#brix smith

Karl Burns (born 19 March 1958) left

legendary figure in the history of The Fall, widely considered the band's most significant drummer alongside Paul Hanley and Simon Wolstencroft.

He is famously reported to have been hired and fired (or resigned) by frontman Mark E. Smith a record nine times between 1977 and 1998.

Burns was known for a "tribal," aggressive, and highly disciplined drumming style. Steve Hanley (the band’s longtime bassist) noted that Burns had a unique ability to build a song up and bring it back down, significantly influencing the rhythm-heavy "Fall sound.

The Early Years (1977–1979) joined as the band's first permanent drummer, replacing Steve Ormrod. He played on the debut EP Bingo-Master's Break-Out! and the classic debut album Live at the Witch Trials.

The "Classic" Dual-Drummer Era (1981–1986) After a stint in The Teardrops, Burns returned initially to fill in for a young Paul Hanley (who couldn't get a US visa).

This evolved into a powerful two-drummer lineup that defined the band's "golden era," featuring on masterpieces like Hex Enduction Hour and This Nation's Saving Grace.

The 90s Returns (1993–1998) returned for albums like The Infotainment Scam and Levitate. His final departure occurred in April 1998 following a notorious on-stage physical altercation with Mark E. Smith at Brownies in New York City, which led to the near-total collapse of that specific lineup.

Live at the Witch Trials (1979)

Hex Enduction Hour (1982)

Perverted by Language (1983)

The Wonderful and Frightening World of The Fall (1984)

This Nation's Saving Grace (1985)