Category: 80s Press
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Talk Talk, a new pop band from rural England, is recording their debut album and preparing for their first single, ‘IVIirrorman’, with producer Colin Thurston. Featuring a unique, guitar-less lineup, they aim to prioritise melody and songwriting over mere arrangements,…
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The Hoodoo Gurus, led by Dave Faulkner, are significant figures in Australian music, known for their unique blend of pop and rock. Their new album, “Mars Needs Guitars!”, reflects a shift towards more serious themes while maintaining exuberance. Despite challenges…
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The review highlights The Jam’s final single, “Dig The New Breed,” praising its significant evolution from youthful anthems to deeper societal issues. It emphasizes the band’s enduring legacy and style amidst a challenging musical landscape. The review reflects on memorable…
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The Sisters of Mercy, emerging amidst the post-punk scene, blend heavy metal with innovative drum machine sounds, presenting a distinct take on rock. They challenge the notion of rock’s irrelevance, delivering powerful performances that provoke varied audience reactions. Their singles…
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Dave McCullough explores the Kitchenware label, highlighting bands Hurrah! and The Daintees. He discusses their unique styles, optimism, and independence from major labels. Both bands are marked by genuine talent and creativity, with Hurrah! exuding pop vibrancy and The Daintees…
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Tony Mitchell interviews Talk Talk in Los Angeles, revealing band members initially wary and defensive due to past press treatment, particularly comparisons to Duran Duran. As the conversation progresses, camaraderie develops, uncovering their desire for serious recognition. The band reflects…
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Chris Bohn discusses Matt Johnson’s solo project, The The, examining the internal conflicts and self-doubts he faces despite his success. Johnson emphasizes the flexibility of his work under The The, his introspective yet uplifting music style, and the challenges of…
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Felt, a band known for their perfectionism, discusses their new single “My Face Is On Fire,” highlighting its unique sound and their dedication to high-quality music. Despite limited commercial success, they remain optimistic about their future, aspiring to stand the…
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Tim Sommer discusses the influence of Jello Biafra and the Dead Kennedys in the American punk and hardcore music scene of the early 1980s. While acknowledging Biafra’s significant impact and popularity, Sommer critiques the trend of imitation among younger bands,…
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The The | The Devil in Mr Johnson | Matt Johnson, known as THE THE, critiques the music industry while sharing the evolution of his band. After years of struggling, he embraces his individuality and strives for authentic expression. Johnson’s…
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Aztec Camera | Aztecs Inca Contract At Last | The article discusses Aztec Camera’s transition from Postcard Records to Rough Trade, highlighting their new single “Pillar To Post” and upcoming album “High Land, Hard Rain.” It reflects on the band’s…
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The Go-Betweens | The Gentle Three-Headed Monster | The Go-Betweens, alongside The Birthday Party and Laughing Clowns, showcase their distinct Australian sound at a London venue. Known for their deceptively understated yet passionately charged music, the band, comprising Grant McLennan,…
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The Pastels | Colour Me Pop | The Pastels, discussed in a 1982 NME article, offer a refreshing take on punk, blending lightheartedness with a hint of nostalgia. Fronted by newcomer Stephen McRobbie and cynical guitarist Brian Superstar, their debut…
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The Lords Of The New Church | Altared States | The Lords Of The New Church, featuring punk veterans, aim to redefine their musical identity amidst skepticism about their past. Their debut album reflects deeper themes of truth and societal…
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Lene Lovich | A Slav Unto Herself | Lovich returns to the spotlight after 18 months to star in a musical about Mata Hari, co-written with Les Chappell. Despite past challenges and evolving music trends, she remains a unique voice…
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The Ramones | Ramones Stay Home | The Ramones express their thoughts on change within their music and the punk genre, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their original style. They reflect on their unexpected success, interactions with Phil Spector, and…
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The Birthday Party | Obsessive, Deadpan, Moribund, Seasick . . . | The Birthday Party, a band known for their chaotic energy, faces significant changes as they lose their drummer, Phill Calvert, and prepare to relocate to Berlin for a…
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The Clash | Armed Combat | Part 2 | Joe Strummer reflects on the enduring relevance and struggles of The Clash, discussing their punk roots and the challenges of staying creative in the music industry. He critiques the Rolling Stones…
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The Clash | Armed Combat | Part 1 | The Clash, rejuvenated and relaxed, are achieving success in America, performing classic hits nostalgically yet with renewed vigor. Joe Strummer reflects on their evolving identity amidst struggles, the significance of live…
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The Damned | The Damned Don’t Cry | The article delves into an interview with members of the punk band The Damned, focusing on their chaotic nature and perspectives on music trends, particularly synthesizers. Rat and the Captain express frustration…
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Siouxsie And The Banshees | Sioux Silenced | Sioux of Siouxsie And The Banshees received alarming news regarding her voice, requiring her to cease singing until 1983 due to laryngitis. Her vocal cords are severely swollen, and she may need…
