THE SONICS

Every time I hear some "music journalist" write about how "punk rock originated in England and New York City in the mid-70's" I break out in a fit of uncontrollable laughter.
For the last time: NO good music ever originated in England or New York City.
...And certainly NOT in the 1970's!
Get it straight.
So, next time someone starts telling you about the Brits "inventing punk rock in '77", kindly refer them to Link Wray.
Once they get over their embarassment, play them a few songs by the Sonics.
The Sonics recorded their first LP "Here Are The Sonics" in the summer of 1964.
It is most likely the greatest punk rock album of all time, unless you want to argue that their '66 follow-up "BOOM" is the champ. I say it's a tie.
With ingredients like Gerry Roslie's larynx-shredding vocals, Larry Parypa's caveman guitar, and Bob Bennett's superhuman drum pounding, the Sonics make the Sex Pistols and the Ramones sound like Lawrence Welk!
The Sonics recorded some primal originals like "Cinderella", "The Witch", "Psycho", "Boss Hoss" and "He's waiting", along with a cover of "Louie Louie" that must be heard to be believed and some viciously amped-up takes on Little Richard, Chuck Berry, and Ray Charles.

Remember: real punk rock isn't about dyed hair or safety pins...leave that to the poseurs that pass for "punk rock" today.

Listen to the Sonics deliver their 1966 punk rock hit "He's Waiting"