Bankrupt (band)

Did You Know?

• The band's lyrics use an ironic approach and address social and political issues as well as lighter subjects.
• Their main influences include the Ramones, The Clash, the Buzzcocks, The Stranglers, the Descendents, NOFX, and The Dwarves.
• Former singer Michael K's stage name references Kafka's novel The Trial.

History

The band was formed in March 1996 in Budapest by Rocco and William. The original lineup included Canadian expatriate singer Michael K and drummer Black Peter. Drummer Shorty joined in November 2000 following a series of drummers. The band gained momentum after Shorty's arrival, playing more frequently in Hungary and neighboring countries such as Austria, the Czech Republic, Germany, Croatia, Slovenia, Italy, Serbia, and Slovakia. Touring highlights included supporting the Toy Dolls at a sold-out Budapest show in October 2004 and several festival appearances. Their second album, Bad Hair Day, was released in December 2004, followed by Shorter Than Danny DeVito in August 2006. Subsequent CD-EPs include Rocket To Riot City (2008), Razor Wires And Neon Lights (2009), and Rewound (2011). The band contributed tracks to Cleopatra Records compilations Punk Rock Halloween (2017) and Punk Rock Christmas (2015). Their digital-only single "Come Back Joe Strummer" came out on August 14, 2019. On July 15, 2021, they released "Pekingi nyár" and its English version "The Plane To Toronto" to protest the detention of former singer Michael Kovrig, with proceeds donated to Hostage International.