New Books Network Sahan Jayasuriya, "Don't Say Please: The Oral History of Die Kreuzen" (Feral House, 2025)
Sep 26, 2025
Sahan Jayasuriya is the author of 'Don't Say Please: The Oral History of Die Kreuzen,' which delves into the legendary Milwaukee band that reshaped the 1980s hardcore scene. He shares how he uncovered Die Kreuzen's story through a passion for music and the unique Midwest sound. The conversation touches on the band's genre-defying influence, eclectic inspirations, and the significance of their album art. Jayasuriya discusses the band's relentless touring, their DIY spirit, and the legacy they left on alternative music.
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Local Discovery Sparked A Decade Of Research
- Sahan discovered Die Kreuzen via a record-store boss and was shocked by their tight, aggressive sound that defied his hardcore timeline.
- Their local presence and surprise that they were from Wisconsin motivated him to research and eventually write the book.
Reunion Shows Led To The Book Proposal
- Partial reunion shows in 2012 reignited interest and led Sahan to write a short piece that grew into the book project.
- Band members later invited him to expand the work into a full oral history.
Midwest Conditions Shaped A Unique Sound
- Midwest distance and cold climate encouraged bands to practice indoors and develop distinct sounds separate from coasts.
- Die Kreuzen filtered diverse influences like glam and prog through hardcore, producing a unique regional voice.
