The Mentors

The Mentors were one of the pioneers of the underground shock rock movement that would open the door for artists like G.G. Allin and the Dwarves in the '80s. Known for their crude production and filthy lyrics, they were a popular target of parent groups throughout their original incarnation. Celebrated by musicians like Anthrax, Ministry, and Faith No More, they became a cult favorite, developing a dedicated fan base that appreciated their tactics. They first started in 1976, when the three original members attended Roosevelt High School together in Seattle, WA. Guitarist Sickie Wifebeater (aka Eric Carlson), bassist Heathen Scum (aka Steve Broy), and singer/drummer El Duce (aka Eldon Hoke) became fast friends and started to play a primitive version of heavy metal that was influenced by the punk ideals coming out of the underground at the time. They came up with the gimmick of wearing black executioner hoods in concert, and started writing songs with offensive lyrics dealing with sexual topics. They played the Northwest, developing their sound and crafting a public image that was more-than-a-little degenerate. The band decided to move to Los Angeles after playing their native Washington for a while, bringing their roadies with and sharing a one bedroom apartment in Hollywood. They played the Los Angeles music scene for three years, further crafting their image and getting much better publicity in the populated entertainment center. They got a record contract through Mystic Records, and by 1982 they had their first EP, The Trash Bag. The following year they released Live at the Whiskey/Cathey de Grande, a combination of two live performances. It was around this time where they were first noticed by the media, leading to their first television appearances. El Duce...