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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ANGELIC UPSTARTS - Reason Why? 1983

Now a classic one and everyone who follows this blog knows that I am a huge Angelic Upstarts maniac and I am happy to have been able to experience them live. Friends of the band know that they screwed up extremely badly with the previous album, as their record company at the time demanded that they tame their roots and put a miserable pop producer in front of them and demanded an album that would increase sales and it turned out to be, of course, a huge disappointment (although the original demos were really usable). Any sensible Upstarts friend couldn't help but thoroughly dissect this fourth album in a negative way. They went quiet and the deal with Anagram Records finally ensured a furious 'comeback' with some of what are now classics and showed the team back in their usual guise. Further infos are included on the insert, although I only have the CD version and some of it is poorly documented. Anyway, Reason Why? is a strong relic and of immense importance in the band's extensive discography.

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THE DYAKS - Gutter Kids 7'' 1977

Original released without a label, 1978 via Bonaparte Records with another B-side but all three goddies in this file. Info: The Dyaks were Chris (vocals/guitars), Groll (bass), Brian (drums) and Chris was also behind Jabberwock who produced the Majestic Proggy Glamster Sneakin’ Snaky around the same time. The Dyaks is a punky name and they had a punky sounding single title and a punky cover with a knife wielding kid on the front. But sorry to say, in all truth, an abysmal record that definitely isn’t Punk, PowerPop or NewWave. The single was Gutter Kids/It's A Game and it’s from the Punk school of The Who with its crashing open chords and melodic chorus but somehow fails to convince. A second single On The Run was recorded in February 1978 as a follow up but was never released (limited to 25 or less copies) which is more of the same. The earlier version of Gutter Kids (probably recorded at Pathway Studios in July 1977) is so much better than the released version. Here the guitar slash and crash in an updated 66 Who windmill fashion, while the song structure wins out by debuting the rousing chorus earlier than in the released version with the harmonies bringing a nice Powerpop sprinkling to Proceedings. The flip starts off in Clash mode before going nice and melodic, with an end betraying their pre-punk musicianship. The Dyaks/Jabberwock were really stuck in the middle of Year 0, unsure which bus to take, but as exemplified here; the superior chops and melodic core they possessed were in stark contrast to other more “credible” and run-of-the mill bandwagon Jumpers. Also featured on interesting Compilations, but only the title track of their first single was used for all, hmmmm..... well...at least. Remains to be mentioned that all the studio songs, only fucking four, are included in this delicious cocktail and you can decide for yourself which one is your favorite. It's time for a break, I'm done.

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SCHOOL TIES - No Future 7'' 1980

Now a rare 7Inch by this five piece called School Ties, founded in Hitchin and they consisted of Lian (vocals), Kevin (guitars), Alan (bass), Patrick (drums) & Chris (keyboard), they released their debut without a sleeve via SCF Records and I can't give more infos about the bio or anything else. Fact is, they made two 7Inches, this ist their first one and the second, which also contains two songs, were used for the essential The Quest Tapes Compilation from 1982. But their contribution to the also rare England Belongs To Me #2 Compi proves that they are valued and not everyone gets this attention from the detectives (they aren't gods either). Well, the title track is a refreshing statement with heart that exactly reflects the attitude to life at that time in the UK, a nice mid-tempo number with subtle keyboards... very very nice. The flip, on the other hand, is a bit bumpy, it comes across as stomping but the clean production makes up for everything. Also nice, especially the short solo keyboard sounds kind of snippy. I would say it's exactly the perfect sound to start breakfast, with a cold beer on a cold winter's day, the weekend is safe, only my broken toe is starting to get on my nerves.

- Great Thx to Nolti -

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RARE - Walking EP 1981

Three song EP on St. Rogers Records by this very unknown combo called Rare. No date on labels but this was apparently recorded in 1981 and we have three nice goodies. Two reggae-inspired tunes that are absolutely fine for me, fantastic slow tempo, very bass-heavy with a subtle organ that only the most Hardcore reggae bands can pull off, but the boys from the United Kingdom do it damn well. The third song is a real KBD smasher that I will definitely immortalize on my next Compilation. I think the EP was released without a proper cover, but I'm not sure and I can't imagine a large print run, so dear friends, this is a truly rare jewel with some damn cool stuff that you shouldn't miss! Now soccer ⚽

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GIRL GUIDED MISSILES - Desperate Men 7'' 1979

The evening is going to be long and I still have to write a lot of emails, but before I do that a little contribution to a rare 7Inch from a band that nobody knows anyway. That means it belongs exactly in this theater. Girl Guided Missiles was a short-lived four piece from Redditch and consisted of Martin & Steve (vocals/guitars), Adrian (bass), Nick (drums) and this is their only record via Seandee Records. 1000 copies of this goodie were pressed, most of them were sold locally and at gigs. It's extremely hard to find and sought-after nowdays but is unreservedly recommended, was re-released in 2021 by Breakout Records so that they wouldn't be forgotten, good idea. A review: This is a reissue of the Girl Guided Missiles’ only record, originally released in 1979. They have a catchy, amateurish sound that will be familiar to fans of late ’70s Post-Punk bands from the north of England. The songs are longer than most bands of the era, but they never lose steam. They keep on rockin’ out to the end. Two great songs. A great reissue. (Carolyn Keddy, MRR #457 • June 2021) There is nothing to add, a slightly different sound from the British Punk island.

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WHIZZ KIDS - Suspect No.1 7'' 1980

Okay, let me first say this isn't my vinyl rip, except for the B-side, which is from the East Compilation but since nobody is able to send me a solid copy and I'd like to work through the wanted list I looked for the single and it's really amazing that there isn't a good quality of this bloody sucker anywhere and to buy it, well, you can see for yourself how much money people want for this, hence this stolen A-side because I think this four piece deserves a bit of your attention as well. The Whizz Kids were a four piece from Lincoln and consisted of Lox (vocals/guitars), The Dodger (guitars), Dave (bass), Rob (drums) and this ist their second 7Inch which was released via Ovation Records. Otherwise, not much is known about the band itself and there is only less infos, they were active in the late Seventies, early Eighties and are mainly known for their contribution to the local music scene. Well, maybe an original rip will be welcome at some point, so it stays on the Wanted-List. The title track is an excellent PowerPop number while the flip is a bit quieter, cool stuff in any case. - My screams have been heard and forget the words above of a bad rip, now the excellent vinyl version:

- Great Thx to Bruce -

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THE DAMNED - Friday 13th EP 1981

Just the right time for an almost classic and it's difficult to say anything bad about the gents from London. At least I don't know of any bad albums, but I have to admit I haven't heard them all. I'm lazy today and will use a few lines from Wiki that sum up almost everything in a nutshell, here we go: This little four track beauty was issued by the Damned as the result of a one-off liaison with Nems Records and was released on 13.November 1981, which fell on a Friday. The lead-off track, "Disco Man", was featured on many Compilations, also becoming a live favourite. Two of the other three tracks, "Billy Bad Breaks" and "Limit Club", were composed by the band; the final track was a cover version of the Rolling Stones song "Citadel". Not tired at all and elegant sexy, who needs words when the music has everything? A very good phase of the band!

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V/A - Electrocute Your Cock! Vol.2 2023

Welcome to the last day of 2024 and I want to end this year, which was mixed and had some highlights for me, in a worthy manner. Volume 1 was posted already three years ago and on the one hand, such Compilations are great, but on the other hand, the selection is rather modest, because many songs have already appeared on the relevant classics of the Nineties. So, the question is, why use this stuff again? Well, I think the old records are hard to find nowadays or are no longer available. Anyway, on the second installment we have seventeen rare obscure, snotty & moronic masterpieces from the US & UK, recorded 1979 to 1983 and it's a good release on MacDonald's Records, satisfaction guaranteed! Enjoy the little ecstasy of the good ole days and I wish you all a Happy New Year and take care of yourselves.

1.Slow Death - POLITICAL CRAP

2.Biplane - ANTI-BAND

3.The Russians Are Coming! - A.D. 1984

4.Uncircumcised Twin - PLASTIC IDOLS

5.GIGOLOS - This Generation - GIGOLOS

6.Fighting In The USA - THE SINS

7.Nothing - GROUND ZERO

8.In The Slot - ADAPTORS

9.Gypsy Lid - MEN IN BLACK

10.X Patriots - COUNT VERTIGO

11. Anti Vogue - SAIGON

12.TV Tantrum - SNOT PUPPIES

13.I Said Everybody - B PEOPLE

14.I'm A Square - ANOREXIA

15.Born Dead - LOST CAUSE

16.(Look So Easy) When Your Young - VICTIMS OF SOCIETY

17.Crazy Life - TERRORISTS

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V/A - Avon Calling 2 2010

Well friends, it's that time again, Christmas Eve is here, families and loved ones come together for once a year to tell stories and eat and spend the evening in cozy harmony, just as society celebrates and television dictates. And many of you know what my position is on all this crap. These days mean nothing to me and in the past few years have only brought pain and misunderstanding. But I don't want to speak badly of these days, no no, of course there are happy people who look forward to them all year and others who remain alone and wish they would pass quickly, and for all those who have nothing planned for these days, this theater is also made. Let's see if I can cheer you up a bit with some old stuff that could light up your hearts. Already fourteen years old but filled with rare goodies is the following Compilation from Bristol Archive Records and is in my opinion a worthy continuation. A small intro: "This new album full of forgotten treasures and will sit perfectly along side the original Avon Calling release and go some way to completing the story of just what was happening in Bristol back in 1979/1980 and how the music sounds as relevant today as it did back then. If you like British Punk you'll like this, and one for collectors too." This not only sounds interesting, it is interesting! A wonderful mix of excellent tastings and in any case precious.

1.Self Confession - SOCIAL SECURITY

2.The Only One - EUROPEANS

3.Broken Glass  APARTMENT

4.You Got It - PRIVATE DICKS

5.People Of Today - THE X-CERTS

6.Audition Room - ESSENTIAL BOP

7.Retrospect - APARTMENT

8.Mr Magoo - SNEAK PREVIEW

9.Letters In My Desk - JOE PUBLIC

10.Train To Brighton - 48 HOURS

11.Showcase - THE DIRECTORS

12.Want Some Fun - PRIVATE DICKS

13.I Can't Get Out - SNEAK PREVIEW

14.Middle Of Nowhere - STEREO MODELS

15.Any Takers - THE PHONE

16.Suicide Man - SEAN RYAN

17.Faster - JOE PUBLIC

18.Dancer - TVI’S

19.Empty Promises - THE DIRECTORS

20.You Might As Well Enjoy Yourself - UNKNOWN ARTIST

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RABID - The Bloody Road To Glory EP 1982

I did a little searching on my hard drive and found the following one. It's not my rip either, but it's worth posting this music. Back across the canal to meet Rabid, who weren't able to get off to a good start like others, a four piece from Leicester which were founded 1979 and they consisted on this fine debut EP of Nick (vocals), Dean(bass), Brute (guitars), Penny (drums) and initially active between till 1986. A new line-up of the band was reformed in 2013. After recording a 5-track demo in 1981, they released this debut EP on their own 'Blank Label' imprint. After the EP's distributor, Fresh, went out of business, owing money to Fall Out Records, Fall Out reissued the EP later in 1982. They released two 7Iinches in their early days and after the re-union they became more active in terms of albums. Three were made by 2016. Since then, it has been quiet around them. Enjoy the record!

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