The Dead Milkmen: The Big Lizard turned 35

Yo Ho, WeRCatz here!

Before obtaining my driver’s license, I would sit in the passenger’s seat and pick out some music to play from the radio. One particular day, I listened to the DJ talking about how The Dead Milkmen’s famous song “Bitchin’ Camaro” would be played for the last time in its entirety before the radio station went professional with their new owner. Ah, how time flies…

At 35 years, The Dead Milkmen’s first album Big Lizard in My Backyard is one of punk rock’s great achievements. Fast, comical, and providing a counter to the likes of surfer music and rich people. Let’s look at only a few pieces of this album.

“Beach Song” is a simple song of someone HATING going to the beach for some valid reasons: the sand, the people, the girlfriend soaking in the sun, and losing ice cream to a shark. No fun here.

“Swordfish” is a “philosophical” take on life. Why believe in anything when you can believe in swordfish?

“V.F.W. (Veterans of a Fucked up World)” is an attempt to become an anthem against the status quo.

“Lucky” tells three tales of gruesome deaths and that one would like to die like that. However, that depends on luck and usually luck is never kind.

“Bitchin’ Camaro” is the breakout song of the album. Fast, fun, and on point, “Bitchin’ Camaro” pokes fun at the rich, The Doors, and how a Camaro can be awesome if you’re connected. Great song.

You can hear the whole album everywhere if you want, but be warned! Some songs have lyrics that may be deemed as offensive by today’s standards. They serve a point at poking fun at certain topics and people but the language used may not be appropriate for most audiences.

Big Lizard in My Backyard has 21 tracks of punk rock and what would turn into comedy rock. The Dead Milkmen still perform today with “Bitchin’ Camaro” as a live staple in their concerts.