As lead singer of Bad Religion, Greg Graffin has been a champion both of the rights and responsibilities of the individual. His philosophy is one of both freedom and duty—yes, as people we are free to live as we desire without fear of tyranny, but each of us must remain conscious of our impact on society and the ecology of the world. It’s a mode of thought he’s explored lyrically and academically, earning a doctorate in zoology from Cornell, where the singer currently serves as a lecturer on evolution.
Now, Graffin further expounds on his thoughts—thoughts that he’s explored lyrically since the early days of Bad Religion—in a new book, Population Wars, set for release September 15 through Harper Perennial. In it, Graffin explores issues regarding ecology, population management, natural history, and human nature while challenging idea about evolutionary theory that promote warfare, according to the press release.
A follow up to his 2010 book, Anarchy Evolution, the release of Population Wars will be marked by a series of mixed media live performances that explore and examine ideas set forth both in his lyrics and in this book. The tour will feature live acoustic performances, spoken word, and a Q&A session, all of which is designed to give insight into the philosophy that has driven him both musically and academically over the years, offering “unprecedented perspective on the longstanding relationship” that these areas have on his life and his work.
You can pre-order Population Wars via Bad Religion’s online merch store; all pre-orders include a special 7” EP of rerecorded Graffin songs that inspired the book.
Tour info:
Fri 9/18/15 Washington, DC – Rock N Roll Hotel
Sat 9/19/15 Philadelphia, PA – Coda
Sun 9/20/15 New York, NY – Gramercy Theater
Wed 9/23/15 Portland, OR – Hawthorne Theater
Fri 9/25/15 Los Angeles – Bootleg
Sun 9/27/15 Santa Ana CA – Constellation
