The Plastic People of the Universe: Foremost Czech(oslovak) underground band still going after 45 years

The Plastic People of the Universe, photo: CTK

Influenced by the likes of the Fugs, Frank Zappa and the Velvet Underground, the fiercely independent Plastic People of the Universe were a thorn in the side of Czechoslovakia’s Communist authorities. Despite being banned and having some members jailed, the PPU refused to buckle, continuing to make often abrasive music until a key member was forced into exile. However, after the change of regime the group eventually reformed – and just last week played a special show marking the 45th anniversary of their formation.

The Plastic People of the Universe,  photo: CTK
Influenced by the likes of the Fugs, Frank Zappa and the Velvet Underground, the fiercely independent Plastic People of the Universe were a thorn in the side of Czechoslovakia’s Communist authorities. Despite being banned and having some members jailed, the PPU refused to buckle, continuing to make often abrasive music until a key member was forced into exile. However, after the change of regime the group eventually reformed – and just last week played a special show marking the 45th anniversary of their formation.