King Missile is an eclectic American alternative rock band that gained a cult following in the late 1980s and early 1990s. Formed in New York City in 1986 by poet and frontman John S. Hall, the group is renowned for its fusion of absurdist humor, spoken-word poetry, and avant-garde rock. Their style is a mix of post-punk, art rock, and experimental sounds that defy easy categorization. The band's shifting lineup has often revolved around Hall, with frequent collaborators like guitarist Dave Rick, bassist Chris Xefos, and drummer Roger Murdock contributing heavily to their distinctive sound.
King Missile's most widely known achievement came with the 1992 surprise MTV hit "Detachable Penis," from their third album, "Happy Hour." Their discography, however, spans a variety of ventures, encapsulated in albums such as "Mystical Shit/Fluting on the Hump," which showcases their penchant for pairing bizarre, stream-of-consciousness spoken word pieces with idiosyncratic musical backdrops. The album "The Way to Salvation," released in 1991, offered a more rock-oriented approach, while "They" continued the band's experimental legacy. The "King Missile (Remastered)" release allowed old and new audiences alike to revisit the band's earlier work with improved sound quality, ensuring their idiosyncratic take on alternative music continues to resonate. King Missile's unique approach to songwriting—characterized by wittiness, satirical humor, and Dadaist influences—has left an indelible mark on the alternative music scene, positioning them as a unique voice in an era of broad musical exploration.
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