Punk rock fans have something new to dive into with the release of No Escape From What You Are, a star-studded tribute album honoring D.O.A., one of punk’s most important and influential bands. Released on October 25th through Sudden Death Records, this collection features 14 punk and hardcore heavyweights covering classic D.O.A. songs. The album is available in black, cherry red, smash, and splatter vinyl, as well as CD and digital formats, appealing to both collectors and new listeners.
The idea for this tribute began last winter when Joey “Shithead” Keithley, D.O.A.’s legendary frontman, suggested getting their punk rock friends together to record covers of the band’s music. The response was immediate and enthusiastic, resulting in a diverse set of renditions. Featuring bands like Rancid, Descendents, Circle Jerks, and Voivod, No Escape From What You Are showcases how deeply D.O.A.’s music has influenced generations of punk musicians. This tribute spans styles and decades, uniting classic and contemporary acts under the common banner of punk’s raw spirit.
The tracklist bursts with energy. Highlights include Rancid’s cover of “Waiting For You,” Circle Jerks’ rendition of “The Enemy,” and Propagandhi’s version of “Fuck You,” each reimagined with the covering band’s unique edge. Descendents deliver a punchy take on “Get Out of My Life,” while Dead Kennedys bring their chaotic style to “Smash the State.” Each track celebrates D.O.A.’s relentless energy and unfiltered voice that has echoed across punk scenes since the late 1970s.
Formed in 1978, D.O.A. rose out of suburban Canada to become trailblazers of the hardcore movement. They were among the first bands to embrace a DIY approach, launching their own record label, Sudden Death Records, to release their music when traditional deals fell short. Their early EP Disco Sucks gained underground acclaim and marked the beginning of their punk legacy. By 1980, Keithley had coined the term “hardcore” to describe the music that defined their classic album Hardcore 81. This release sparked a new wave in punk, influencing bands like Green Day, Nirvana, and Offspring, and was recognized by the CBC Polaris Prize as one of Canada’s greatest albums of all time.
D.O.A.’s impact goes beyond music. Over their 47-year career, they have performed over 4,500 shows in 50 countries and have used their platform for activism. Keithley himself has been deeply involved in organizing benefit shows and protests for causes ranging from environmental protection to anti-racism. He continued this mission into politics, becoming a city councilor in Burnaby, Canada, in 2018 as a member of the Green Party. His journey in both music and politics was documented by filmmaker Scott Crawford, showcasing Keithley’s unique blend of activism and punk ethos.
No Escape From What You Are reinforces D.O.A.’s legacy, proving that their music still resonates with both longtime fans and new generations. With contributions from punk icons and modern voices, this tribute album stands as a testament to the enduring influence of D.O.A.’s music and message. It’s a celebration of a band that never wavered in speaking truth to power and maintaining a raw, unfiltered punk attitude.
