Dmz
DMZ were a punk rock and garage rock band from Boston, Massachusetts. Strongly influenced by 1960s garage rock, the group became known for their high-energy performances and their short but notable run in the late 1970s. Although they only released one full-length album, their members went on to form or join other important Boston-area bands.
Background
The band took shape in early 1976 when Jeff Conolly, also known as Mono Mann, out-sang the original vocalist at a rehearsal and secured the position. Conolly brought not only his distinctive vocals but also keyboards and original material, giving DMZ its defining edge. With his presence, the group began carving out a place in Boston’s underground scene.
Recording Years
In April 1977, DMZ entered the studio with producer Craig Leon, known for his work on the Ramones’ debut. Four songs from the session were released on a 7-inch EP through Bomp! Records. This caught attention within punk circles and eventually led to the band signing with Sire Records. In 1978, they released their self-titled debut album, produced by Flo & Eddie. However, the record failed to make much commercial impact, and by the end of that year, DMZ splintered.
After the Split
Following the breakup, guitarists J. J. Rassler and Preston Wayne went on to form The Odds, while Conolly, bassist Rick Coraccio, and drummer Paul Murphy created the band Lyres. DMZ did reunite periodically, including a notable 1993 performance captured on Live at the Rat, which also included tracks from a 1976 show.
Connections and Side Projects
Many of the band’s members went on to further influence rock and punk music. Early drummer David Robinson joined the Cars after leaving DMZ. Bassist Mike Lewis later played with Lyres and recorded with the A-Bones and Yo La Tengo. Guitarist Peter Greenberg joined Lyres and later co-founded Barrence Whitfield and the Savages, continuing DMZ’s influence into new projects.
Members
Core Members
- Jeff Conolly – vocals, keyboards
- Rick Coraccio – bass guitar
- Peter Greenberg – lead guitar
- Jack Hickey – guitar
- Mike “Drums” Lewis – drums
- Paul Murphy – drums
- J. J. Rassler – guitar
- Preston Wayne – guitar
Other Members
- Mike Lewis – bass guitar
- David Robinson – drums
- Adam Schwartz – lead singer
- John Smith (Bernardo) – drums
