David Thomas

American singer-songwriter, founding member and lead vocalist of Pere Ubu, known for experimental and avant-garde approaches to rock and a prolific solo and collaborative career.

Founder and lead singer of Pere Ubu; central figure in the Cleveland underground music scene; solo projects include David Thomas & the Pedestrians, David Thomas & the Wooden Birds, and collaborations such as Two Pale Boys. The compilation Monster collects early solo material (review notes a 1997 release of the compilation). Review also documents collaborations/associations with Richard Thompson, Chris Cutler, Lindsay Cooper, Garo Yellin, John Greaves, Anton Fier, Allen Ravenstine, and Tony Maimone.

The available review focuses on David Thomas's solo compilation Monster and traces his central role in Pere Ubu and the Cleveland scene. The reviewer frames Thomas as a monstrous, singular voice — a vocalist who mutters, chants and screams — and praises the adventurous, often divisive music. Monster (a 1997 compilation of early solo material) is presented as an apt title for these challenging works.

For:Fans of experimental/avant-garde rock, post-punk listeners, followers of Pere Ubu, and readers interested in the Cleveland underground scene.