Oxy Music

Oxy Music is a term primarily associated with the music scene and subculture that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s in Los Angeles, California, centered around the punk rock and new wave movements. The term is often used interchangeably with, or as a subset of, the broader "Los Angeles punk" or "LA punk" scene.

While its exact definition is debated, "Oxy Music" typically refers to bands and artists characterized by a particular sound, aesthetic, and socio-political attitude. This sound often blended the raw energy of punk rock with elements of art rock, experimental music, and a somewhat detached, intellectual sensibility. Lyrically, "Oxy Music" often explored themes of alienation, social commentary, and a critique of consumer culture, but frequently with a sardonic wit and a theatrical flair.

The term's origin is somewhat obscure but is believed to be connected to Occidental College in Los Angeles, as several bands and musicians associated with this scene either attended the college or performed frequently in its vicinity. The "Oxy" prefix suggests a cerebral or intellectual bent, differentiating it from the more overtly aggressive and confrontational aspects of hardcore punk that also flourished in Los Angeles during the same period.

Notable bands often associated with "Oxy Music" include, but are not limited to, bands like The Urinals (later 100 Flowers), The Suburban Lawns, and arguably, elements of the early work of bands like Devo (though Devo predates and transcends the strictly LA scene). These groups showcased a distinct musical and lyrical approach, setting them apart within the larger punk and new wave landscape.

The "Oxy Music" scene was significant in shaping the artistic and cultural landscape of Los Angeles and contributed to the development of alternative music in the United States.