LUX INTERIOR AND POISON IVY OF THE CRAMPS
I've long believed that part of the mystique and magic of music, and rock and roll in particular, is for an artist to have a great stage name. Popular music has a long tradition of artists giving themselves a performing name. Having the right stage name conveys a certain attitude which can make the difference between being lauded as a rock genius or just another weener with a silly haircut. The music might be fine music, but if Larry Arsehat is the front man, no-one is going to be able move past Larry.
The same goes for the band name. The much derided Nickelback cannot compete with The Clash for instance. I am at a loss as to what Nickelback even means. Perhaps it is some North American thing. The Clash though, was and is, the perfect name for a punk band from the 70's. Coming out of a depressed England with Thatcherism on the rise, The Clash spoke to a generation of young people in that country (and beyond). Instantly people could understand the ethos of the band because the name captured it all.
Here at The Peppermint Lounge the sound of words is important. And so it is fitting that our first great name is Lux Interior, the late singer and co-leader of psychobilly greats, The Cramps. For as long as I've had an awareness of The Cramps I've been fascinated with the name of the band's singer.
To me Lux Interior captured the band's aesthetic of trashy middle America and big gas guzzling cars with chrome fins, fake ivory steering wheels and faux leather upholstery. Lux is behind the wheel, Ivy is in the passenger seat, her hair flying, and there's probably a gun in the back seat and a body in the trunk.
So I give you our first great name in music: Lux Interior!
As an aside, it was recently pointed out to me that The Cramps recorded a live album in the 80's at none other than The Peppermint Lounge in New York. Lux Interior will therefore hold a special place in our hearts. Until next time - peace and love.
