Explain the asthetics of Punk


Here's a fascinating essay describing the Sex Pistols performance at San Francisco's Winterland, January 1978:
http://concerts.wolfgangsvault.com/dt/the-sex-pistols-concert/3054-7788.html?utm_source=NL&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=090616
As an old fashioned "peace-love/classic rock" lover, this episode of music completely eludes me. Didn't The Who catch the same vibe but with a lot more musical skill and integrity? Nonetheless, the essay gives a good snap shot surrounding the Sex Pistols and a glimpse into the punk musical phenomenom. If punk had been a satire, it'd be hailed a triumphant post-modern concept piece. The fact it is "real" is even more amazing to me. Excuse me, I have to put on a Judy Collins records to feel "clean again". LOL.
jwong
I got one word for you, the "Monks"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-5iI0__9S1c
I got one word for you, the "Monks"
Now that's some fun sh#t. If that's Punk I need to buy some.

Earlier in the thread someone mentioned Nirvana and Eminem, I like both and have most of their LPs.

I see the "angry" connection mentioned by several people, all I know is Kurt Cobain is equal parts Indy rock and soul (to me) and Marshall Mathers managed to get me to listen to RAP, something I claimed I would never get into.
Re: Anger and Punk

The Clash's Punk Declaration (from "Clampdown"):

"Let fury have the hour,
Anger can be power"

This sentiment may not be unique to punk music, but it is central to punk music.

Marty
English punk is powered by exclusion, stagnant social classes and political abandonment.

American punk is powered by ennui.
"aesthetics?, we don't need no stinking aesthetics!" Now THAT is the spirit of punk.