D.O.A rocks Windsor

 

By: Joe Gibel

Canadian punk-rock group D.O.A made their return to Windsor.

The three-piece of hardcore pioneers show no sign of slowing down, even as they near their 40^th year of touring. Joe Keithley and the boys packed The Beer Exchange on Tuesday night. Blasting out classics like The Enemy, World War Three and F’ed Up Ronnie, now titled F’ed Up Donald, the songs did not leave the fans disappointed.

“There is a reason why D.O.A. comes up on the most influential bands in Canada. You’d never think a punk band would make that list. Not only have they written and continue to write songs that are timeless, but the live shows are full of energy,” said Matt Bishop, guitarist of The Reckless Upstarts. “Playing with guys who are going 40 years strong who still put on an awesome show is inspiring to say the least.”

Joe Keithley, now 61, is the original founding member of the band and has been playing since 1977. He has a lot to say through his music with politically-charged lyrics and is no stranger to the political game either, having run for The Green Party multiple times in British Columbia.

“It was a super fun show, especially for a Tuesday night. It was my 475^th show with the band and I am the new guy,” said Paddy Duddy, drummer for D.O.A.  “It was nearly Joe’s 4000^th show.”

With 16 albums already out, they are now writing songs for another album due to come out next year. It is expected that D.O.A will deliver new anthems against police brutality, racism, politicians and other social justice issues the same way they have been doing for 40 years.

“Agents and managers tell bands not to travel to Windsor because you will lose money,” said Bill Carter, long-time friend of D.O.A and show promoter. “Joe told the agent that he wanted to try again. He believed in me.”

D.O.A has a history of playing Windsor dating back to 1980 at the long-gone Coronation bar. Fans can only hope that they keep coming back for many years to come.