As previously reported, Joe Keithley (longtime leader/singer/guitarist of Canadian punkers, DOA) will be releasing his latest book tomorrow (June 1st), titled Talk - Action = 0. Also recently released are reissues of DOA's classic early releases, Something Better Change and Hardcore 81 (for more info about both the book and the releases, go to www.suddendeath.com).
Mr. Keithley was kind enough to answer some questions recently for the Short-But-Sweet Interview.
UGO: What can readers expect from the new book, Talk - Action = 0?
JOE KEITHLEY: It's full of action, activism, and thrills. It covers the 33 year plus history of D.O.A, by combining posters, photos, memorabilia, tour schedules, album and single covers and t shirts. The book is glued together by the text that goes along with each image, that explains all of D.O.A.'s troubles with cops, border guards, and rip-off record companies. The book is jam packed with cool and funny shit.
UGO: How kick ass are the 2 DOA reissues, Something Better Change and Hardcore 81?
JOE KEITHLEY: As kick ass as they were when they came out. I'm pretty happy with them as both of these albums have stood the test of time. We have included reproductions of the original poster, lyric sheet, and photo book that came with the original LPs. The CD version each have extensive 12-page booklets full of photo and posters.
UGO: Do you still feel that "Disco Sucks"?
JOE KEITHLEY: I think the song as really aimed at the brain dead mentality of the "disco goers" of that time. Musically I find some of the songs quite amusing.
UGO: At the 3:38 mark of this interview between Duff McKagan and the great Nardwuar, Mr. McKagan praises DOA. Does hearing these kind words make your toes tingle?
JOE KEITHLEY: I have not seen the comments, but I know Duff is a fan. He is a cool guy who has not forgotten his roots.
UGO: Do you think many of the newer punk bands of today wouldn't have been able to endure what bands such as DOA and Black Flag had to during the late '70s and early '80s?
JOE KEITHLEY: Perhaps not, but I don't like to generalize on that subject. If these bands were put back in time, so to speak, the resilient ones would find a way to get it done. Creative people always do.
UGO: What do you prefer more - thicker/heartier Canadian beer or more watery/smoother US beer?
JOE KEITHLEY: In the old days we always thought American beer sucked and a lot of it still does. These days there are a lot of good micro brews. The one thing I don't get is when kids want to give me a beer and they hand me a Pabst, it's like water.
UGO: Which was the better hockey team in the '80s and why, the New York Islanders or the Edmonton Oilers?
JOE KEITHLEY: Well the Islanders were tougher and dirtier, but the Oilers were easily more talented. The Islanders won four cups and the Oilers won five, so I guess that's your answer. Personally I am not fond of either.
