D.O.A. - Smash The State: The Raw Original DOA 1978-81 is a gritty and powerful documentary that takes an in-depth look at the pioneering punk band, D.O.A. Directed by David Gracon, the film offers a comprehensive overview of the band's early years, showcasing their rise to fame as one of the most important and influential punk acts of the late 70s and early 80s.
The documentary is structured in a chronological manner, beginning with the genesis of D.O.A. in the late 70s. Gracon uses rare archival footage, interviews with band members and those who were part of the punk movement that D.O.A. was a part of. Through these interviews, we get a sense of the band's ethos and the social, political, and economic climate that shaped their sound and message.
The documentary is not just a celebration of D.O.A.'s music, but also an exploration of their politics. The band was known for its anarchist leanings, and their music often tackled issues related to poverty, war, and environmentalism. The film highlights how D.O.A. was a product of the times; they emerged at a time of intense political upheaval, as many people were disillusioned with the mainstream political establishment and looking for an alternative.
One of the film's strengths is its focus on the band's live performances. Gracon includes footage from key shows and festivals, such as the legendary 1980 Rock Against Racism concert, to convey the sheer energy and power of D.O.A.'s music. The live performances serve as a reminder of why the band was so important to the punk scene: they had a raw, aggressive sound that was unlike anything else on the scene.
Gracon also does an excellent job of highlighting the impact that D.O.A. had on other musicians and the punk movement more broadly. The band's influence can still be heard in the music of contemporary punk acts like Anti-Flag and Dropkick Murphys. The documentary features interviews with a range of artists, from Henry Rollins to Jello Biafra, who praise D.O.A. for their innovation and influence.
While the documentary is a celebration of D.O.A.'s music and politics, it also takes a more critical approach at times. For example, it delves into the band's internal conflicts and the challenges they faced as they tried to balance their anarchic politics with the demands of the music industry. At times, the film paints a picture of a band that was torn between their desire to remain true to their political ideals and their need to make a living as musicians.
Overall, D.O.A. - Smash The State: The Raw Original DOA 1978-81 is a powerful and insightful documentary that provides a fascinating look at one of the most important and influential punk bands of all time. The film showcases the energy and passion that made D.O.A. so groundbreaking, while also providing a deeper understanding of the political and social context that helped shape their music. Whether you're a die-hard punk fan or simply interested in the history of music, this documentary is well worth a watch.
