Drunk Tank (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1989 |
| Defunct | 1992 |
| Headquarters | Chicago, Illinois , United States |
Key people | Alex Barker, Lou Ciccotelli, Julian Mills, Steven Cerio |
| Products | Music albums, EPs, singles |
Drunk Tank was a noise rock ensemble originating from Chicago, Illinois, active between 1989 and 1992. Although their career was short-lived, their output was met with positive critical reception. Drummer Lou Ciccotelli, who played early on, later became known for his work with groups such as God, Laika, and Ice.
History
Established in 1989 by guitarist Alex Barker, drummer Lou Ciccotelli, and vocalist/bassist Julian Mills, Drunk Tank issued their first single Leadfoot/Scissors in September, with production handled by Steve Albini of Big Black fame. The release was described by Maximumrocknroll as "intense, loud post-hardcore." Their second single, Hayride With Mary Worth, followed in December and also featured Albini's production. After moving to New York City, the band replaced Ciccotelli with graphic artist Steven Cerio, as Ciccotelli relocated to London to collaborate with Kevin Martin.
The band's self-titled full-length album arrived in 1991 and drew stylistic comparisons to The Jesus Lizard, Rapeman, and King Snake Roost. In 1991, they supported Hole at Maxwell's in Hoboken and opened for The Ex at CBGB in 1992. Their growing acclaim suggested potential major label interest; they toured London and headlined a sold-out performance at the Borderline club. In August 1992, Drunk Tank recorded four tracks for John Peel’s BBC Radio 1 Peel Sessions. The Missing EP was recorded in November 1992 but was released only after the group had disbanded, appearing in 1995.
Following the breakup, Julian Mills went on to form Dirty Old Man River in 1996, while Steven Cerio focused on projects including Sonisk Blodbad.
Discography
- Albums
- Drunk Tank (Radial, 1991)
- EPs
- Missing (Radial, 1995)
- Singles
- Leadfoot/Scissors (Radial, 1989)
- Hayride With Mary Worth (Radial, 1989)
- Compilation appearances
- Mesomorph Enduros (Big Cat, 1992)