They set about practicing and playing wherever and whenever they could, and seizing every opportunity to broaden their horizons by playing out of town (i.e. Minneapolis, Chicago, Madison, Indianapolis). Their name was chosen specifically to avoid stereotyping, because "no one knows what it means". -- Keith Brammer "The band's name is broken German for "the crosses" and was from a German Bible." -- Brian Egeness
Their first recorded output was two songs on Noise magazine's Charred Remains cassette compilation, followed by three on The Master Tape compilation LP. This and the ensuing press in Milwaukee and especially elsewhere led to the release in late 1982 of a 7" on the Version Sound label, entitled Cows & Beer, the title being "an in-joke on peoples' preconceptions of life in Wisconsin". This proceeded to sell out two pressings of 1,000 apiece, and is incidentally a much sought-after collector's item, prompting them to undertake their first tour of the South and West Coast in the summer of 1983.
Upon returning, they were greeted with the news that Touch and Go Records wanted to release an album, which for various reasons did not appear until July 1984. This 21-song self-titled LP then proceeded to sell upwards of 13,000 copies in the U.S. and Europe, and is still selling today. The release was followed by two years of repeatedly touring the States and Canada and gradually, through word of mouth and press of all sorts, spreading their name everywhere.
Gradually their songs were changing, their sound evolving and maturing. This was exhibited on their second LP for Touch and Go Records, October File, released in May 1986. Two more years of slow but steady songwriting and touring, helped along by positive critical response resulted in the release, in July 1988, of their third Touch and Go Records album, Century Days.
Progress, variety and melody are the key words here, adventurous songwriting accented by diverse production and outside help from horns without losing the band's trademark drive and excitement. Attractive packaging, multiple formats (11 song LP, 12 song cassette, 13 song CD), international distribution and increased airplay helped Century Days do very well.
After more extensive touring and various side projects, the band flirted with some new record labels but eventually released their fourth LP for Touch and Go Records in 1991, Cement. Of course, the band resumed touring in support of their new album.
On April 1, 1992, Die Kreuzen disbanded amid much conflict when guitarist Brian Egeness decided to pursue other interests. "He had different things to do, a different agenda." Keith Brammer said.
Official Websites
Official MySpace Page
Official Page at Touch and Go Records
"Counting Cracks" The Die Kreuzen Online Archive Site
Brian Egeness' Official website
Brian Egeness on IMDB
Decapitado Official Website
No Name
Die Kreuzen Lyrics
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No brains
No Hope
The lyrics to Die Kreuzen's song No Name express a sense of detachment and nihilism towards society and the expectation to conform to certain social roles and identities. The repeated phrase "We'll have no names" suggests a rejection of the idea that individuals are defined by their name and encourages a distancing from labels and identity markers. This rejection of labels is further reinforced by the subsequent lines "No brains, no hope" which strips individuals of intellectual and aspirational capabilities, leaving only a sense of emptiness.
The phrasing of these lyrics could also showcase a sense of anger and frustration towards societal expectations and the pressure to fit into predetermined roles. The song's lyrics reflect a disenchantment with society and a desire to break free from the shackles of social norms and hierarchies. The overall tone of the song is one of defiance, as the lyrics suggest that the band refuses to conform to expectations and rejects the notion that individuals are defined by their social status or labels.
Overall, the lyrics to No Name reflect the rebellious and anti-establishment attitude that is often associated with punk rock music.
Line by Line Meaning
We'll have no names
We will not associate ourselves with any labels or identities, as they may limit our freedom and individuality.
No brains
We will not conform to societal expectations or indoctrination, but strive to think for ourselves and challenge norms.
No hope
We reject the notion that success and happiness depend on conforming to societal standards, and instead embrace our own unique paths and goals.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
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claes ljngholm
As good as it gets. Oh my god.
MrSoulspeed
yep, still love you guys :)