One of the most intense debates of the late 20th Century still rages on into this millennium. Most likely, neither side will concede and we will forever ponder the question, “Is Punk dead?” While there are convincing arguments on both sides, it is undeniable that there are shining examples that show, in some circles, the genre is still alive and well. A notable one is San Jose’s Joe Q Citizen.
Dover, the Q Citzen’s leader and vocalist, is not afraid to belt out a gruff and ready tune anytime the occasion presents itself. His band mates, Packer, Jewels and Rob have been in countless bands, and on countless tours. Dover has brought his gospel to Europe and Japan under the banners of Whiskey Sunday and The Saturday Saints.
“I started this band because I wasn’t quite punk enough anymore to do Whiskey Sunday, and just a little too punk to keep doing the Saturday Saints,” Dover says. “No, just kidding. I think that Joe Q is in between those styles somehow, though.”
Dover’s voice sounds like a velveteen brillo-pad, it’s raspy yet smooth in a way that makes his often humorous and thoughtful lyrics fun to listen to. The music has all the drive of well-crafted punk rock, with an attention to detail that comes with decades of dedicated work.
With Rob on bass, Packer on lead guitar and Jewels on drums, Dover has a team of excellent musicians to help him along. Joe Q Citizen’s last album, “With No Due Respect,” is a collection of music that is both tongue-in-cheek and fist-in-the-air. “Chilifinger” is a hilarious look at the finger found in the cup of chili at Wendy’s in downtown San Jose. “Low Serotonin” is a masterfully crafted piece of music that is a perfect complement to The Ramones, “I Wanna be Sedated.”
Punk’s not dead. it may have just have grown up a little bit.
.Local look: Joe Q Citizen
