Thomas and Katherine Detre Library and Archives Treasures: Exploring Pittsburgh's Punk Past

Abstract

The initial punk rock explosion of the mid-1970s, centered in London and New York City, set off musical conflagrations across the United States. In Pittsburgh, The Cardboards, The Five, and Carsickness were among the early punk bands that emerged. Without interest from major record labels, large venues, or corporate radio stations, punk bands embraced a do-it-yourself ethos to record music and organize events. Posters and flyers for upcoming shows became important communication tools. Quickly made and easily reproduced, posters relayed essential information—who, when, where, and how much—and could be hung on a telephone pole at short notice.

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