Formed in 1974, New York City's The Dictators is one of the finest and most influential proto-punk bands to walk the earth. Originally formed as an homage/response to the MC5, Flamin Groovies, New York Dolls and the Stooges, the Dictators wound up playing a similarly crucial and inspirational role to the generations that followed them. In 1991 the original Dictators reformed (with drummer Frank Funaro, later replaced by Wild Kingdom skinsman J.P. "Thunderbolt" Patterson) and set out on tour, something they have done with increasing dedication, geographic reach and consistency ever since. "Viva Dictators", showcases 15 proto-punk classics (plus an additional bonus track recorded at sound check), by one of the best live bands on the planet. This is pop punk for grownups, with worldly lyrics that may leave younger listeners in the cultural dark. Wisely, the Dictators do not pretend to be anything they're not, but that doesn't keep them from being both contemporary and true to their legacy.[see full story for more] - Click here for the Full Story

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