Bankrupt

Bankrupt is a Hungarian punk rock band from Budapest, founded in 1996 by bassist/vocalist/lyricist Rocco and guitarist/vocalist William. Known for their melodic yet forceful brand of punk, Bankrupt incorporates elements of pop punk, surf rock, britpop, melodic hardcore, and punkabilly into their sound. Their lineup solidified when drummer Shorty joined in November 2000, setting the stage for the band’s prolific recording and touring career.

Early Beginnings (1996–2000)

Bankrupt originated with Rocco and William, who recruited Canadian singer Michael K for their initial performances. Michael K departed in 1999, prompting Rocco and William to share vocalist duties. A crucial turning point came in November 2000, when Shorty became the full-time drummer, giving Bankrupt a steady foundation for their live shows. By this point, the group had produced several demos and was drawing attention in Hungary and beyond.

First Releases and Growing Reputation

In 2000, Bankrupt released their debut album, Listen. This paved the way for more frequent concerts in Hungary and neighboring European countries, including Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, and Italy. Touring highlights included opening for British punk veterans the Toy Dolls in October 2004. Successive albums; Bad Hair Day (2004) and Shorter Than Danny DeVito (2006); as well as a series of EPs showcased the band’s catchy, high-energy approach and brought reviews from punk magazines across the globe.

Later Activity and International Recognition

Building on their momentum, Bankrupt has continued to release EPs (such as Rocket to Riot City, Razor Wires and Neon Lights, and Rewound) that garnered radio airplay on MR2 Petőfi and rotation on MTV Hungary. They also contributed tracks to Cleopatra Records’ seasonal compilations Punk Rock Christmas and Punk Rock Halloween – Loud, Fast & Scary. In 2019, the band released “Come Back Joe Strummer” as a digital single, further underlining their punk roots and influence.

Recent Notable Release

In July 2021, Bankrupt premiered the single “Pekingi nyár” (and its English counterpart, “The Plane to Toronto”) to raise awareness and support for their former singer, Michael Kovrig (formerly Michael K), who was detained in China. Proceeds from the song benefited Hostage International, highlighting the band’s commitment to activism and solidarity.

Musical Style and Influences

Bankrupt’s musical identity blends classic, first-wave punk with modern pop punk elements. Their lyrics often balance social or political critique with humor. They credit the Ramones, The Clash, the Buzzcocks, The Stranglers, the Descendents, NOFX, and The Dwarves among their main influences, resulting in a sound that is both hard-hitting and melodically accessible.

Band Members

• Rocco – Bass, Vocals, Lyrics
• William – Guitar, Vocals
• Shorty – Drums

Former Members

• Michael K – Vocals (1996–1999)
• Various Drummers (Pre-2000)

Discography

• Listen (2000)
• Bad Hair Day (2004)
• Shorter Than Danny DeVito (2006)
• Rocket to Riot City (2008)
• Razor Wires and Neon Lights (2009)
• Rewound (2011)
• Goodbye Blue Monday (2013)
• Outsiders (2016)
• Kívülállók (2016)
• Trolls in Suits (2020)