The Dream Syndicate’s Medicine Show: A Blend of Southern Gothic and Hardboiled Crime
John Armstrong, also known as Buck Cherry of the Modernettes, shares similarities with Steve Wynn of the Dream Syndicate in his songwriting style.
As Armstrong notes, "I’m just writing stories." He draws parallels between his work and Wynn's, particularly in the 1984 album Medicine Show.
I wanted to be the Robert Mitchum of punk rock; Steve Wynn wanted to be the Raymond Chandler of punk rock.
This comparison highlights the influence of southern gothic, hardboiled crime, and murder ballads on their music.
Author's summary: The Dream Syndicate's Medicine Show inspires punk rock songwriting.