Ever been curious about the stories behind band tattoos? We sat down with the members of the iconic punk band Perfect Pussy to uncover the meanings and inspirations behind their personal ink. Forget shyly wondering – we’ve got the inside scoop straight from the band themselves! Before they rocked Boston on Wednesday, August 27th, 2014, alongside noise-pop sensations Joanna Gruesome and local favorites Potty Mouth at The Sinclair, Perfect Pussy took a moment to share some of their most meaningful tattoos with Allston Pudding. Get ready to dive into the world of band member tattoos and the personal stories they tell.
Garrett Koloski (Drummer): Marilyn Manson and Embracing Individuality
Garrett, the drummer for Perfect Pussy, started his tattoo journey at 20 with a classic tribute. “So I got my first tattoo when I was 20, which was mom and dad above my knees,” he shared. However, his next piece took a turn towards embracing personal identity. After a two-year gap, Garrett felt the pull to permanently mark himself with something truly resonant: a Marilyn Manson tattoo. “And then I didn’t get another tattoo for about 2yrs, I figured I didn’t like anything else enough to get it permanently on my body… And then it hit me, holy shit I need a Marilyn Manson tattoo! So I got the cover of antichrist superstar tattooed on thigh.”
For Garrett, the Marilyn Manson “Antichrist Superstar” cover wasn’t just about shock value. It was a symbol of self-acceptance during formative years. “Sure Marilyn Manson might represent some mall goth kids hanging out at hot topic… But to me it represented being comfortable with being yourself. And when I was a mixed up 14yr old that’s exactly what I needed. Looking back I’m proud of being myself in a time when being yourself, especially when you’re a ‘weirdo’ is difficult.” Even though his musical tastes have evolved, the meaning behind the tattoo remains powerful. “Sure I don’t really listen to Marilyn Manson now, or know any of his newer records… But holy shit that band meant the world to me for a few critical years as a young adult!” Garrett’s tattoo story is a testament to how body art can capture pivotal moments and personal growth.
Ray McAndrew (Guitarist): “Rest in Pizza” and Tattoo Regrets
Ray, the guitarist, offers a more humorous and perhaps relatable perspective on band tattoos and tattoo choices. His second tattoo, acquired at 19, embodies a carefree life motto. “This was my second tattoo, I got it when I was 19. ‘Rest in pizza’ was one of three life mottos I lived by and I thought it was the goofiest one so I had my friend Zoe Burnett draw me up an idea I had to turn it into a tattoo.” The “Rest in Pizza” tattoo, a playful take on “Rest in Peace,” reflects a lighthearted approach to life – and perhaps impulsive youth. Ray humorously admits to a pattern of second-guessing his ink decisions. “I’m pretty sure I’ve only gotten tattoos that I’ve ended up regretting.” This candid confession adds a touch of levity to the world of band tattoos, reminding us that not all tattoos need to be deeply serious or meticulously planned.
Greg Ambler (Bassist): The Unconventional “Bloody Tampon” Tattoo Art
Greg, the bassist, shares a story behind a truly unique and intentionally provocative piece of tattoo art. His “Bloody Tampon with Yellow and Purple Sunburst” tattoo is not your typical band tattoo, but it perfectly aligns with the band’s boundary-pushing image.
“Bloody Tampon with Yellow and Purple Sunburst”
Artist: Jemola Addley (Resurrected Tattoo; Syracuse, NY)
Greg was 22 when he got this striking piece, having previously only sported a small wrist tattoo. He explains the unexpected origin of this bold choice: “I was 22 and only had one tiny tattoo on my wrist. I always thought most ink was too traditional for me and remained untouched. When a friend of mine brought me with him to get a touch up done Jemola showed us the drawing that was intended for a person in the shop with a certain distaste for natural bodily functions and stated that it would go to the first willing victim.” Greg’s appreciation for unconventional art and his personality led him to embrace this design. “Seeing as how I had never come across such a piece of art I thought it was fitting for my personality along with my love and respect for the enduring opposite gender.”
Even his mother gets a mention in the story of this memorable tattoo. “I sometimes joke with my mother saying that one day I will get the word “MOM” incorporated into it.” Greg’s tattoo is a conversation starter, a piece of unconventional art, and a testament to embracing the unexpected in band tattoos and personal expression.
More Than Just Ink: Band Tattoos as Personal Stories
Perfect Pussy’s tattoos offer a glimpse into the individual personalities and experiences of the band members. From Garrett’s journey of self-discovery through a Marilyn Manson tattoo, to Ray’s humorous “Rest in Pizza” and Greg’s deliberately shocking “Bloody Tampon,” each tattoo tells a story. These band tattoos are more than just ink; they are personal narratives etched onto skin, reflecting moments, beliefs, and the unique spirit of Perfect Pussy. Like their music, their tattoos are bold, honest, and undeniably memorable.
Note: Perfect Pussy and Joanna Gruesome performed at the Sinclair on August 27th, 2014. They were also set to release a comic book/split 7″ in the fall on Slumberland/Fortuna Pop/Captured Tracks.
