The Story of Crass

The Story of Crass

The history of the anarchist collective that made the Sex Pistols look like a boyband.

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HS.UK
Author: The London Archives
Filed: 2006-01-01

The Historical Context

While mainstream punk quickly became a fashion statement marketed by major labels, Crass lived the ideology. Operating from a commune in Essex, they sold hundreds of thousands of records entirely independently, pioneered the anarcho-punk movement, and engaged in direct political action that led to them being investigated by MI5 and debated in Parliament.

Deconstructing the Masterpiece

Here is exactly what you will find inside the pages of this pivotal work:

  • The absolute commitment to pacifism, feminism, and anarchism in practice.

  • The creation of a completely autonomous, independent music network.

  • The intense internal pressure of living up to impossible ideological standards.

The Myths & Controversies

Details the 'Thatchergate' tape—a brilliant hoax orchestrated by Crass that fooled the US State Department into believing Ronald Reagan and Margaret Thatcher were discussing nuclear war.

The Verdict

A vital document proving that music can, occasionally, actually threaten the establishment.

Archivist Notes: The Story of Crass

Absolutely. Written by George Berger, this book is considered a monumental piece of literature in the rock archive. It offers unfiltered access to the era and is a must-read for any serious collector.
HS

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