenting intensity. Their songs addressed topics such as consumerism, LGBTQ+ rights, feminism, AIDS, immigration, direct action, and animal rights. Memorable lyrics like “People are not expendable, government is” and “As long as flags fly above us, no one’s really free” cemented their place as one of the most outspoken bands in the punk scene.
The band was particularly noted for its strong anti-fascist stance, which occasionally brought threats from far-right groups. Despite these challenges, they remained steadfast in their commitment to activism through music.
Influence and Legacy
During their decade-long career, Aus-Rotten made a significant impact on the punk and DIY scenes. Their 1994 Fuck Nazi Sympathy EP sold over 25,000 copies, becoming the best-selling release on Havoc Records and outselling other notable DIY punk labels. The band’s influence extended internationally, with a brief tour in Japan in 1998 and a dedicated fanbase worldwide.
After their initial breakup in 2001, band members went on to form influential projects such as Caustic Christ and Behind Enemy Lines. Pittsburgh City Paper later described Aus-Rotten as “arguably the most important band of the ’90s anarcho-punk renaissance.”
In August 2019, Aus-Rotten reunited for a surprise performance at Skull Fest 11 in Pittsburgh, reigniting interest in their discography and legacy.
Discography
Studio Albums
- The System Works For Them (1996)
- …And Now Back to Our Programming (1998)
- The Rotten Agenda (2001)
EPs
- Anti-Imperialist (1993)
- Fuck Nazi Sympathy (1994)
Splits and Compilations
- Aus-Rotten / Naked Aggression (1994)
- Not One Single Fucking Hit Discography (1997)
- Featured on Iron City Punk Compilation, Start A Riot, and Solidarity Compilation
Members
Final Lineup
- Dave Trenga – Vocals
- Eric Good – Guitar, Vocals
- Corey Lyons – Bass
- Matt Garabedian – Drums
- Adrienne Droogas (ex-Spitboy) – Vocals
Former Members
- Ajax – Guitar
- Richie Carramadre – Drums
- Douglas Weaver – Drums
- Tim Williams – Drums
- Dan Monaco – Drums
Legacy in the Punk Scene
Aus-Rotten’s unapologetic stance on global issues and powerful DIY ethic made them a cornerstone of ’90s anarcho-punk. Their fearless lyrics and aggressive sound continue to inspire punk bands and activists, keeping their message relevant for new generations.
Trivia
- The band’s name comes from the German word “ausrotten,” meaning “exterminate.”
- Their iconic Fuck Nazi Sympathy EP sold 25,000 copies, setting records for independent punk releases.
- Adrienne Droogas of Spitboy joined as a vocalist during their later years.
- Members of Aus-Rotten went on to form Caustic Christ and Behind Enemy Lines after the band’s breakup.
- They reunited briefly in 2019 for Skull Fest 11, performing a surprise set in Pittsburgh.
