Chris D., whose birth name is Chris Desjardins, is a multifaceted individual with a profound enthusiasm for various creative endeavors. He is a poet with a penchant for the punk genre, a rock critic with a keen ear for sonic innovation, a singer with a powerful voice, a writer with a way with words, an actor with a talent for bringing characters to life, and a filmmaker with a passion for storytelling. Notably, Chris D. is most widely recognized for his role as the lead singer and founder of the influential early Los Angeles punk/deathrock band The Flesh Eaters, a group that has made a lasting impact on the music world.
In the year 1977, Desjardins embarked on a new chapter in his life by joining the esteemed publication Slash magazine as a feature writer, thereby fostering a creative synergy with his close associates from the vibrant Los Angeles punk scene, including the multifaceted Tito Larriva.
This pivotal moment marked the commencement of Desjardins' musical journey, as he and his friends collectively coalesced to form a band, thus setting the stage for a remarkable career in the music industry. The band's debut album, titled "A Minute to Pray, A Second to Die", was subsequently released in 1981, boasting an impressive array of talented musicians, including the renowned John Doe, the skilled DJ Bonebrake, the accomplished Dave Alvin, the accomplished Bill Bateman, and the versatile Steve Berlin.
As the years went by, The Flesh Eaters persisted in their musical endeavors, releasing not one, but two more albums that would solidify their reputation as a force to be reckoned with in the world of punk rock.
The first of these albums, "Forever Came Today", emerged in 1982 and marked a significant turning point in the band's history. With the addition of new members, including guitarist Don Kirk, bassist Robyn Jameson, drummer Chris Wahl, and vocalist Chris D., the band's sound underwent a subtle yet profound transformation.
Chris D.'s distinctive vocals, accompanied by occasional backing harmonies courtesy of Jill Jordan, brought a new level of depth and emotion to the band's music. The result was an album that was both a departure from their earlier work and a natural progression of their unique sound.
Not to be outdone, the band's next album, "A Hard Road to Follow", would follow in 1983. Building upon the momentum generated by "Forever Came Today", this album saw the band continuing to evolve and refine their craft.
With the same lineup that had come together for their previous album, The Flesh Eaters delivered a collection of songs that were both raw and refined, featuring the kind of catchy hooks and memorable melodies that would come to define their later work.
Through it all, the band's commitment to their art remained unwavering, as they continued to push the boundaries of what was possible in punk rock. And as they looked to the future, it was clear that The Flesh Eaters were an act to be reckoned with, a band that would leave an indelible mark on the world of music.
Chris D.'s illustrious career has been marked by a remarkable ability to adapt and excel in a wide range of roles, showcasing his unwavering commitment to his craft and leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
