The Effigies

Members: Paul Zamost - Bass; Steve Economou - Drums; Andy Gerber - Guitar; Geoff Sabin - Vocals Established Date: 1980

Chicago, IL

Punk pioneers whose founding members were John Kezdy, Earl “Oil” Letiecq, Paul Zamost, and Steve Economou.

Chicago’s the Effigies were a seminal force in the Midwest punk scene, known for their characteristic angry yet artful musings on urban alienation. The group formed in 1980, releasing four full-length records and several EPs over the course of their on-and-off history, all while touring with the likes of Black Flag, the Dead Kennedys, Naked Raygun (which featured lead singer John Kezdy’s brother Pierre) and even pre-fame Green Day.  The band consisted primarily of lead singer John Kezdy, bassist Paul Zamost, and drummer Steve Economou, with rotating guitarists.  The late, great producer Steve Albini sang their praises, “Effigies were the first great band from Chicago’s scene, his [John’s] stern, declamatory style influenced a generation, and he helped me in material ways. Not overstating to say that without John and the Effigies, I would never have made any records.” — The Effigies, 2024.