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“And when you die, you’ll become something worse than that—you’ll become a legend.”
—Mike Patton
Legends are often thought of as people remembered for having fully embraced and embodied their calling, whose actions have been significant and enduring, who did something different or better than the rest, who pioneered and blazed new trails for future generations, whose values and talents intersected, and who, regardless of others’ opinions, made an impression—whether positive or negative—during their existence.
And above all, you’re a true legend when you’re indifferent to that very legend status. In that spirit:
Welcome back, RKL!
You read that right: It’s 2024, and the legendary Rich Kids On LSD from Santa Barbara have just announced their reunion and—no joke!—a tour for March 2025.
The hardcore punk rock band, cherished by fans across various phases of its history, last played together on European stages in 1996, and they were far superior to most contemporary Epitaph and FAT bands right up to the final chord.
RKL’s performance, approach, and technique were so much more brilliant, distinctive, unique, and aggressive, but that was often overshadowed by various tragedies, excesses, deaths, and a hefty dose of attitude involving sweat, blood, and vomit on stages around the globe.
The Rich Kids didn’t quite fit into the clean-cut, polished West Coast punk rock cliché of the '90s, which was typically scandal-free and less dangerous. RKL had cut their teeth since 1982, through all the highs and lows, and were more aligned with the old guard, like Circle Jerks, Descendents, or Black Flag. And their approach was similarly old-school, but increasingly impressive in its execution.
In the beginning, their style was kind of skate punk, but rougher. It was hardcore, but more intricate. It evolved. It packed a punch and didn’t shy away from hard rock and metal influences. And it was still melodic and anthemic, even if the vocals were more spat than sung.
Then as now, the band cared little for their status in the scene. It was always about maximum fun, destruction, and delivering live while giving the middle finger every night.
So why reunite now?
“We’re doing it because we love this music, we miss playing it, and we want to honor the legacy of Bomber and Jason,” says guitarist Chris Rest. He is of course referring to multi-instrumentalist and original member Anthony “Bomber” Manzullo, who played drums (and bass, at times) for RKL and wrote most of their classic tunes, and Jason Sears, legendary vocalist and live performer, whose lurid lyrics captured the imagination of multiple generations of punks.
RKL is back with 4/5ths of the classic Riches To Rags lineup: Chris Rest on guitar; Barry Ward on the other guitar; Lil Joe Raposo on bass; and Dave Raun on drums. Joining them on vocals is longtime friend and consummate frontman Abe Brennan, who sang for the bands My Name and Wretch Like Me and currently plays guitar in Dead Pioneers.
RKL was never a band destined for a stadium career. The Rich Kids have always been club kids, and money was never the motivation to shred until the ambulance arrived. RKL simply remains a band that’s into their shit, serious about playing, and looking forward to a good time with old (and likely new) fans.
They became legends for a reason. And you remain a legend by bringing the same playing spirit, crazy performance, and gritty attitude.
Ah, what a beautiful feeling! A legend remains a legend. And how wonderful that RKL still don’t give a damn. Thank you.
Ingo Donot
