Joe Young, guitarist and founder of punk-rock band Antiseen, died of as-yet-unknown causes at the age of 54 on April 30.
The band was formed in 1983, taking its name from a play on words of “anti-scene.” Their music also became known as “destructo rock,” due to the violent nature of their live shows, which were strongly influenced by professional wrestling.
Antiseen played its 25th anniversary show in 2008, in the group’s hometown of Charlotte, North Carolina. Original drummer Greg Clayton and original bassist Doug Canipe said their goodbyes to the band, which welcomed Phil Keller and John Bowman aboard as new members.
Young was not only interested in music, but also in politics. He ran as a Libertarian for state house in 2000 and for a city council seat in 2001.
Punk legends The Meatmen paid tribute to Young on Facebook after his death, writing, “To say [Young] created a signature sound 30 years ago would be an understatement. That buzz saw wall of grind trademark axe will forever be etched in the cranium of anyone who was a fan of Antiseen’s countless platters and live shows.”
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