Los Angeles in the late 1970s and early 1980s was a breeding ground for punk rock. A new sound was emerging. It was loud, fast, and rebellious. Photographer Ann Summa was there to capture it all. Her photos offer a raw, inside look. They document this exciting time in music history.
Summa’s recently released photos show the energy and attitude of the LA punk scene. Many of these photos have never been seen before. They were part of her personal collection. They are a valuable record of a cultural movement. The images show the bands, the fans, and the atmosphere of the clubs.
The LA punk scene was different from other punk scenes. It developed its own unique style. It was a reaction against the mainstream music of the time. Bands were playing in small, crowded clubs. These included places like The Masque and the Whisky a Go Go. The energy at these shows was intense.
The photos also show the fashion of the time. Punk fashion was a statement of rebellion. People wore ripped clothing. They had spiky hair. They used safety pins as accessories. It was a way to express their individuality. They rejected mainstream fashion trends.
