RANCID Biography - Theater, Opera and Movie personalities

 
 

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RANCID
       

Drawing an enormous influence from the Clash, the Bay Area quartet Rancid followed the lead of fellow latter-day punks Green Day and the Offspring to mainstream success. The group was led by singer/guitarist Tim Armstrong, a lifelong hardcore fan who first found underground success teamed with childhood friend and bassist Matt Freeman in the late-’80s ska-punk band Operation Ivy. After becoming fixtures at the legendary Gilman Street club, Op Ivy released a series of singles before issuing their debut LP Energy in 1989. Unable to deal with their growing popularity, however, the group disbanded shortly after the album’s release, and Armstrong and Freeman briefly reteamed in the Dance Hall Crashers.

       

Freeman later served a stint in the band MDC, while Armstrong recorded with a series of other groups. Both were working a string of day jobs when Armstrong fell prey to alcoholism; Freeman helped him to get sober, and as part of his recovery they founded Rancid in 1991 with Gilman Street staple Brett Reed on drums. The trio issued their five-song debut in 1992, followed in 1993 by a self-titled full-length release on the prominent indie label Epitaph. After the addition of second guitarist Lars Frederiksen, formerly a member of the UK Subs, Rancid recorded its 1994 breakthrough album Let’s Go, which sold close to a million copies on the strength of the single and video “Salvation.”

       

A major bidding war followed, but the band remained with Epitaph for 1995’s …And Out Come the Wolves, which featured the hits “Time Bomb” and “Ruby Soho.” Life Won’t Wait followed in 1998 Brett Reed- Brett, like most drummers, does not recieve the credit he deserves. He adds a vital part to Rancid by keeping a beat easy to follow and fun to listen to. His role could not be filled by anyone else without drastically changing the success of Rancid’s music.

       

Matt Freeman- Matt, in my opinion, is the best bass player to ever play. His harmonizing riffs give Rancid a wonderful background, and completely change the feel of the music. He was also part of Operation Ivy and his talents are obvious even in his early years. He was one of the original members of Rancid, and helped build the foundation that Rancid offers in the world of music. Rancid would not be the same without him.

       

Lars Fredrickson- Lars was the last member to join Rancid. He wasn’t actually part of the band until days before the first record was recorded. Before Rancid, Lars played guitar in a band called U.K. Subs. Since joining Rancid, his guitar skills have improved, as well as his writing abilities. He also became close friends with Tim, and helped Tim kick his bad habits. Lars plays a vital role in Rancid, as a musician, and a friend.

       

Tim Armstrong- Tim is the mastermind behind the powerful lyrics. He started his musical career in a band called Operation Ivy, but after three years of music, the band found it hard to continue. Tim was caught up in drinking and drug use and needed to get his life back together. Along with Matt, he formed Rancid, and many of his problems where solved. He has been put into the spotlight of the band, mainly because of his 12-inch mohawks and stylish dress. But dont be fooled by his looks, he is a great musician and knows how to make beautiful music.