The Unlikely Reign of a Punk Rock Politician
It’s not every day you hear a punk rock icon like Duff McKagan of Guns N’ Roses comparing a band to the colossal stature of Led Zeppelin, but that’s precisely the kind of reverence D.O.A. commands in the new documentary, Something Better Change. Personally, I think this is a testament to the sheer, unadulterated impact punk music, and specifically D.O.A., had on a generation of musicians who went on to define rock and roll. The idea that a band from Vancouver could feel as massive and influential as Zeppelin in the eyes of someone like McKagan speaks volumes about the raw power and accessibility of their sound.
What makes this particular narrative so compelling, in my opinion, is the duality of Joey “Shithead” Keithley. He’s not just a legendary frontman who could, as Circle Jerks’ Keith Morris vividly recalls, “level the Starwood” with his band’s sheer ferocity. He’s also a dedicated city councillor in Burnaby, British Columbia, a role he’s held since 2018. This film, directed by Scott Crawford, dives deep into this fascinating juxtaposition, exploring how the spirit of activism that fueled D.O.A.’s music has translated into his political career. It’s a powerful reminder that the urgency and passion of punk aren't confined to the stage; they can, and often do, spill over into real-world change.
From my perspective, the endorsements from such a diverse group of musicians – Ian MacKaye, Henry Rollins, Jello Biafra, Dave Grohl, and McKagan and Morris – underscore a shared experience. They all seem to connect with the genuine, unvarnished energy that D.O.A. brought to the table. McKagan’s recollection of seeing D.O.A. at just 13, feeling eight feet away from their power, is particularly striking. It highlights how formative those early encounters with authentic, high-energy music can be, shaping not just musical tastes but also a broader worldview. This wasn't just noise; it was a revelation of possibilities, a spark that ignited a passion for creating and for questioning.
What many people don't realize is the enduring legacy of bands like D.O.A. They weren't just about rebellion for rebellion's sake. They were about community, about speaking truth to power, and about believing in the possibility of a better world. The film’s release, coinciding with a new D.O.A. compilation and Keithley’s upcoming reelection campaign, feels perfectly timed. It’s a celebration of a life lived on multiple stages, proving that the fight for something better can take many forms. If you take a step back and think about it, it’s a profound statement on how artistic expression and civic duty can intertwine, creating a powerful force for change that resonates far beyond the mosh pit.
