New Books in Popular Culture Sahan Jayasuriya, "Don't Say Please: The Oral History of Die Kreuzen" (Feral House, 2025)
Sep 26, 2025
Sahan Jayasuriya, a Milwaukee-based author and music writer, dives deep into the fascinating world of 1980s hardcore with his new book, exploring the legendary band Die Kreuzen. He shares stories from his decade of interviews, revealing how Milwaukee's scene shaped the band's groundbreaking sound that defied genre boundaries. Jayasuriya discusses the band's DIY touring life, the significance of their album art, and the voices of peers and fans featured in his oral history. He also reflects on Die Kreuzen's lasting legacy and influence in underground music.
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Discovery In A Record Shop
- Sahan first heard Die Kreuzen at a record store where his boss played their Cows and Beer 7-inch and it immediately stopped him in his tracks.
- He recognized the band as local Milwaukee figures who came into the shop, which deepened his curiosity and eventual long-term project.
A Decade-Long Labor
- Sahan started the book project in 2015 and spent almost his entire 30s working on it.
- He treated the 2012 partial reunion as an opportunity to write an early piece that led to the longer book project.
Timing Meets Technology
- Streaming and wider digital access have made obscure regional bands like Die Kreuzen discoverable to new audiences.
- Sahan argues now is a better time for a book because listeners can immediately find and stream the band's music.
