Meaning: The quote "I had friends in this band called Mars and they used to play a lot." by Arto Lindsay, a renowned musician and artist, reflects on his personal connection to the influential no wave band, Mars. The quote encapsulates Lindsay's experience and memories of the band's prolific live performances, and it also hints at the significance of Mars within the avant-garde music scene of the late 1970s and early 1980s.

Mars, formed in 1975 in New York City, was a part of the no wave movement, a genre characterized by its experimental and confrontational approach to music. The band consisted of members such as Mark Cunningham, China Burg, and Nancy Arlen, and they were known for their discordant sound, dissonant guitar riffs, and unconventional song structures. Their music often incorporated elements of punk, free jazz, and noise, creating a raw and intense sonic experience.

Arto Lindsay, the speaker of the quote, was also a pivotal figure in the downtown New York music scene during the same period. He is best known for his work as a guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter in bands such as DNA and The Lounge Lizards. Lindsay's musical style, much like that of Mars, was characterized by its avant-garde and boundary-pushing nature, making him a prominent figure in the experimental music community.

The quote can be interpreted as a testament to the camaraderie and mutual respect that existed among musicians within the downtown New York scene at the time. Lindsay's reference to having "friends in this band called Mars" suggests a personal connection to the members of the group, indicating that he was not only a fellow musician but also a part of a close-knit community of artists who supported and influenced each other.

Additionally, the phrase "they used to play a lot" alludes to the band's prolific live performances, highlighting the significance of Mars as a live act. Their shows were known for their raw energy, chaotic improvisation, and unconventional stage presence, which contributed to their cult following and their enduring impact on the underground music scene.

The quote also serves as a reminder of the cultural and historical significance of Mars within the context of the no wave movement. The band, alongside other acts such as Teenage Jesus and the Jerks, DNA, and James Chance and the Contortions, played a crucial role in challenging traditional notions of music and performance, paving the way for a new wave of experimental and alternative music.

In conclusion, Arto Lindsay's quote "I had friends in this band called Mars and they used to play a lot." offers a glimpse into the vibrant and influential music scene of downtown New York in the late 1970s and early 1980s. It encapsulates the spirit of collaboration, experimentation, and artistic camaraderie that characterized the era, and it pays homage to the enduring legacy of Mars as a pioneering force in the no wave movement.