FREAKNATION 1991 -1997

Freaknation was formed in late 1991 by the core membership of heavy metal monsters Blacksmith. Guitarist David Smith, bassist Chris Madsen and drummer Chris Caglione, traded in their steel toe jackboots for a change in direction and a breath of fresh air. Freaknation, musically was a combination of heavy rhythms, groove infected, socially aware hard rock. At times mellow and most of the time entertaining. Young and talented Will Foley was recruited to fill the empty lead vocalist duties for the band. Foley with his organic, down to earth, honest vocal tones complemented the group perfectly. Will would occasionally stretch out with his wardrobe, going from full leathers or velvet to the Robin Zander suit look. On occasion will was know to have worn just a diaper on stage, or perhaps a g-string and full body glitter (ah! Sweet youth).

Freaknation enjoyed some solid touring for several years, growing as a band and growing as musicians and friends. David experienced quite a fertile writing phase, and was able to, along with the help of his band mates, enter into a real creative songwriting period. The group received great reviews and gathered much acclaim throughout the Northeast region. Constant touring and recording kept Freaknation busy throughout 92 and 93.

In 1994 the band began to record in earnest for their debut album, and as luck would have it Circumstantial / RED/ Sony signed the group. "Achilles Mojo Fix" was released in the spring of 1995. The album / CD was produced by David Smith, and featured all original Smith music, such as "Save", "Bring You In", "One Eye Open" and "Look At Me". More touring, radio airplay and media coverage followed. By the summer of 1997 the old enemy of time, boredom and change, closed in on Freaknation, and the group played their final show together at Kenny's Castaway's in New York City.


Freaknation was a great band, four dedicated individuals into the music and vibe they created, and for a short period of time had a powerful, fun, colorful voice and sound. The songs had a strong commentary on the world outside. As a songwriter, musician and a person, David Smith felt he had turned a corner in his life. Although Freaknation was over (and he missed playing with Chris Madsen and Will Foley), David Smith and Bad Karma, was about to be born. From Blacksmith to Freaknation, back to himself again. David Smith was ready to take the next step into the musically journey he started many years before, as a kid imitating Kiss, Jimmy Page and Ritchie Blackmore in his bedroom mirror. With his guitar, his voice, music, attitude and heart David moves forward doing what he love's to do make music, and maybe give some kid out there the feeling he got when rock and roll found him a long time ago!

All this and the luck of the Irish!

Next:  David Smith and Bad Karma!

FREAKNATION - 1991 - 1997

David Smith - Guitar, vocals
Chris Madsen - Bass
Will Foley - Lead vocals, harmonica, acoustic guitar
Chris Caglione - Drums, vocals