Tag: NME

  • In a 1982 NME interview, Paul Weller reflects on The Jam’s final statement, ‘Beat Surrender’, expressing a blend of optimism and realism in their music. He discusses his evolving songwriting style, critiques the music industry, and conveys his desire for…

    Paul Weller | The Return Of The Avenger | Part 2
  • In a December 1982 interview, Paul Weller reflects on the disbandment of The Jam, discussing his creative freedom and the pressures of commercial success. He emphasises the importance of integrity in music, critiques the music industry, and expresses a desire…

    Paul Weller | The Return Of The Avenger | Part 1
  • “The Days Of Wine And Roses” by The Dream Syndicate, released in 1982, showcases a distinctive sound reminiscent of Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground. The album explores deep emotional themes through powerful lyrics and harsh guitar arrangements, balancing inspiration…

    The Dream Syndicate | The Days Of Wine And Roses | (Ruby) 1982
  • “Chronic Town” by R.E.M. presents a vibrant, mysterious musical landscape characterised by evocative imagery and compelling melodies. The songs blend influences from the ’60s with modern pop sensibilities. Michael Stipe’s voice, both intimate and elusive, invites listeners into a world…

    R.E.M. | Chronic Town | (IRS) 1982
  • Although these ‘Children’ can claim no formal cult, no hierarchy or congregation (unlike Psychic TV) they still command the fealty of their covens. A loyalty that has pushed their current single ‘Into The Abyss’ into the upper echelons of the…

    The Sex Gang Children | Initiation Rights
  • The Ace Cinema in Brixton hosted a weekend concert featuring two unique pop bands. Weekend delivered a simplistic, dreamy sound, while The Undertones, led by Feargal Sharkey, offered a lively performance filled with classic hits and new material. Their blend…

    The Undertones | Gig Review | Brixton 1982
  • The Damned embark on a chaotic tour, showcasing their evolution beyond punk with vibrant performances and eccentric personalities. Amidst on-stage antics, tensions between band members, particularly between Captain Sensible and Rat Scabies, reveal deeper reflections on fame, creativity, and personal…

    The Damned | Damned & Deliver
  • Sure, ever since the ’60s garage bands have all sounded alike —mean, macho and dirty thanks to the sax, Farfisa and fuzztone guitar — but then that’s because, as Lester Bangs succinctly put it, they offer “20 years of rock…

    The Milkshakes | Shake Some Action
  • Chris Bohn reflects on Orange Juice’s decline as a pop group, tracing their journey from initial optimism to disillusionment. Edwyn Collins expresses frustration over being pigeonholed and the criticism they face for not producing expected hits. The band attempts to…

    Orange Juice | From A Postcard To A Postage Stamp
  • Syd Barrett, the original Pink Floyd guitarist, is now a reclusive figure living with his mother in Cambridge, reflecting on his troubled past and mental health challenges. An article reveals his life post-music, highlighting lingering symptoms of schizophrenia and a…

    Syd Barrett | The Madcap Tracked Down In Cambridge
  • Southern Death Cult, a Bradford band, critiques centralised power in London while embodying the post-punk spirit. Through their art, they challenge societal norms and speak to youth disenchantment, as exemplified by Tracey, a fan seeking connection. Their message resonates beyond…

    Southern Death Cult | On The Peace Warpath
  • AMID THE BRIGHT motes of fairy dust caught floating in the spotlights of 1982’s Top Of The Pops, the recurring shadow cast by the murky presence of The Stranglers has been one of the year’s more bizarre chart events.

    The Stranglers | L’Eminence
  • In an NME interview, John Lydon reflects on his film debut alongside Harvey Keitel and discusses Public Image Limited’s (PIL) activities in New York. He shares his experiences with weight loss, views on American culture, and the challenges of acting.…

    John Lydon | Some Mother’s Do Have ‘Em
  • “Rose had the wonderful name for a group from James Kirk, and she just had to do something with it, so she said to me, Right Jill, friend from punky days . .

    Strawberry Switchblade | The Lethal Charms Of The . . .
  • Captain Sensible reflects on the absurdity of his Number One hit “Happy Talk” amidst a gloomy political landscape in 1982. Balancing irony and humour, he critiques mainstream music while expressing affection for his band, The Damned. He emphasises the importance…

    Captain Sensible | The Captain
  • Chron Gen, a punk band with aspirations of fame and fortune, reflects on their journey from humble beginnings to a changing sound. Amid criticisms of their debut album, they express a desire to evolve beyond traditional punk themes. Their new…

    Chron Gen | What Time Is The Gravy Train Due Around Here?
  • In an insightful interview, Bryan Ferry discusses his music, particularly focusing on Roxy Music’s ‘Avalon’. He reflects on his image, the nature of artistry versus entertainment, and the complexities of fame. Despite his success, he grapples with shyness and self-criticism,…

    Bryan Ferry | In A Lonely Place
  • Amrik Rai discusses the evolution of Anti-Pasti, a punk band emerging from Derby. The article explores their transition from youthful naivety to a more mature sound and lyrical depth, addressing anti-war themes. The band aims to educate their audience while…

    Anti-Pasti | No Escape From Twisted Reality
  • The Southern Death Cult, a young band from Bradford, aims to challenge stereotypes while navigating cultural identity through their music. Combining powerful lyrics and intricate instrumentation, they critique Americanisation and assert their distinctiveness in the music scene. With their own…

    Southern Death Cult | Cult-ural Meltdown
  • The ANWL sealed their reputation in the new punk elite by outdoing The Damned in the gross overkill after-gig party tricks when Winston stuck a carrot up his anal passage and ate it along with a lump of excrement (source…

    Anti-Nowhere League | Animalisms
  • Modern English aims to define their unique identity amidst challenges in the music industry, often mislabelled alongside bands like Joy Division. Their new album, ‘After The Snow’, seeks broader appeal through polished, accessible sounds while maintaining artistic integrity. The band…

    Modern English | The Language Of Compromise