John Kezdy, vocalist of influential Chicago punks The Effigies, was tragically killed during a biking collision last year, but before his unexpected death, he had been working with The Effigies on their first album in 17 years. That album, titled Burned, has since been finished up and it’s out today via BFD/The Orchard. In addition to being the band’s final release with John, it also features original members Paul Zamost (bass) and Steve Economou (drums), alongside new guitarists Andy Gerber and Keith Shigeta, the former of whom also produced the album.
In an interview with Chicago Reader, Zamost said, “I’m at a point in my life now where I can do this full-time. I can commit 100 percent. I’ve never really been able to do that in the last 25 years. That’s the sad part. John retired—we had great plans about where we’re gonna take this and what we’re gonna do with it. It’s his best work, and he’s not here for it.” Give the new LP a listen below.
The Effigies have also announced a hometown album release show that doubles as a memorial tribute to John, happening on December 20 at Metro with fellow Chicago punk vets The Bollweevils, newer Chicago band Ganser, and Metro owner Joe Shanahan DJing. Vocal duties for The Effigies will be handled by Geoff Sabin, who worked closely with John on vocals during the recording of The Effigies’ 2007 album Reside. Tickets are on sale now.
Lastly, The Effigies are putting out a remixed and remastered version of their classic 1984 debut LP For Ever Grounded for its 40th anniversary on November 22 via BFD/The Orchard. Pre-orders are up now.