The Mummies

The Mummies

The Mummies are a garage punk group from San Mateo, United States, active since 1988. They are associated with garage rock, punk rock and lo-fi, and are linked to the garage rock, garage punk, punk and rock n roll scenes.

Formation and early activity

The band plays with influences from surf rock, 1950s and 1960s garage rock groups such as The Sonics, and more contemporary garage punk acts such as Thee Mighty Caesars. Their first show takes place at the Chi Chi club in San Francisco in December 1988.

Style and image

The Mummies are known for performing in matching mummy costumes and for an outspoken stage attitude. They also build much of their image around low-budget methods and a deliberately rough approach to recording and equipment.

Recording and releases

For many years they release music only on vinyl, before also issuing CDs in the 2000s. Their recordings are made at home in the pre-digital era, with the band mixing everything live and using no computers or dubbing.

Equipment and touring

The band uses equipment bought largely from thrift shops. They also tour California in a vintage 1950s ambulance converted into a band vehicle, the same model as the Ghostbusters car. They are also known for taking items from clubs that do not pay them or treat them well.