Thee Mighty Caesars

Thee Mighty Caesars were a primitive garage punk group, formed by Billy Childish in 1985 after the demise of The Milkshakes. They influenced many American bands, especially The Mummies, and Sub Pop groups. They were arguably the group that brought about the resurgence of garage rock.

Just one of garage punk poet Billy Childish's many bands, Thee Mighty Caesars differ little from Childish's standard output -- energetic, inspired, raw, amateurish garage punk rock & roll with a reluctance to sacrifice spontaneous expression for self-editing. After stints in The Pop Rivits and Thee Milkshakes, Childish briefly worked with the Delmonas in 1984, but then formed Thee Mighty Caesars with Milkshakes' John Agnew (bass) and Bruce Brand (drums). Between 1985 and 1990, Thee Mighty Caesars released nine albums (many of which are now out of print), one EP, and two compilations. After their self-titled debut, drummer Brand left and was replaced by ex-Prisoners Graham Day; in 1986, the Caesars added Sarah (Delmonas) and Fay (Makin' Time; organ, vocals) for Acropolis Now. This lineup held until 1990, when Agnew chose to spend his time as a soundman for the James Taylor Quartet. Graham Day resumed work with the Prime Movers, while Childish concentrated on side projects and a new band, Thee Headcoats.