The Gruesomes
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1985 |
| Headquarters | Montreal, Quebec , Canada |
| Products | Garage punk music albums and singles |
The Gruesomes are a garage punk group originating from Montreal, Quebec, Canada, established in 1985.
Their initial album, Tyrants of Teen Trash (released by Og Music in 1986), garnered them underground acclaim throughout Europe, the United States, and Canada. Later records broadened their audience, and following extensive tours, they became a recognized name within the international garage music community.
History
Although none had formal musical training, Bobby Beaton (guitar, vocals), Gerry Alvarez (guitar, vocals), John Davis (bass), and Eric Davis (drums) started collaborating as teenagers. Drawing inspiration from rare mid-1960s records and late-night television shows, they developed a unique look characterized by coordinated black turtlenecks, Beatle boots, and bowl cuts, combined with a rebellious punk attitude. Their early performances prioritized spirited energy and humor over technical proficiency, quickly earning a devoted following in local venues.
Og records
Within twelve months, the Gruesomes recorded their first LP under Montreal’s independent label Og Records. The 1986 release of Tyrants of Teen Trash achieved strong sales across European and North American territories and frequently led Canadian alternative radio charts. Their subsequent albums, Gruesomania (1987) and Hey! (1988), reinforced their position as one of Canada’s leading underground acts.
Live shows
Famed for their dynamic live shows, the Gruesomes toured extensively throughout Canada and the US, building a reputation for memorable performances. Their irreverent approach mixed comedy with playful antics, notably during Halloween concerts featuring theatrical horror elements like coffins and Dracula costumes. In 1987, after releasing Gruesomania, drummer Eric Davis was replaced by Ottawa native John Knoll, which contributed to a tougher, more refined garage punk sound.
Music videos
The band produced two music videos: "Way Down Below" in 1987 and the Monkees-inspired "Hey!" in 1988. Both videos enjoyed significant airplay on Canada's MuchMusic channel.
Dissolution
In 1990, the group decided to part ways, feeling they had achieved the maximum success attainable within the underground music scene.
Reformation
The Gruesomes reunited in late 1999 to release Cave-In!, featuring 14 tracks on CD in Canada and a 12" vinyl edition in Germany. Responding to fan enthusiasm, their supporting tour included stops in Germany, Italy, Switzerland, and Belgium.
Since then, the band has appeared at festivals such as Cavestomp in New York City (2000), The Funtastic Dracula Carnival in Spain (2017), Wild O'Fest in Mexico City (2018), and the Spider Monkey Festival in Costa Rica (2019). They continue to perform internationally.
Singles and EPs
- "Jack The Ripper" (1986) (Primitive Records)
- reissued by Fuzz Overdose Records in 2009
- "Unchained!" (1987) (Primitive Records)
- "Someone Told A Lie/Make Up Your Mind" (2020) (Calico Wally)
- "Not A Chance/Girl In Time" (2024) (Calico Wally)
Albums
- Tyrants of Teen Trash (1986) (Og Music)
- reissued by Ricochet Sound in 2008
- reissued by Groovie Records in 2012
- Gruesomania (1987) (Og Music)
- reissued by Ricochet Sound in 2008
- Hey! (1988) (Og Music)
- reissued by Ricochet Sound in 2009
- Cave-in!! (2000) (Tyrant Records)
- released through Jaguar Club Records
- reissued by Ricochet Sound in 2007
- Gruesomology 1985-89 (2003) (Sundazed Music)
- Live in Hell (2007) (Ricochet Sound)
- The Dimension of Fear (2025) (Soundflat Records)
Compilations and Individual Works
- Gruesomology 1985-89 (2003) released by Sundazed Records
- Fuad and The Feztones - In the Valley of the Kings (7"/EP) (2002) under Ricochet Sound
- Gerry Alvarez Odyssey - Candy Prankster (2006) via Ricochet Sound
- Fuad & the Feztones - Beeramid (2008) distributed by Ricochet Sound
- Gerry Alvarez Odyssey - Omega Tea Time (2010) produced by Ricochet Sound
Videos
- Way Down Below
- Hey!