Information/Write-up
An essential artifact from Vancouver’s late ‘70s/early ‘80s punk underground, Braineaters’ Planet X EP is a raw, art-damaged blast of punk energy, dripping with sci-fi horror aesthetics and fueled by the visionary mind of Jim Cummins—a.k.a. I, Braineater. Released in 1980, this EP captures the band at their most frenetic and creative, blending straight-ahead punk with a twisted, artistic edge that foreshadowed Cummins' evolution into a one-man multimedia force.
The lineup featured local heavyweights of the Vancouver punk scene, including Buck Cherry (Modernettes) and Art Bergman (K-Tels/Young Canadians), both of whom lend their talents to the EP’s tightly wound, jagged tracks. The music is pure experimental art punk—urgent, gritty, and confrontational, but with a sense of theatricality and surrealism that sets it apart from its contemporaries.
Originally released with a unique 8.5" x 11" format sleeve, Planet X was later reissued in 1996, staying true to its original presentation—a testament to its cult status and enduring appeal. What really elevates this release into collector territory is the visual artistry: the sleeves were individually designed and hand-painted, making each copy a one-of-a-kind piece. Some editions came in triangular or square flexi sleeves, while this particular copy was unfolded and accompanied by a painting measuring 17 1/2" x 23 and a unique set of four 11" x 17" posters - these three were on cardboard stock and one on paper stock.
In all its forms, Planet X stands as a compelling snapshot of Vancouver’s DIY experimental punk ethos, merging music and visual art in a way that was—and remains—utterly distinctive. It’s punk, it’s art, and it’s Braineaters at their finest.
-Robert Williston
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