In the early 80’s, it was called Black Rock, and today is known as Afro-punk (following the setting up of the Afro-punk message board in 2002 leading to a full scale global brand and festival). LSFF looks at black identity in punk and rock at this night of film, discussion and live music.

BAD BRAINS LIVE AT CBGB’S 1982 (Richard Oretsky, 2006, 60 min)

Watch this blisteringly powerful live concert film of seminal hardcore band Bad Brains, from Washington DC at the height of their power.  The footage of this 1982 show at CBGBs gathered dust in a vault for 25 years before being edited into this breathtaking concert film, bringing their energy to a whole new generation.

The film will be followed by a panel discussion on black identity politics in music and the arts, with Pauline Black (Selecter), Debbie Smith (Echobelly, Curve, Snowpony) and Rachel Aggs (Shopping, Sacred Paws) hosted by Chardine Taylor Stone (activist, member of Big Joanie).

The event will culminate in a live set from Big Joanie, described as The Ronettes filtered through 80’s DIY and riot grrrl with a sprinkling of dashikis. http://bigjoanie.tumblr.com/

What goes best with punk? Beer, obviously. Every ticket holder gets a free beer, curtsey of Warsteiner. Prost!