PURPLE HEARTS - Frustration 7'' 1979

A quick visit to my favorite city in Europe: London. Here we enjoy the company of a nice band that provides a bit of an emotional moment. And they deserve a bit info from wiki: The Purple Hearts are an mod revival band which were formed 1977 in Romford, eastern Greater London. They were often considered one of the best English mod revival groups, the NME calling them "one of the few mod bands to actually cut it on Rock'N'Roll terms". They started in 1977 when teenagers Jeff Shadbolt, Simon Stebbing, Bob Manton, and Nick Lake formed the band in Romford as The Sockets, before they even knew how to play their instruments. They formed for the purpose of getting a support slot at a Buzzcocks gig at the East London Polytechnic, to debut their tongue-in-cheek rock opera. In 1978, their drummer Nick Lake broke his leg. He was replaced by Gary Sparks. The band switched their name to Purple Hearts, after an amphetamine-barbiturate mixture popular with the mods of the 1960s. Accordingly, they changed their sound from the rough-edged Punkrock, to a more mod-influenced sound, which, thanks largely to The Jam, was beginning to capture public attention. In September 1979, the band scored a minor hit with their debut single, "Millions Like Us" which reached number 57 in the UK Singles Chart. The band then toured the UK with Secret Affair and Back To Zero on 'the march of the mods' tour in 1979. The band's second single, "Frustration" was released in November that year and a tour of the UK follows to promote the single.

In 1980 they released their debut album, Beat That! and was produced by Chris Parry of Fiction Records. The single 'Jimmy' is taken from and gave them another minor hit reaching number 60 in the UK chart in March 1980. After the commercial failure of Beat That!, the band parted company with Fiction Records, before signing a one-off single deal with Safari which produced the "My Life's A Jigsaw" single and the 7Inch did make the BBC Radio One playlist, but didn't make it to the national charts. A final single, "Plane Crash" was released in 1982, on the independent record label Roadrunner Records before the band split up in November of that year after a failed American trip. After the Hearts, Jeff Shadbolt joined The Rage, who included Brett Ascott from The Chords. Gary Sparks joined High Zierra with former members of Department S, Tony Lourdan, Mark Taylor and Michael Herbage. Simon Stebbing joined Hearts On Fire who recorded an album Dreams Of Leaving and two EPs for Midnite Records. Bob Manton joined Simon Stebbing and Peter Green in cosmic country rockers Owen & The Deacons. They resurfaced in 1984 to release a live album, Head On Collision Time (1985) recorded live at the 100 Club, and their second studio effort, Popish Frenzy (1986). A single "Friends Again" taken from this album was released on Unicorn Records. In 1986 the group toured West Germany, Austria and the Netherlands before once again calling it a day. They re-convened at the Mods Mayday '99 show, recorded for the Detour Records live compilation album. In 2003, Stebbing produced a rarities goodie, Smashing Time, also released on Detour Records. Two superb songs, and I'm sure each of us came across with the lyrics and can tell about such feelings, because we're not morons, to that the catchy sound and you're captivated.

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THE DARK - The Masque 7'' 1982

I think The Masque was the Dark's last 7Inch and features two fantastic tracks, released via Fresh Records. Well, what else can I say? They are well known in the UK Punk scene and you have probably come across them, especially they've been on a lot of Compilations which aren't always great records, and mostly with this title track. Why do people do this? Probably to make money, I guess. And whether the band gets anything out of it is equally questionable. Well, life stinks and later I'm on a short trip to Cologne, let's see what's going on there, invited to the company party.

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WARFARE - Mayhem, Fuckin' Mayhem 1986

I still remember the torn MetalHammer review from back then, and it said, and I quote: "This album is only for brewery owners and Tankard fans." I immediately thought, I like both and I have to buy the record, the reviewer is an idiot and no matter what he says, they've already made two great albums, so the next one can't be crap. I like it when those morons screw up an LP, then it gets interesting for me. So here we go.... Warfare brings back very good memories that are still etched in my mind and listening to them is always a joy and pleasure for me. Formed in the early Eighties by drummer and vocalist Evo, who was previously associated with the Blood. The band's sound is a blend of Punk and Metal, often categorized as speed or thrash metal, with a raw and aggressive edge. Warfare's debut album Pure Filth (still coming) was released in 1984 and produced by Lemmy  (R.I.P.), which helped to establish their presence in the Metal scene. Their second masterpiece "Metal Anarchy" followed in 1985 and this bloody bastard, the third one Mayhem Fuckin' Mayhem (Falken on bass left and was replaced by Zlaughter) came out in 1986, again on Neat Records, and continued to build on their reputation for high-energy music with a fine Punk attitude. Throughout their career, Warfare has been known for their uncompromising sound and have maintained a cult following among fans of the heavier subgenres of metal. For me this is the last good Warfare album, after this they sound a bit too weak and without ideas like a fucking grey day in November. Anyway, eleven gems that will brighten up your day and that's all that matters, must listen!!

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V/A - Earth Rapers & Hell Raisers 2x7'' 1989

We stay fast and loud and come to this double 7inch on Hippycore Records with mostly American bands that are rather unknown to me (except Samiam whose song is almost out of place I think) but somehow and where all of them made a 7inch or even a record. It's a Benefit release for Phoenix Earth First!, I can't say exactly what it is or was but it doesn't matter, the song selection is consistently cool and sharp. A healthy mix I would say, Hardcore with a bit of metal influence and solid like a good friend who won't let you down, a second release followed in the same year on green vinyl with different colored cover. That was the weekend on wdthtc and let's see what's coming up next week, apart from a dentist appointment at 7:00 in the morning, I'm already looking forward to that....

1.Technology (The Evil) - SINS OF THE FLESH

2.Intellectual Hypocrites - BENT!

3.Nuclear Delicacies - JESTERS OF CHAOS

4.Graveyard At Sea - PISSED HAPPY CHILDREN

5.Hold My Breath - REALITY CONTROL

6.Gender Slavery - CONSPIRACY OF EQUALS

7.Blind Man's Holiday - MACHINE

8.Insightful - SAMIAM

9.Fuck, Kill, Destroy - PLEASANT VALLEY CHILDREN

10.Kenny's Song - POLLUTION CIRCUS

11.Earth First! - SEEIN' RED

12.Christian Crack Diary - CHRIST ON A CRUTCH

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SUBCULTURE - Blood & Dust 7'' 2013

A nice 7Inch by Subculture, an Oi! combo from Cambridge, they started in early 1980 and original line-up were Bleeter (vocals), Dean (guitars), Phil (bass), Matt (drums), they split in 1983 and reunited in 2011 and this is one of their newer things, I think the second 7Inch, on Contra Records and 500 copies exist (200 on light marbled & 200 on dark marbled vinyl, the rest in black). The record is certainly not a sensation; their older stuff has more power and steam and appeals more to me but what the Fuck. They dared to write something new because people in this world are still full of crap, and in doing so they overcame their fears and stayed true into their hearts, which is something I can't say about everyone. Good Job!

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CHAOS U.K. - Total Chaos (The 7Inch Collection) 1991

We all know the great the Punk Collectors Series by Anagram Records which is always equipped with all rarities of the respective combos and today we enjoy the collection of Chaos U.K., a four piece formed 1979 in Portishead, near Bristol. They emerged as part of the Anarcho-Punk scene, developing a fast and aggressive HardcorePunk style, the original line-up consisted of Simon (vocals), Andy (guitar), Adrian (bass) and finally Richard (drums). The boys really kick with their three-chord, distorted guitars that almost always sound the same, and that's exactly the typical English speed sound I like to hear. You might think every song sounds the same and there's nothing new, but Chaos U.K. also has quiet moments and longer pieces. Not many, but they show that they have some instrumental mastery. The band recorded two EPs and a full album for Riot City Records and the debut was notable in the fact that the band's label claimed it was the "fastest, noisiest LP in the cosmos" in the short-lived "Punk Lives" magazine. Many records followed, their last one coming out in 2015. I guess they're still alive and touring the UK occasionally, and maybe something new will come out soon. I'm going to have breakfast now.

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BLITZ BOYS - Eddy's New Shoes EP 1980

Interestingly, I found some nice things on a USB stick, and this is one of them. Sometimes I really wonder where I have other treasures hidden. Well, my memory is patchy, and my brain is even worse... I was thinking about making a new Compliation, but yesterday I drank a little too much Äppler due to current events, hahahaha... well, fuck the bad thoughts away.. Welcome Blitz Boys, a British short lived combo from the Forest of Dean, Gloucestershire. Formed in 1979 and they consisted of Jeremy (vocals), Jonathan & Barry (guitars), Andrew (bass), Howard (drums). This beauty was released in an edition of 500 copies on their own label Told You So Records, extremely rare and thankfully reissued by Sing Sing Records in 2012. Disbanded shortly after releasing their only 7Inch. Could be heard on Back To Front Vol.1 and Raw & Rare British Punk Vol.2. There are three decent numbers to hear that are at home in the PowerPopPunk heaven, no failures, all relaxed and heat-resistant.

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BEARS - On Me 7'' 1978

So welcome the Bears with their second and final 7Inch on Waldo's Records and they were one of the first bands on the emerging Watford Punk scene in the Christmas of 1976. Two fantastic pieces with distinctive riffs, the record was the Single of the Week in Sounds on June 3, 1978 (a rare success for an indie Punk band of this time). On Me is a delightful testament to the early Watford punk scene: minimalist, yet with a charming sense of absurdity. The flip is a longer, improvised piece with absurd everyday texts, simply delicious. This high acclaim demonstrates that the Bears briefly enjoyed significant regional recognition. Unfortunately, tragedies and frequent lineup changes prevented a longer-term presence in the Punk scene. Perfect three-chord sound to enjoy.

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TEA SET - Cups'N'Saucers EP 1978

Things continue at a lively pace with another interesting band that was also on the road with tinkling instruments, an decent improvement on yesterday. We're talking about the Tea Set, a Watford based PopPunk combo who were active between 1978-1982 and the band was formed 1978 at Watford College of Art by Nic (vocals), Stewart (guitars), Ron (bass, whose previous band the Bears had broken up after singer Mick North was tragically killed in a motorcycle accident along with Pete Dallymore singer of the Paper Doylies), Cally (drums), Mark (keyboard) and in their short lifetime they released four 7Inches, this piece is the debut on Waldo's Records. The EP sold out its initial run of 1500 copies extremely fast, partly due to the forty second track 'B52G', which was a crowd favourite. The second follow up, released in 1979 was the Sounds Magazine's record of the week and had great reviews throughout the Alternative Music Media. John Peel added the track to his pioneering BBC radio show (the band later recorded one of his famous Peel Sessions). This got the attention of the Stranglers front man, Hugh Cornwell, who was serving time in Brixton Prison for possession of Hashish. Hugh produced the bands third 7Inch (in the bands words "The most expensive 'B' side ever made"). Unfortunatey, due partly, to the media's dislike of The Stranglers (they once kidnapped a music journalist) the song was considered a huge disappointment. The Tea Set disbanded in 1982 after numerous performances that were reminiscent of concerts with rave reviews. Cleopatra Records released in 2019 a Compilation (Back In Time For Tea) with all single tracks plus two unreleased songs. Grab it!

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V/A - Punk Lives! Let's Slam 1986

Cool Compilation on Slam Records, a sub label from my favorite label Rot Records, and you know how great their releases are. Simple, informationless presentation and limited to 1000 copies but the selection is always quite good and mostly with bands of which not much vinyl exists, with a few exceptions of course, as is the case on this record. Healthy mix that will take you forty-five minutes of your valuable time but will never get boring. Check in!

1.Inferno - ANIHILATED

2.Suffer Children - STONE THE CROWZ

3.Naytelma - RATTUS

4.Cats Eyes - POLITICAL ASYLUM

5.Bloody Road To Glory - RABID

6.Rebellious City - POISEN JUSTICE

7.Flight Of Fancy - POLITICAL ASYLUM

8.Happy But Ignorent - THROBS

9.Life To It's End - POISEN JUSTICE

10.Black Cat - RABID

11.Friendship - STONE THE CROWZ

12.40 Dumb Animals - ANIHILATED

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SHAM 69 - Tell Us The Truth 1978

It's time for a classic and today we meet the debut album by Sham 69 from Hersham on Polydor and the a-side was recorded live in concert, while the other was recorded in the studio. Formed 1975 by Jimmy (vocals), Neil & Billy (guitars), Albie (bass) and Johnny (drums). They played at many of the famous Punk hotspots during this time and the band name is said to have derived from a piece of graffiti that Jimmy saw on a wall. They didn't have the art school background of many English Punk bands of the time, and brought in football chant backup vocals and an implicit political populism, they attracted a large skinhead following (left wing, right wing and non-political) and their gigs were plagued by violence. Anyway, some line-up changes were made and a deal with Step-Forward Records was landed and the first 7Inch (I Don't Wanna) was finally released at a suitable time. Then they switched to Polydor (four albums were released) and this remained their label until their first dissolution in 1980. What happened next you can read for yourself, the fact is, the debut is simply brilliant and they've been cited as a major influence on the Oi! musical subgenre of UK Punk in the late 1970s, and also on the working class street Punk musical subgenre of the Eighties.

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INSTIGATORS - @ Berlin/University 05.06.1987

Powerful sound from one of my favorite UK bands, and for me there's only one band, well, at least the one whose music always makes me vibrate: The Instigators from Dewsbury and this awesome live record was originally released as Wall Of Sound album by Meantime Records, this re-release came three years later on Mystic Records in purple marble vinyl. Sixteen classics in a very good quality of their hard melodic sound captured in Berlin and pushes the heartily refreshing joy of playing of the band directly into your veins, even a stone would dance, so lively is the performance of the four. There is a lot of live stuff from the Instigators and I don't know all of it, but this album is a good introduction for everyone who likes authentic sounds and wants to get to know the band; they apparently never really broke up, and no current activities or releases are known. Their last release was from 1989, so I guess they're not active anymore. Whatever, enjoy a short time in Berlin and beam yourself into the late Eighties. Cheers!

Eye To Eye/Dine Upon The Dead/Hedonism/Computer Age/The Fix/Doomsday Plus One/Rules/Old Is Sad/Situation Desperate/Dark & Lonely/Summer/Wrong Word/Free/The Blood Is On Your Hands/The Church Says/It's Got To Be Stopped

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THE SCABS - s/t EP 1979

Today's post is more of a mix-up, and I won't go into it in detail. Those who are informed know what I mean, and everyone else doesn't need to know. First of all, a bit of info from the brilliant Punk77 site since I'm feeling a bit lazy right now: The Scabs were five Exeter University students and consisted of James (vocals), John (guitar/organ), Steve (bass), Patrick (drums), Simon (saxophone) and their sole record was released via Clubland Records (their own label) and containing all the ingredients needed to make a minor Punk classic; tinny guitars, cheap keyboards and over the top sneering vocals. Recorded in nearly two hours the songs are fast and fun and have been constantly bootlegged over the years on various Killed By Death Compilations. Two pressings of a thousand each. The first in a blue sleeve, the second in red and they resorted to selling copies to their fellow students at the school cafe. After the Scabs split, a couple of members moved onto the more new wave orientated M5s. Drummer Patrick remained active on the Exeter Punk scene, promoting shows throughout the 80’s before becoming a partner in Exeter live venue The Cavern Club. More background about the band is waiting at JustSomePunkSongs in an interview with singer James. Cool Stuff!

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SNUFF - Not Listening EP 1989

Debut EP by this three piece from London which were founded 1986 and the original line-up consisted of Duncan (vocals/drums), Simon (guitar/vocals) and Andy (bass). Snuff signed to the Workers Playtime label and their first release was this great EP, which received regular airplay from BBC Radio 1 Disc Jockey John Peel, and reached number nine in the UK Independent Chart. They characterized by its catchy sound and humorous, often ironic satirical lyrics (mostly socially critical and address current social issues, but are also presented with a wink) and is known for its melodic Punkrock, combining fast, energetic rhythms with brilliant melodies and multi-part vocals, the band has evolved over the years, experimenting with new styles that aren't always well-received, but remain true to its roots. Snuff released their debut album in 1988 to critical acclaim. Numerous albums and singles have followed, making them one of the most prolific combos, blessed with energy & creativity, all of which underscore their distinctive style. They are also known for their energetic live performances and they toured various countries and is an integral part of the European underground scene. Their music has influenced many other bands, and they are considered "Pioneers" of melodic Punkrock. A distinctive feature of Snuff is the multi-part vocals that can be heard in many of their songs. This gives their sound a special dynamic and sets them apart from others. Snuff are still active, and their influence can be felt in the music of many contemporary Punkbands.. yeah, they leave a lasting mark with their distinctive style and energetic music and with a career spanning several decades, they remain a significant player in the music landscape and is cherished by fans/critics alike.

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UK DECAY & PNEUMANIA - Split EP 1979

May, as the saying goes, brings new life to everything. Whether that actually happens is another question. But it's nice not to be goin' robotic on this first day of this wonderful month and let’s start the first record, a fine litte EP on Plastic Records with two combos and it's the first vinyl release by these both. Info: Following a brief stint as the Resistors, the Luton based UK Decay was formed in the winter of 1978 and consisted of Abbo (vocals/guitar), Martyn (bass), Steve (drums) and they released several 7Inches and an LP for Fresh Records, before forming their own label. Both of their songs are captivating due to their dark atmosphere and didn't sound like the typical British Punk sound, which is quite unusual considering that at the end of the Seventies a lot of music was played fast and hard. That's the reason why UK Decay are one of the original bands to cross over from Punk to what was then becoming called "Gothic", in the early '78 London scene. Their last studio recording was an EP titled Rising From The Dread, recorded in 1982 on Corpus Christi, a Crass label. A posthumous release, "A Night For Celebration", which was a live recording of the very last show (Klub Foot, Hammersmith, Dec 1982) came out on cassette in early 1983. After a long hiatus, they released their last EP in 2014 and I guess they continue to tour here and there in England. - Pneumania were Elaine (vocals), Pete (guitar), Steve The Voice (bass) Dave (drums) and they have only made these two beauties on vinyl. Both songs convey the crude and disrespectful attitude of the fucking society towards her and her kind. It becomes clear when you listening to the songs how energetic she brought herself in. Fazit: a successful debut for two extraordinary bands who are pioneers for a new genre and today's growing scene. Both can also be found on some Compilations.

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LEATHERFACE - I Want The Moon EP 1991

When I'm drunk, or worried, or just unfocused and my mind is completely empty, I like to resort to tried-and-true methods. I don't need to write much about them because most of you already know them, and that's not to detract from the post, but it does make things easier for me, and now is such a moment. Today my friends from Leatherface from Sunderland are pushing me over the blind spot and not for sale is their intense fifth EP with three exquisite weaving arpeggiated guitar filigrees in amongst barrages of power and barre chords and one of the fiercest playing dynamic songs, two are non-album tracks, and released via Roughneck Records. These days, their 7Inchers are highly sought after and hard to come by, so that's enough for today. I'm tired and looking forward to tomorrow's day off.

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PENETRATION - Danger Signs 12'' 1979

Before I dedicate myself to another self-made Compilation, we travel to England and visit a band that likes to be guests in my four walls: Penetration, known for its powerful sound and the distinctive voice of frontwoman Pauline Murray. The band was part of the emerging Punk scene & characterized itself through a blend of Punk, New Wave, and Post-Punk. "Danger Signs" is one more great record with three goodies, two of them live on the flip. Opens with the energetic title track which immediately captures your ears and demands your full attention. Murray's haunting vocals and dynamic instrumentation immediately create an enthralling atmosphere. The next highlight are the live pieces which impresses with its catchy melody and powerful rhythm. This showcases the band's ability to combine catchy hooks with an aggressive sound. The guitar work is concise and driving, while the bass and drums provide a solid foundation. Penetration manages to strike a balance between a raw Punk sound and melodic elements. Overall a strong 12Inch that showcases Penetration's evolution as a band. It cements their place in British Punk history and highlights their ability to create both powerful and insightful music. They're a band that capable of expressing the complexity of human emotions through their music.

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THE LURKERS - BBC Punk Sessions 2000

As part of The BBC Punk Sessions series on Captain Oi!, a Compilation featuring four Lurkers Peel Sessions from 1977 - 1979 and yeah, the west London boys kicking ass, as they were already harder and faster than most of their peers in '77 and they were part of the first wave of British Punk bands to emerge in the mid-'70s, playing tough, meat-and-potatoes rock & roll with plenty of attitude and a jaundiced eye toward the world around them. The Lurkers are one of the bands that embody the heart of British Punkrock. This Compilation offers a fascinating look at the band's musical development and influence and not only a nostalgic trip down memory lane, but also a powerful testament to the timeless energy and relevance of early UK Punk. The recordings are taken from the legendary BBC Sessions, which allowed the band to present their raw, unpolished energy in a slightly different light. The live atmosphere captured in these recordings conveys a sense of immediacy and authenticity. You can practically feel the excitement of that time, when Punk was still in its infancy and turning the music world upside down. Musically, the Lurkers are unmistakable. Their blend of catchy melodies and powerful riffs immediately captivates you. Songs like "Ain't Got A Clue" and "I Don't Need To Tell Her" are timeless earworms that still captivate even the most discerning listener today. The lyrics are direct, unvarnished, and authentic. It's this honesty that sets the Londoners apart from other bands of their time. The CD's production is of high quality, as you would expect from Captain Oi! - Another plus is the variety of songs. Their best-known hits and deep cuts, give everyone a comprehensive insight into their work. This selection is ​​an interesting experience. Overall, a successful homage and an important documentation of Punk history. It shows how this band was not only part of a movement, but also developed its own distinctive style. A timeless piece that has lost none of its power even after all these years.

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ZOUNDS - More Trouble 7'' 1982

Zounds is one of my favorite UK Punk band and this is one of their last single before they took a long break in 1982 (back 2001). A review: "Reputedly the last release from Zounds, this 45 showcases an appealing change of musical direction. From punk origins to their rather post-punk phase to this, an ennui-filled variety of pop music particular to the English." (Jeff Bale, MRR #3 • November/December 1982) I also think that the steam of the early tones has subsided a bit, much calmer and softer, almost like fabric softener, but still audible and just Zounds. Compare their other works in the blog and I don't want to babble too much, because a week of vacation is starting and I'll be spending it in the countryside, but stay tuned friends, the thread continues to spin.

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V/A - Bullshit Detector 1980

An important series that was born in the early Eighties is called Bullshit Detector and it's a collection of Compilations featuring demos which sent to Crass by a variety of bands and were then released on Crass Records and I only know the first three and all came with a cool fold-out poster containing a collage of information, lyrics and artwork to all the bands, and all for a litte bunch of gravel. The sound quality was mixed and often basic, or even poor, as Crass would master the tapes directly to record without any additional production or enhancement. For Crass, the expectation of a polished performance was missing the point. But that's exactly what makes these songs/records worth listening to: Authentic, raw and unpolished, they convey the rebellious, anti-attitude of the Punk spirit and when I listen to these gems today, after more than forty years, I know I did a lot of things right and you won't be able to get rid of this feeling, it will always stay inside of you. Love passes, but Punk never. And the message is still the same as it was then, get off your ass and don't accept everything that stupid society or TV shows you. With this in mind, my friends, I wish you a nostalgic listening pleasure.

1.Jazz On A Summers Day - ANDY T

2.Don't Wanna Fight For You - COUNTER ATTACK

3.Change It - THE ALTERNATIVE

4.We Are You - CLOCKWORK CRIMINALS

5.Girls Love Popstars - REPUTATIONS IN JEOPARDY

6.Do They Owe Us A Living? - CRASS

7.University Challenged - AMEBIX

8.Local Chaos - SCEPTICS

9.Mark Of The Beast - THE SINYX

10.Thalidomide - FRENZY BATTALION

11.Cancer - ICON

12.Why? - THE SPEAKERS

13.Anarchist Attack - A.P.F. BRIGADE

14.Right Or Wrong - FUCK THE C.I.A.

15.Morning Star - CAINE MUTINY & THE KALLISTI APPLES OF NONSENSE

16.'3' - THE SUCKS

17.Khaki Doesn't Go With My Eyes - PORNO SQUAD

18.Soldiers - S.P.G. MURDERS

19.National Service - ERATICS

20.Who Needs Society? - RED ALERT

21.War Song - THE SNIPERS

22.Power - ARMCHAIR POWER

23.Napalm - DISRUPTERS

24.Nagasaki Mon Amour - ANDY T

25.Drumming Up Hope (Ferret Skank) - ACTION FROGS

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