• Vice Squad, formed in 1979, has evolved from their early punk roots to deliver pointed critiques of society and personal grievances. Their songs, such as ‘No Right Of Reply,’ showcase a mix of cynicism and defiance against critics. Despite a…

    Vice Squad | Stand Strong Stand Proud | (EMI) 1982
  • The Defects, a Belfast punk band, combines a light-hearted approach with a commitment to their music. Despite their growing fame, they reject the pop star label, favouring authentic punk values over superficial trends. They focus on strong performances, social commentary,…

    The Defects | Carry out Punk . . . On A Stretcher?
  • The contemporary music press described The Cure’s “Pornography” as a profound exploration of despair and futility, expertly capturing raw emotions from a terrifying place. Reviewers noted its intense cohesiveness and subjective nature, suggesting the album should be experienced as a…

    The Cure | Pornography | (Fiction) 1982
  • The Cure’s Brighton gig review highlights their evolution amidst challenging times, showcasing their unique blend of melancholy and aural aggression. Despite Robert Smith’s unclear lyrics, the band’s powerful unity and sound captivated the audience. While Smith appeared tired, the performance…

    The Cure | Gig Review | Brighton 1982
  • Infa-Riot, a punk band emerging in the 1980s, blends brash energy with a commitment to anti-racism amidst London’s evolving punk scene. They argue that the current recession fuels genuine punk resurgence, distinguishing themselves from both earlier punks and mainstream pop.…

    Infa-Riot | Still Out Of Order
  • Siouxsie And The Banshees captivated Japanese audiences during their first tour in April 1982, coinciding with the cherry blossoms’ brief bloom. The band’s performances evoked excitement, especially among young female fans, despite the language barrier. Their presence prompted discussions about…

    Siouxsie And The Banshees | In Japan
  • TV21, an Edinburgh band, faced struggles amidst the changing music scene of 1981, marked by their rock sound losing appeal as pop shifted towards disco. Despite setbacks, including single flops, they possess talent and promise showcased in their debut album,…

    TV21 | International Rock Rescue On The Go!
  • The Jam, under Paul Weller, emerged in the early 1980s as a significant force in music, utilising mod influences to bridge punk and rock. Their sound was marked by social anthems, yet Weller grappled with the burden of expectations from…

    The Jam | Gig Review | Fair Deal 1982
  • The Bluebells, a Glaswegian pop quintet, blend nostalgia with their jangly guitar sound and harmonies, reminiscent of ’60s music. Their recent demo has attracted attention from record labels, despite initial setbacks with Postcard due to their distinct style. The band…

    The Bluebells | Springtime For Bluebells
  • Echo & the Bunnymen reflect on their success during the early 1980s, pondering their place in the evolving music scene between pop and rock. Despite concerns regarding their relevance, the band embraces their identity, asserting the importance of authentic rock…

    Echo & the Bunnymen | You Can Take A White Rabbit Anywhere