Destroy All Monsters

The Profile

Destroy All Monsters are an American art‑punk/noise group formed in Ann Arbor in 1973 by art students Mike Kelley, Jim Shaw, Cary Loren, and Niagara. A later lineup with Ron Asheton (The Stooges) and Michael Davis (MC5) pushed a harder, garage‑scarred sound and issued a string of influential singles including Bored.

Formed 1973 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, by Mike Kelley, Jim Shaw, Cary Loren, and Niagara; later featured Ron Asheton (The Stooges) and Michael Davis (MC5). Known for abrasive art‑punk/noise singles such as “Bored,” “You’re Gonna Die,” “Nov. 22,” and “Meet the Creeper.” Active primarily 1973–1985; key singles compiled by Cherry Red.

A vivid chronicle of Destroy All Monsters’ shift from art-jazz roots to a hard, art‑punk/noise attack after Ron Asheton and Michael Davis joined. It spotlights the Cherry Red singles, with “Bored” praised as the standout. The review recalls gigs with Ramones, Devo, and Pere Ubu, and notes the band never cut a full studio album.