Chicago punk royalty Naked Raygun and their late bassist, Pierre Kezdy, continue to resonate through a powerful tribute album titled "Godspeed… A Tribute to Pierre Kezdy," slated for a July 28 release via Put It Here Productions and Big Minnow Records. This collective endeavor features Naked Raygun covers by an impressive lineup including Hot Water Music, Face To Face, Swingin’ Utters, J. Robbins (Jawbox), Josh Caterer (Smoking Popes), The Bollweevils, The Methadones, Pegboy (a band where Pierre was also a member), and more.
The inaugural song off the LP, J. Robbins' cover of "Got Hurt," pays homage to Naked Raygun's early days, a hidden gem from their "Basement Screams" era. Robbins, an esteemed figure in the punk scene, reflects on the band's profound influence on his own musical journey. His rendition, as he describes, is a reinterpretation that honors the original's essence while breathing new life into the track.
This heartfelt tribute extends beyond musical homage. All proceeds from this album will directly support Pierre Kezdy's family, an impactful gesture honoring the bassist's indelible contribution to punk rock. Kezdy's legacy, etched in the annals of punk music, continues to inspire and reverberate through the spirit of this tribute project.
Joining forces with iconic bands and artists, this album commemorates not just Naked Raygun's groundbreaking influence but also the camaraderie and admiration shared within the punk community. It stands as a testament to the enduring impact of Pierre Kezdy and Naked Raygun's timeless punk ethos.
The album release date, July 28, marks an opportunity to celebrate Kezdy's enduring legacy while contributing to a cause close to the hearts of punk enthusiasts worldwide. "Godspeed… A Tribute to Pierre Kezdy" promises an emotionally charged and sonically vibrant commemoration of punk rock greatness.