Category: 80s Press
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Department S | Vaughn To Lose | The article describes Department S’s challenges during a soundcheck at Essex University, highlighting their frustration and the dynamics within the band. Despite their initial success with “Is Vic There?”, recent singles have not…
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Altered Images | Fun-filled Images | The article from Melody Maker discusses the band Altered Images, highlighting their carefree music and rejection of societal negativity. The writer appreciates their escapism and fun-loving spirit, contrasting it with the pretentiousness of other…
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Christmas On Earth Festival | Gig Review | Leeds 1981 | The Christmas On Earth Festival in Leeds, 1981, marked a significant revival of punk, contrasting sharply with the superficiality of 1977’s scene. The new punk embraces authenticity and rawness,…
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The Urban Dogs | Doggie Doings | The article discusses Charlie Harper, Knox, and the Urban Dogs, reflecting on their punk origins and current endeavors. It highlights the contrast between the past and present punk scene, expressing concerns about its…
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The Pretenders | Living With Headlines | The article features an interview with Chrissie Hynde and her band, the Pretenders, highlighting their rise to fame and unique musical dynamics. Hynde expresses her surprise at the band’s chemistry despite diverse backgrounds,…
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The Revillos | Fingers In The Dyke | The article details a lively account of the Revillos during a tour in Amsterdam, showcasing their unique style and music. Fay Fife’s strong personality contrasts with chaotic tour experiences, while the band…
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Blondie | Gig Review | Hammersmith Odeon, London 1980 | The review of Blondie’s concert at Hammersmith Odeon on January 19, 1980, highlights Clem Burke’s dynamic drumming over Debbie Harry’s elusive performance. While Harry captivates visually, Burke’s energetic contribution grounds…
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UK Subs | Gig Review | Music Machine, London 1980 | The UK Subs performed at the Music Machine in 1980, showcasing their new lineup with ex-User member Alvin Gibbs and ex-Cyanider Steve Roberts. The band delivered powerful performances of…
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David Bowie | Scary Monsters And Super Creeps | (RCA) 1980 | David Bowie’s album “Scary Monsters And Super Creeps” captures his evolution through a mix of paranoia and pop genius. The review highlights themes of societal struggle interwoven with…
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Tenpole Tudor | Beanpole Bop | Tudor, an energetic band likened to the Ramones, is poised for success, mixing playful performances with catchy tunes. Their live shows, featuring memorable songs like “Real Fun” and dynamic stage presence, suggest a bright…
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The Barracudas | ‘Cudas Go Folk Shock !!!! | The Barracudas, a band gaining fame, reflect on their unconventional musical path and experiences with EMI. They describe their sound as evolved from surf to folk-rock, emphasizing humor over seriousness. Despite…
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UK Subs | Brand New Age | (Gem) 1980 | The review of ‘Brand New Age’ emphasizes its connection to heavy metal while showcasing the evolution of the band. With tracks like “You Can’t Take It Anymore” and “Emotional Blackmail,”…
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UK Subs | Old Punks Never Lie | The article from Record Mirror discusses an interview with the punk band UK Subs, where the author expresses skepticism about their music despite the band’s energetic performance appeal. Lead singer Charlie Harper…
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The Pretenders | Talk Of The USA | The article highlights the rapid rise of the Pretenders in the American music scene, transitioning from a British band to a significant contender. Led by Chrissie Hynde, they emphasize broad appeal over…
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The Jam | Subway Survivors | The article recounts an exhilarating encounter with the band The Jam, illustrating a surreal moment when the author found himself amidst a crowd of enthusiastic fans after exiting a tube station. Through vivid imagery,…
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The Angelic Upstarts | All Washed Up | The article reflects on a struggling punk band, the Angelic Upstarts, highlighting their challenges with promotion and performance. Despite setbacks, lead singer Mensi expresses resilience and belief in their message against social…
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The Cure | Manhattan Interiors | The article reflects Phil Sutcliffe’s observations of The Cure during a visit to New York in 1980. It examines the band’s dynamics, insights into their music from the album “17 Seconds,” and the emotional…
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The Angelic Upstarts | Mensi Unleashed | A reminder of his pre-Upstart days is immortalised in ‘King Coal’ on the new album. Eager to talk about his latest opus, Mensi gives me a track-by-track breakdown on ‘We Gotta Get Out…
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The Purple Hearts | Beat That! | (Fiction) 1980 | The Purple Hearts’ debut album “Beat That!” showcases their punky modbeat style, blending classic teen themes with engaging songwriting from Rob Manton and Simon Stebbing. While the album includes strong…
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The Cramps | Invasion Of The Cramp Monsters | The article from NME discusses The Cramps and their unique blend of rockabilly and punk aesthetics. Lux Interior and Ivy Rorschach’s unconventional appearances evoke mixed reactions from the public, while they…
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Stiff Little Fingers | Suspect Devices | The article reflects on Stiff Little Fingers’ emergence from Belfast’s punk scene, detailing their journey from unrefined beginnings to chart success. It critiques their songwriting, management, and commercialization, particularly their handling of Northern…
