The Effigies

The Effigies are a punk group from Chicago. The band played its first show in 1980 and was active for approximately a decade, undergoing multiple personnel changes with frontman John Kezdy the only constant, before disbanding in 1990 [1].
The Effigies: From Punk to Post-Punk
When it comes to punk bands that emerged from Chicago’s music scene in the late 70s, The Effigies rightfully deserve a place among the greats. Their music is a mix of punk and post-punk, with a style that hits hard and leaves a lasting impression. This article is all about The Effigies, their musical biography, genre, and their best songs. We’ll also be discussing their famous concerts and a critic weighing in on their impact on the music scene.
The Effigies started in 1980 and made a significant impact in the Chicago punk scene with their blend of aggressive punk rock and innovative post-punk sounds. They consisted of singer/guitarist John Kezdy, drummer Steve Economou, bassist Paul Zamost, and guitarist Earl Letiecq. They released their first 7 record in 1981 and soon became a staple in Chicago’s punk scene.
Their music was heavily influenced by punk legends like The Stooges, The Clash, and The Sex Pistols. But The Effigies also brought their own unique twist to the genre with their sound. They experimented with various post-punk elements like angular guitar riffs, odd time signatures, and unconventional melodies. This sonic experiment eventually led them to be recognized as one of the pioneers of post-punk music.
The Effigies’ music is intense, fast-paced, and filled with sharp and angular riffs that hit like lightning. Their best-known albums like For Ever Grounded and Ink showcase their signature style and sound. The song Body Bag from their album Ink is a punk classic that showcases the band’s knack for unrelenting delivery.
The Effigies were known for their live performances, and their concerts were a raw and explosive experience. They played with an intensity that was unmatched, and the crowd was always left in awe. One of their most famous concerts was an opening gig for U2 in 1983 on their War tour. It was a significant gig for The Effigies, and it put them on the national music map.
Critics have praised The Effigies for their groundbreaking style and influence on post-punk music. In an interview, writer and critic Jim DeRogatis had this to say about the band: ...they had a hugely important impact on the scene and started a movement that’s been massively influential... in many ways, they’re the fathers of the whole indie-rock movement that happened in the '80s.
The Effigies were one of the best punk and post-punk bands to come out of Chicago’s music scene. Their music was a mix of various styles, and they pushed the boundaries of punk to create their unique sound. Their concerts were full of energy and were a spectacle for all who witnessed them. Finally, their influences on post-punk music and the music scene in general are still being felt today, and they will always be remembered as a pioneer in the genre.