About Steve

Who Steve Was

Steve Almaas was a musician, storyteller, and friend whose warmth, humor, curiosity, and generosity left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He had a rare ability to make people feel welcome, whether they were lifelong friends, fellow musicians, co-workers, or someone he had just met. Steve carried with him the spirit of punk at its best: independent, creative, open-hearted, and deeply human.

People remember Steve not only for his remarkable musical talent, but also for his kindness, wit, enthusiasm, and the genuine interest he took in others. He remained creative and engaged throughout his life, always eager to share music, stories, ideas, and laughter. To many, Steve was both an inspiration and a cherished friend.

Life

Born in Minneapolis in 1956, Steve discovered music at an early age and never looked back. As a young musician, he became one of the founding members of the Suicide Commandos, the pioneering Minneapolis punk band that helped launch the Twin Cities music scene in the mid-1970s. The band's groundbreaking work inspired generations of musicians and paved the way for artists and bands that followed. Later, Steve moved to New York City, where he continued to evolve as an artist, forming The Crackers, leading Beat Rodeo, and pursuing a rich and varied solo career. Throughout his decades in music, he remained a prolific songwriter, performer, and recording artist.

In his later years, Steve made his home in the Hudson Valley, where he became an important part of the local cultural community. In addition to his musical life, he worked at the Woodstock Public Library, where colleagues and patrons alike valued his warmth, intelligence, and welcoming presence. Whether on stage, in the library, or among friends, Steve built community wherever he went.

What Mattered to Him

Music was at the center of Steve's life, but what truly mattered to him were the people and communities that music created. He believed in creativity, authenticity, friendship, and the power of artistic expression to bring people together. Steve cared deeply about independent music, supporting fellow artists, and nurturing creative communities.

He valued connection, conversation, humor, and lifelong learning. Steve remained endlessly curious and continued creating, performing, and sharing music throughout his life. He embraced both the rebellious spirit of punk and the generosity of community, leaving an enduring legacy not only through his songs, but through the countless lives he touched.

In His Own Words

Steve's life was perhaps best reflected in the spirit with which he approached it: stay creative, stay connected, and keep making music while you can.

Friends and bandmates recalled that, after the passing of members of other pioneering punk bands, Steve urged his fellow Suicide Commandos members, "We should make another record while we're all still here" — a sentiment that ultimately led to the band's reunion album Time Bomb. That outlook captured Steve's appreciation for friendship, creativity, and making the most of the time we are given.