Altar Boys

Altar Boys, a pioneering Christian punk rock band, burst onto the scene in the early 1980s and left a significant mark on the Christian music landscape. Formed in Southern California, the band was comprised of Mike Stand, Jeff Crandall, and Steve Pannier, with Mark Robertson joining later. Known for their energetic and rebellious sound, the Altar Boys became trailblazers in the genre, infusing punk rock with Christian lyrics that spoke to the youth culture of the time. Their breakthrough album, "When You're a Rebel," released in 1985, was a punk revelation, featuring tracks like "Difference In Me" and "Jesus is Number One," setting a precedent for the intersection of punk music and Christian messages.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, the Altar Boys continued to evolve, experimenting with their sound and releasing albums such as "Against the Grain" and "Gut Level Music." Their impact extended beyond music, influencing the Christian punk movement and paving the way for future bands exploring the fusion of faith and punk rock. The Altar Boys' legacy remains significant, as their spirited rebellion against musical norms coupled with a steadfast Christian message continues to resonate with fans of punk and Christian music alike.