Jaz Coleman - Killing Joke

Killing Joke

In 1978 he founded Killing Joke with drummer Paul Ferguson in Notting Hill, London with whom he recruited guitarist Geordie Walker and bassist Martin Glover (aka Youth). The group released its first single in October 1979 and their first eponymous album was released in 1980. Coleman contributed lead vocals and keyboards to the bands' songs, and thanks to his stage persona and Walker's guitar sound and playing, the group soon became pioneers of a post-punk heavy guitar sound that has inspired industrial rock and metal genres. Known for controversial political and social opinions, the events of Coleman's public life are intertwined with his colourful association with Killing Joke. He is known for his aggressive and powerful stage presence, and sense of ritualistic pageantry in movement and dress. Whilst his stage voice is a particularly harsh growl (which has become more aggressive over the years), albums such as Brighter Than a Thousand Suns, Night Time and Outside The Gate proved he could also sing impressively in a standard rock/pop manner. He remains active in both recording and touring with the band.