**Broken Bones (band)**
**Definition:**
Broken Bones is a British punk rock band formed in 1983, known for their aggressive blend of hardcore punk and heavy metal influences. Emerging from the UK punk scene, they have been influential in the development of crossover thrash and continue to maintain a dedicated following.
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# Broken Bones (band)
## Introduction
Broken Bones is a British punk rock band that originated in Newcastle upon Tyne, England, in 1983. Founded by Tony „Bones” Roberts, formerly of the seminal punk band Discharge, Broken Bones quickly established themselves as a significant force in the hardcore punk and crossover thrash scenes. Their music is characterized by fast tempos, aggressive guitar riffs, and socially conscious lyrics, blending the raw energy of punk with the intensity of metal. Over the decades, Broken Bones have released numerous albums and EPs, influencing a generation of punk and metal musicians.
## History
### Formation and Early Years (1983–1985)
Broken Bones was formed in 1983 by guitarist Tony „Bones” Roberts after his departure from Discharge, a band widely credited with pioneering the D-beat style of hardcore punk. Seeking to explore a heavier and more metal-influenced sound, Roberts assembled a lineup that included his brother, drummer Paul „Oddy” Hoddy, and bassist Nick „Nobby” Dobson. The band’s name was inspired by the aggressive and uncompromising nature of their music.
Their debut release, the EP *I.O.U.* (1983), showcased their raw, fast-paced style and was well received in the underground punk community. This was followed by their first full-length album, *Dem Bones* (1984), which further solidified their reputation. The album featured a mix of hardcore punk and thrash metal elements, a fusion that would come to be known as crossover thrash.
### Rise in Popularity and Musical Style (1985–1990)
Throughout the mid-1980s, Broken Bones toured extensively across the UK and Europe, sharing stages with other prominent punk and metal acts. Their energetic live performances and relentless touring helped them build a loyal fan base. The band released several EPs and singles during this period, including *F.O.A.D.* (1985) and *See Through My Eyes* (1986), which continued to develop their sound.
Musically, Broken Bones stood out for their ability to merge the speed and aggression of hardcore punk with the technicality and heaviness of thrash metal. This crossover appeal allowed them to reach audiences in both punk and metal circles. Their lyrics often addressed social and political issues, reflecting the punk ethos of rebellion and critique.
### Lineup Changes and Later Releases (1990–2000)
The 1990s saw several lineup changes for Broken Bones, with Tony Roberts remaining the constant member. Despite these changes, the band continued to record and perform, releasing albums such as *Losing Control* (1990) and *Without Conscience* (1993). These releases maintained the band’s signature sound while incorporating more contemporary metal influences.
During this decade, Broken Bones faced challenges common to many punk bands, including shifts in the music industry and changing audience tastes. Nevertheless, they retained a dedicated following and continued to influence emerging bands in the hardcore and crossover thrash genres.
### Reunion and Recent Activity (2000–Present)
Broken Bones experienced a resurgence in the 2000s, with renewed interest in their early work and the crossover thrash genre. The band reformed with various lineups and released new material, including *Time for Anger, Not Justice* (2012) and *Dead & Gone* (2018). These albums demonstrated the band’s commitment to their roots while incorporating modern production techniques.
The band has continued to tour internationally, performing at punk and metal festivals and maintaining their reputation as a powerful live act. Broken Bones’ enduring influence is evident in the continued popularity of crossover thrash and the respect they command among musicians and fans alike.
## Musical Style and Influences
Broken Bones is primarily known for their fusion of hardcore punk and thrash metal, a style often referred to as crossover thrash. Their music features fast, aggressive guitar riffs, pounding drums, and shouted vocals. The band’s sound is marked by its raw energy and intensity, combining the simplicity and directness of punk with the complexity and heaviness of metal.
Influences on Broken Bones include early punk bands such as Discharge (from which Tony Roberts originated), The Exploited, and GBH, as well as thrash metal acts like Metallica and Slayer. The band’s lyrical themes often focus on social injustice, political corruption, and personal struggle, reflecting the punk tradition of activism and dissent.
## Legacy and Impact
Broken Bones is regarded as a pioneering band in the crossover thrash genre, bridging the gap between punk and metal scenes in the 1980s. Their aggressive style and DIY ethic have inspired numerous bands in both genres. The band’s early releases, particularly *Dem Bones* and *I.O.U.*, are considered classics of hardcore punk and have been influential in shaping the sound of subsequent punk and metal acts.
Despite never achieving mainstream commercial success, Broken Bones has maintained a cult following and critical respect. Their longevity and continued activity demonstrate their importance in the punk and metal communities. The band’s influence can be seen in the work of later crossover thrash bands and in the ongoing popularity of the D-beat and hardcore punk styles.
## Band Members
### Current Members
– Tony „Bones” Roberts – guitar, vocals (1983–present)
– Paul „Oddy” Hoddy – drums (1983–present)
– Additional touring and session musicians have contributed over the years.
### Former Members
– Nick „Nobby” Dobson – bass (1983–1986)
– Other members have included various bassists and vocalists during different periods.
## Discography
### Studio Albums
– *Dem Bones* (1984)
– *Losing Control* (1990)
– *Without Conscience* (1993)
– *Time for Anger, Not Justice* (2012)
– *Dead & Gone* (2018)
### EPs and Singles
– *I.O.U.* (1983)
– *F.O.A.D.* (1985)
– *See Through My Eyes* (1986)
– Various other singles and compilation appearances.
## Conclusion
Broken Bones remains a significant and influential band within the punk and metal communities. Their pioneering crossover thrash sound and commitment to socially conscious lyrics have earned them a lasting place in the history of underground music. With a career spanning over four decades, Broken Bones continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans.
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**Meta Description:**
Broken Bones is a British punk rock band formed in 1983, known for pioneering the crossover thrash genre by blending hardcore punk and metal. They have maintained a dedicated following through decades of influential releases and energetic live performances.