Guns Of Revolution

The song "Guns of Revolution" by Red Rockers from their album Condition Red is a fiery punk anthem that captures the raw energy of the band’s early days. Released in 1980 as part of a 45rpm EP on the New Orleans-based Vinyl Solution label, it was the label’s third release and became a cult hit among punk fans. The EP’s war-themed cover art sold out quickly, leading to subsequent pressings in plain white sleeves, with a rare third version featuring a band photo. Music critic Lester Bangs praised the song’s intensity, famously stating that Condition Red sounded like “they’ve been locked in a cupboard with the Clash’s first album for three years,” highlighting its raw, politically charged vibe reminiscent of The Clash. The song’s music video, directed by Joe Ohliger III, was filmed at Fort Point in San Francisco, adding a gritty visual to its rebellious spirit.

Another piece of trivia about "Guns of Revolution" is its connection to the punk scene’s DIY ethos. The EP’s success led to Red Rockers becoming a staple in New Orleans’ punk circuit, sharing stages with virtually every touring punk band in the early 1980s. The track was later re-recorded for the Condition Red album, released in 1981 by 415 Records, with a slightly polished sound but retaining its edge. In a 2023 interview, bassist Darren Hill shared that the band rediscovered missing master tapes for Condition Red in a garage, found by Johnny Colla of Huey Lewis & The News, allowing them to remaster the album and uncover a previously unreleased track. This rediscovery fueled the band’s excitement for their 2023 reunion, as they felt the song’s message still resonated.

Red Rockers began in 1979 in New Orleans, Louisiana, as a trio formed by John Thomas Griffith (vocals and rhythm guitar), James Singletary (lead guitar), and Darren Hill (bass). Initially performing under the punk pseudonyms “Stunn,” “James Jett,” and “Derwood” as The Rat Finks, they were heavily influenced by the political punk of The Clash and The Dils. The band embraced the DIY punk ethos, playing chaotic gigs and building a local following. After a brief reassessment, they adopted the name Red Rockers, added drummer Patrick Butler Jones, and dropped their pseudonyms to focus on a more serious punk sound. Their early shows were marked by high energy and political fervor, earning them the nickname “America’s Clash” in punk fanzines.

The band’s big break came with the release of the "Guns of Revolution" EP, which caught the attention of 415 Records in San Francisco. This led to their first full-length album, Condition Red, recorded at the renowned Automatt studio with guest vocals from Dead Kennedys’ Jello Biafra on their cover of “Folsom Prison Blues.” Their early tours, including opening for The Clash in 1982, solidified their reputation in the punk scene. Despite later shifting to a new wave sound with their 1983 hit “China,” the band’s punk roots, exemplified by "Guns of Revolution," remain a defining part of their legacy.

You can follow Red Rockers on their official Bandcamp page, which serves as their primary online hub. They are active on Facebook, sharing updates about their music and 2023 reunion. Their Instagram features nostalgic photos and recent posts about their remastered releases. On X, they engage with fans and share news about their ongoing projects. For fan communities, the Red Rockers Fans Facebook group is a lively space where Zoo Freaks and other devotees discuss the band’s music, share rare memorabilia, and celebrate their punk legacy.