As many of my friends and readers will know by now, I’m a dedicated music fan. I’ll happily espouse my views on whatever I’m listening to, what’s new, what’s good, what’s not (the latter more often in person than online!), if there’s a discussion about music generally, I’m happy to be involved.
Which is why amodelofcontrol.com exists, really. I started out writing because I wanted an outlet for my love of music, and my DJing started out similarly, in that I wanted somewhere to play what I listened to – as always, if you can’t see something being done that you’d like yourself, do it yourself, right?
Tuesday Ten: 308: #1 Crush
Playlists
Tuesday Ten: reader submissions
And while I’ve become a fairly serious fan of a number of artists – and I guess Seabound and the litany of other projects Frank M. Spinath has been involved in probably tops my list, where I own pretty much everything he’s done on CD, have seen him live five or six times, and he remains the only person in our “scene” where I was a little starstruck meeting him, to my shame! – I’ve never passed into outright fandom, where I’ll follow a band to any location, buy every related item possible, and spend substantial sums of money doing so.
To put it another way, I’ve never seen one band more than sixteen times (and that band was Blindness, who played often enough in North London to make that an easy figure to reach), and instead I’ve seen hundreds and hundreds of different bands. For me, variety, and discovering new things, is my jam.
But I’m well aware many people think differently. So to that end, I put out a request for friends and readers who are Serious Fans to get in touch, so that I could talk to them about their experiences with one band. The response was overwhelming, actually, and everyone who responded to the subsequent questions I sent are featured below. There were a couple more I would have liked to have included, but time got in the way, but I may add them in later.
I’ve had stories of people who have seen bands hundreds of times, own hundreds of releases, know the bands personally, have travelled mind-boggling distances just to see them. Some bands have changed lives, all have enriched them. I’ve learned new things about people I thought I knew well, and the stories are all fascinating – if ever you needed evidence of the life-changing abilities of music, this is it.
So here are my reader’s stories. Some bands you may know, some you may not. But the stories are all relatable in some way, even if the music doesn’t work for me. And finally, thanks to everyone who took the time to submit – some of these must have taken some time to write! (In general, by the way, I’ve left the posts as I had them submitted, save for some formatting and adding in links, and thanks to those who provided a photo or two to use).
By the way, in fascinating timing, XTC were on 6Music yesterday talking about just this subject around an anthology of fanzines about the band, and an XTC convention in Swindon this coming weekend…
How and when did you discover your band?
So, me = massive Killing Joke fan since 1989. I was in a (crap) band and was 18. We were all getting each other into new bands and looking for new music to expand our horizons. I would regularly plunder a local record store and one day I found Killing Joke’s first album. It was the cover (the amended pic of East Germans climbing over the Berlin Wall) that drew me in. I had heard of the band a bit (especially Love Like Blood) but this cover didn’t really go with what I had heard. I was intrigued and bought it immediately. That was it, hooked. In the next few weeks myself and the rest of the band hoovered up all the KJ vinyl we could get.
How much of their music do you own?
Weirdly I now do not own a single piece of KJ vinyl or anything else. I sold my vinyl collection off about 4 years ago. I had literally carried it round Europe even though I had not had a record player since 1998. Sold it to someone I know very well who says I can buy it back any time. Was a bit heart wrenching but really what was the point? Of course then vinyl comes back in fashion but hey.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I’ve seen KJ over 400 times. I had a phase of starting to like a band just after they had either split or gone on hiatus, KJ was no exception. They were a bit in the doldrums IMHO in 89 but when Extremities came out – BAM, the old fire and brimstone KJ were back and I lapped up every tour date remotely possible. The very first time was at Leeds UnI in 1991. The opening bars of Money is Not Our God sent people crazy…and I was promptly headbutted (by accident!) and in a bit of a mess. Infatuated at this point. I would go to every tour I could, every gig, every festival I could go to see them. I last saw them in 2015 at Rock City but the highlights for me were the 91 tour and also 2004 when they were promoting their (2nd) self titled album.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
What is so special? They are angry, articulate and make incredibly passionate music which really resonates with me. I am an ex-goth/punk and I was always drawn to the lyrics (Dead Kennedys are another of my favourites) and attitude. They have a huge following (The Gatherers) and I have made some friends on the way (especially in the 90s) but nah, it’s something personal. I’ve been single, married, divorced, been to several continents, seen beautiful things and horrible things in equal measures but KJ have been a constant throughout.
*One* favourite song?
FUCK that is a hard question. Yes, I do think Love Like Blood is a classic but it has to be The Wait, first song I learnt to play bass for.
Sean G
(amodelofcontrol.com: Coil are one of those bands that I’ve had a passing interest in over the years, but only started to dig deeper in the last few. This article from The Quietus is actually a good pointer to start with, if you ever wondered, but I’ll leave the rest to Adam)
How and when did you discover your band?
Back in the early 90s when I was 10 or 11, I was at my cousin’s house for Thanksgiving. He was listening to Skinny Puppy and I said I liked it “cuz it was scary” and he said “You should hear Coil”. I don’t know why, but that stuck with me. It’s not like I could go down to the corner record store and buy a Coil CD. When the NIN mixes by Coil came out on various EPs and such a few years later, it expanded my love for this band, even though i’d never actually heard them. But I felt drawn to them.
After my parents split up my mom and I moved into this apartment complex and I met this kid i’d go smoke pot with from down the hall. One day I dropped by his apartment to see if he wasn’t home, but his mom was and noticed my NIN shirt and she asked what other music I liked. I said some bands and Coil and she was all “oh wow you know Coil? I love them! What albums do you have?” and I confessed didn’t have any, so she sent me home with her original CD copy of Gold Is The Metal (With The Broadest Shoulders) and my life has never been the same. It was EXACTLY what I thought it would be, and I loved every second of it. It’s still my favorite too.
How much of their music do you own?
I started collecting Coil stuff right after that initial exposure. Mail ordering, record shop digging, etc. At one point I had everything they put out on CD…all the boxsets, all the various pressings, stuff I ordered directly from them…everything. Eventually I sold it all to fund the purchase of a modular synthesizer, but I’ve recollected a lot of it. This time I went vinyl though. So I have at least one copy of every release they did on vinyl, including one of those insanely rare Musick To Play In The Dark volume 1 LP’s. I’ve got some of the CD’s i’ve just happened upon, I still have my original Backwards watch from the Time Machines era…I also have a lot of other stuff, shirts and posters and stickers and such. And in a really crazy story, through either magick or divination or astronomical odds-defying luck, I ended up with the original Love’s Secret Domain demo tape, which I took into the studio and lovingly transferred and put up for all to hear on archive.org.
Digitally I have just about everything. Almost all the recorded live shows, complication tracks, vinyl only tracks…every single version of Backwards except for the original multitracks, and a whole bunch of stuff from the archives I’m not allowed to share.
How many times have you seen the band live?
Zero. And it’s a real bummer. When Coil came and played Convergence in New York City in August of 2001, I sent a message out to the Coil mailing list about selling a bunch of my music gear and Coil CD collection to fund a trip out to see the show. Peter ‘Sleazy’ Christopherson, who by this point i’d been emailing with off and on, sent me a nice message saying it was really sweet but do NOT sell all my stuff to come see them, because they were doing a stripped down show and were planning a tour, so “don’t worry Adam, we’ll see you soon :-)” When I finally met Peter at the Chicago TG show I mentioned this to him and softly shrugged and said sorry, heh.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
I think it’s their sound, the thought they put behind everything, the multiple layers, and completely uncompromising aesthetic that I glommed on to. They were some of the first openly gay musicians i’d ever heard, and their honesty and integrity really hit home. They made it ok to be whoever and whatever you want.
And I absolutely feel a part of a community. I’ve had the pleasure of interacting with past band members, friends, fans, and was able to contribute to some of the archival works that have come out, like the Threshold Archives CDs from last year as a QA/QC guy and the new edition of England’s Hidden Reverse in submitting scans of stickers and such. And I still get notes from people thanking me for making that Side Effects Of Life cassette available.
*One* favourite song?
Paradisiac from Gold Is the Metal (With the Broadest Shoulders). This song will always and forever transfer me to that first time I heard this album, slightly high lying down on a grassy hill in the sun with my eyes closed and that sort of dull orange/red color of the insides of my eyelids with my headphones on.
Adam Vavrick is as well known in Chicago for his beer expertise as he is for is Coil knowledge.
How and when did you discover your band?
I think I was about 19 when I discovered Low, after a random review of Trust in the Sunday Times sparked my interest. I was immediately hooked; it was winter and their rich, layered sound combined with Mimi Parker’s delicate and soulful voice was unlike anything I’d heard before and perfect for cold London evenings. It was only later that I discovered she and Alan Sparhawk were a) Mormon and b) from Duluth, which I think accounts for the hopeful melancholy they’ve perfected. Since then they’ve developed more grit and hired someone unexpected producers, but the vein of humanistic spiritualism has persisted, and I think that’s something very special.
How much of their music do you own?
I own all Low’s records, including A Lifetime of Temporary Relief which is a phenomenal collection of often funereal B-Sides. I don’t think I’d have developed an intense love of post-rock without this album, though Low never veer far from Shoegaze (a label I’m not massively certain they appreciate).
How many times have you seen the band live?
I’ve seen the band play about 15 times since I discovered them, which doesn’t include the Retribution Gospel Choir side project. Having been championed in the UK by John Peel, they have a lot of time for the UK.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
It amused me to discover that John Waters is also a fan, having seen him appear in a queue for one of their Baltimore gigs. I remember around 2005 being a difficult year for the band, and it’s been interesting to watch – if not their mellowing since then – then at least their continually increasing comfort live. Getting to talk to Mr Sparhawk in the Cargo bar was one of the great moments of my 20s when great moments were few and far between, and I cherish that very brief connection. I haven’t met many people as evangelical about the band as I am, but you usually see the same core fan base at every gig. It would blasphemous to call it a cult following, but once the music resonates with you, it’s almost impossible to extricate yourself from the thrill of hearing it at Union Chapel.
*One* favourite song?
My tastes have gradually hardened as I’ve grown older, but this has done nothing to diminish my love for the band – I even have a Low-themed tattoo – and I will be bereft when the time comes that there is no more music to make. If I was to recommend one song it would be Nothing but Heart. It will either leave you cold, or never leave you.
Drew B
How and when did you discover your band?
Frank Turner fronted post-hardcore band Million Dead in the early 2000s, who were one of those bands (like Hell Is For Heroes or Hundred Reasons) who seemed to play absolutely everywhere, all the time. After they split in 2005 he started playing solo acoustic shows, a friend sent me a copy of Back In The Day, I went to see him play in the bar over the road (Junktion 7 – RIP), and then again, and again, and… here we are.
How much of their music do you own?
All the albums and all but one of the Eps in physical form. Absolutely everything in digital form, including all the old Million Dead stuff, side projects like Möngöl Hörde, collaborative stuff, covers, and everything he’s ‘featured on’.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I have lost count, at some point I’ll go through my Livejournal and work it out, but including support slots and festival appearances it’s over sixty.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
Cliché time! An awful lot of Frank’s stuff is incredibly relatable, especially as a white English guy in his mid-thirties. That’s it, really. Slices of my life in four minute folk-punk songs. There is a really active fan community, partially because of his intense touring schedule, but I’m not really a part of it. Nice bunch of people to be around at the shows, though.
*One* favourite song?
As with any favourite, this is subject to change depending on mood, time of day, weather… but you asked for one, so one it is… (Imagine for yourself at this point me spending half an hour typing and deleting different tracks…)
Vital Signs.
John S is a DJ and photographer
How and when did you discover your band?
I must have been about seventeen when I first heard New Model Army. I had a penfriend who sent me a cassette with a bunch of tracks from the Thunder and Consolation album (with some Levellers and some Joolz Denby on the B-side to fill it up). In my first term at university I had a small premium bond win and used it to buy an army surplus greatcoat and a ticket to see NMA at the Hummingbird in Birmingham.
How much of their music do you own?
I don’t really think of myself as a hardcore fan – I had a boyfriend in my twenties who had actually followed them around Europe on tour, and he was far from alone in that level of devotion – but over the years I gradually bought more and more of their music and have kept on and on wanting to see them live, when other bands lost my interest over time, no matter how much I loved them at the start. Looking through my shelves, I have fourteen NMA albums, i.e. most of the studio albums and a few compilations of rarities or live performances.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I have no idea how many times I’ve seen them live, but it’s a rare year that I don’t, and I’ve never seen them do a bad show.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
I guess it’s something about the combination of passion and intelligence, aggression and tenderness, anger and hope. I wouldn’t say it’s like being part of a community on a day to day basis but, during those songs where the whole audience – right to the back of the venue – seems to be singing along, it does seem that they capture something we all feel.
*One* favourite song?
Asking anyone who loves music to name just one favourite song by any band is pretty hard, but I do have a particular soft spot for one track which doesn’t get a lot of live play (I think I’ve only heard them do it once), A Liberal Education.
Claire M
How and when did you discover your band?
The first time hearing Underworld was back in 1997. Having lived in various places and growing up in the 90s I was introduced to a varity of musical styles, scenes and strong musical communities. However most of my music interest came from my family, the wonderful benefits of being the baby in the family.
If you know me I always love bringing up this wonderfully etched memory of how I first came by Underworld back in the day. I was only six years old at the time and we were living a few minutes outside of the city of Chicago in a weird cul de sac. Weird is perfectly fine with me. It was around eightish on a summer night I just woke up from bed to get a glass of water in the kitchen I had to walk past a group of my sister’s friends as they were watching a movie. My second oldest sister was having a sleep over at our house with her friends back in the day. Cara (as she goes by nowadays). Now with cup in hand just standing in the kitchen entrance and hearing in the back from my sister “What are you doing awake?”
I was about to say something, then I hear Underworld’s Cowgirl coming from the TV and entranced as my eyes are glued to the tube I remember the song in the background and in this one part of the movie there is a guy walking down what looks to be a highway or street and everything around him is moving incredibly fast and he is walking normally towards the viewer. Bear in mind I had no idea what this song was at the time and no recollection of the movie either. To be honest I’m not even sure if it was a movie or a music video or even someone’s art project whatever it was seriously changed me into the person I am today the song I mean. Back then I really didn’t have any way to detect songs (nowadays people can hold their phones up using shazam or some song detection app) all I had back then was memory I would remember the exact beat of the song and any form of vocals along with it. Anyway the next day I ask my sister what was that song and she wouldn’t tell me for so long. Couple years past and I hear the song again while with my family at The Alley I ask my sister immediately “do you know the song that’s playing right now” and she said “oh that’s Underworld’s Cowgirl” once that we finish up at the alley and sitting in the car with a huge smile on my face that now I finally know the name of the band and the song.
Back in the day the first album I got on my tenth birthday was Dubnobasswithmyheadman from my mom. Man, I listened the hell out of that album, and still do to this day. I remember that my sister Cara had Second Toughest in the Infants and sometimes when she was either hanging out with her friends or at school, my brother and I would search through her CD Case. There was some fantastic stuff in there.
How much of their music do you own?
Digitally I can confidently say that I have half of Underworld’s catalog on my computer from various purchases made on their website at Underworldlive.com, amazon and alternative sources. Anyone remember napster in the day?
Now on CD format I have almost a quarter of Underworld’s stuff (why I’m saying “a quarter” is because if anyone checks out Underworld on Discogs, you’ll know what I mean), well to be fair I have all of Underworld’s main albums with the exception of Oblivion with Bells. I have a couple of EP’s, a few remix albums and of course the glorious Everything, Everything on CD and DVD format. Though don’t get me started on the beautifully remastered albums Dubnobasswithmyheadman, Second Toughest in the Infants and recently released Beaucoup Fish. If I had money for those, man….Other than that most of the CD’s I’ve found was from record shops from all over the US, ordered from various countries and states within the US and with frequent visits to the friendly neighborhood record shop Reckless Records. They must hate me there. I’m still to this day hunting for any and every bit of Underworld. Record shops beware!
How many times have you seen the band live?
I have seen this band only twice so far. Once in 2013 live at Monegros Desert Festival in Spain and recently this year 2017 at the insanely beautiful Alexandra Palace (“Ally Pally”) London’s own legendary venue. Both times have been incredibly unique and words cannot truly describe how they are live. The first time seeing Underworld with 40,000+ people in Spain with hardly any Spanish to my name in the desert of Fraga, Spain was incredible. The setlist that consisted of a rare version of Push Upstairs and Between Stars. Songs from other albums such as Always loved a film, Pearl’s Girl, Everybody Jack, Spikee, Scribble and a rare intro to King of Snake! The setlist blew me away. what made the show even more special was when Karl said in spanish “Thank you Monegros!” and giving thanks who operated behind the knobs both Rick Smith and Darren Price. I still remember when Karl pointed and said “Thanks to this bloke….Darren!” I think my heart stopped and at the same time I wanted Underworld to perform longer. The second time was in Muswell Hill at the legendary Alexandra Palace. Funny enough being in Chicago and noticed on Underworld’s website that they are performing at Ally Pally, me sitting there like “I Have to purchase a ticket now before it sells out!” (A little history, Underworld Performed a rare and unique set in 1998 at Ally Pally in which that being their first time and this year being the second time they have been there.)
With great anticipation I get everything ready to fly out to have my mind blown again. Underworld not only performed for what felt like 3 hours but Rick Smith DJed a rare set of songs that have not been performed lived via Underworld or just performed in general. Really the sold out show was perfect for those who have seen Underworld previously and were left wanting more. The setlist was beautiful for both the DJ portion and the show, loved the performers too. While being in the sea of 10,000+ people I met a incredible abundance of people not only there but when I was in London too, and seeing
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
Underworld, the band who embraces life, art, ao creative beyond imagine and to me are incredibly influential and life changing. As a artist they have driven me to come as who I am, to show my freakflag loud and proud, To be confident, show true colors, to be respectful to others, to be honest to myself and everyone i’m around. I’ve always looked at Underworld as part of the Industrial community, still do. Being apart of this community I’ve noticed that this band brings people together and shows indiviuality among those in it. Hell, I can mention Underworld and most of the people I know love that band and others say it’s not their cup of tea which that’s no problem at all. The community Underworld developed welcomes those with open arms and want those to embrace, live and come as you are.
*One* favourite song?
Now comes the hardest part, my favorite song. It would be obvious to say Cowgirl or even Born Slippy to be honest anything and everything that Underworld has done, touched and remixed is my favorite. if I had to choose a song I would say Spoonman. Whhhhoooaaa. Bonus Song, mind, I would say is Stagger.
Daniel M
How and when did you discover your band?
When I first went to university and had my own (dialup) internet connection so I could download stuff without risking the wrath of my parents for hogging the phone line! I had listened to some J-pop and J-rock before going to unI so I went looking for more and found a website with some random songs recommended by the site owner. Most of them were Visual KeI things that weren’t really my thing but there were two B’z songs on there, which I downloaded and loved instantly. I discovered CD Japan and picked up the singles of both songs, plus a compilation album, and it’s gone on from there.
How much of their music do you own?
I have pretty much all of their older albums, several singles, a music video album, and a couple of bootlegs! I’ve also got some of lead singer KoshI Inaba’s solo albums and singles. Getting their albums is expensive and I have to go through specialist retailers to get them so it’s a more laborious process than following any of my favourite Western artists, especially during the times when I wasn’t earning much money.
How many times have you seen the band live?
Never! It’s one of my dreams and they tour domestically quite often, but getting to see them live in Japan is difficult if you’re not resident there. Pre-sale tickets only get offered to members of the fan club, and to join the fan club you have to have a Japanese address. Basically if I were to go see them live I’d have to have a few grand ready to drop on short notice – the ticket alone would come to a couple hundred quid, then there’s flights, accommodation, subsistence etc. They occasionally do “international” tours but those only cover the US and Canada. Though admittedly that would be much easier (and probably cheaper) than trying to see them in Japan!
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
I guess a big part of it is that I discovered them at the same time I got my first taste of independence, so to an extent I feel like I’ve had them all through my adult life. They have so many songs that encapsulate so many moods and feelings, even if you don’t fully understand the lyrics. There’s also a great deal of technical prowess, both from KoshI (who has incredible vocal range) and guitarist/songwriter Tak Matsumoto, which makes their songs really exciting to listen to.
Not sure where it would fit best to talk about my “pilgrimage” so I’ll put it here! I heard that Koshi’s mother runs a cosmetics store in his hometown of Tsuyama, and that she regularly welcomes fans there. I promised myself I would visit one day, and in 2009 I did, armed with postcards from Bath as a gift for Mrs Inaba. Tsuyama is a fairly quiet area, and when I got to the station, I discovered I had to travel even further out to Higashi-Tsuyama, a tiny unmanned station in the middle of nowhere! Funnily enough, there was a record store near the station so I went in, planning to ask for directions, but picked up the newest single and an album while I was there. How the girl at the counter kept from laughing when I asked for directions, I don’t know – I must have looked like a crazy fan! Anyway, I eventually found the place down a series of small residential streets, but didn’t really know what to do when I got in. The assistant must have taken pity on me as she asked if I would like to meet Mrs Inaba. She was delighted to meet a British person and gave me a tour of the town, showing me Koshi’s old high school and taking me to the cafe her other son owns. She introduced me to her friends and I spent the afternoon explaining where I came from – including drawing a rough map showing where Bath was in relation to London, Manchester (because of the Rolling Stones) and Liverpool (because of the Beatles). Before I left at the end of the day she gave me an assortment of small pieces of memorabilia, one of which is a paper coaster-like thing with Koshi’s signature on it, and some snacks that she picked out from the cafe. She was really sweet and I sent her some English tea when I got home to say thanks, which I hope she enjoyed.
I’m not really part of any community. I have lots of friends who like Japanese music but very few of them know or like B’z, which is odd since they’re the biggest-selling band in Japan. So it’s always been a relatively solitary thing for me to enjoy. I’ve spoken to other (usually American) fans online but have never felt like joining the communities long-term, possibly because I’m so used to it being My Thing that I enjoy by myself.
*One* favourite song?Very difficult question! There are so many and I love 99% of them! Since I can’t decide which one is my absolute favourite I will nominate Samayoeru AoI Dangan, since that was the first song of theirs I listened to and it’s what inspired me to seek out more of their music.
Leah H
How and when did you discover your band?
I discovered Engelbert in the late 70’s. Before that a friend’s mom used to listen to him and I used to make fun of his name. Then one day in 1976 I heard the song After The Lovin’ then all bets were off. I was hooked.
How much of their music do you own?
How much music do I own. Every record and CD, that he has released – about 60-something.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I have seen Engelbert live at least 60 times. First time I saw him live was 1983 when I won tickets to see him in NYC.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
What makes him so special is his songs. They speak from the heart. They have meaning and substance. He is also an all around good guy. I was lucky enough to meet him several times after a show. He appreciates his fans and knows he would not be where he is now if not for them.
I do feel I am part of a community. I have met so many people through his music. Besides all the people will still meet. He will be in Vegas in September and I’m already planning a friends meet and greet lunch for people I know and people I don’t.
*One* favourite song?
One favorite song there are so many. But I have to say, I Never Said Goodbye. Makes you realize life is to short and never miss the opportunity to tell your significant other you love them everyday.
Wendy Sontag
How and when did you discover your band?
Was invited to a gig by my old schoolmate in 1984 (aged 17 yrs). His mum was friends with the wife of the bands’ coach driver so our tickets were free. We were sitting in the stalls and, seeing/feeling the raw energy of Dave Vanian from “up in the Gods” is something that stuck with me forever. Until now, a much underestimated defining point in my life.
How much of their music do you own?
I have all the Damned’s studies albums on vinyl up until Anything (1986). I also have vinyl copies of several live and best of compilations such as Best of the Damned (1981), Live Shepperton (1982), Damned But Not Forgotten (1985), Not the Captain’s Birthday Party? (1986), Final Damnation (1989) and Light at the End of the Tunnel (1987). One or two singles but mostly albums. I then went on the get CD copies of Phantasmagoria (1985), Light at the End of the Tunnel (1987) and more recently, Smash It Up: The Anthology 1976-1987 which is essentially the first five albums – Damned, Damned, Damned (1976), Music For Pleasure (1977), Machine Gun Etiquette (1979), The Black Album (1981) and Strawberries (1982) plus selected post-1984 tracks – combined.
How many times have you seen the band live?
Dozens; 30-40 I reckon.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
The Damned always give a good show but more importantly are unique. First, they hold a special place as punk pioneers (first ever punk single, first ever punk album). Second, they are eclective was another until he left the band in 1996). Third, they have a special relationship with their ever-loyal fan-base. Finally, I do (did) always like a good, no-holds barred mosh!
*One* favourite song?
It’s a toss-up between Fan Club and of course New Rose, both from the album Damned, Damned, Damned (1976).
Paul R
How and when did you discover your band?
I’ve always been very active on the local music scene – as a fan – and went to a small local gig in the back room of a pub venue waaay back in 2006 I think. The Chapman Family were on the bill and it was their second only gig. I’d heard from a friend that was at their debut gig that they were “awful but there’s something there” so I paid close attention…and he wasn’t wrong! On both counts.
How much of their music do you own?
I own everything they’ve recorded, as far as I’m aware. I was such a keen early supporter that their singer, Kingsley, used to send me stuff in the early days. Plus the guy who photographed them the most had a bunch of additional recordings that he shared with me.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I saw them 72 times in total. It would have been a lot more but for a car crash (on the way to see them!) that stopped me following one of their later tours.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
The most difficult question…what’s so special? It’s almost impossible to put into words. From day one my response to them was visceral, they hit me like a sledgehammer. As time went on, I realised that as a live act they could barely be bettered. When on form, they were the greatest band you’d ever see; when not on form they were the worst! A big part of the reason for so many repeat gigs was to catch that one-gig-in-a-dozen or so where they went stratospheric and melted the brain. Over their 7 years together they saw me through some of the biggest events in my life: getting married, getting divorced; setting up a business and then losing that business; falling in love all over again after a 21 year absence with the man who stole my heart when I was very young – they truly were that cliché: ‘the soundtrack to my life’. No band breaking up has ever affected me like theirs did – I almost went into mourning!
Gigging (and music in general) has always been a thing I’ve done for myself first and foremost. However, through The Chapman Family I’ve met and become friends with a load of people I’d never have encountered otherwise; not just locally but around England, Scotland and even Germany. All of us who like the band loved them – it’s like a club of ‘superfans’. They’re a band who inspire devotion and to this day all those fans will still tell you about their favourite Chapmans moment or gig and will still have them as one of their best bands of al time.
*One* favourite song?
Finally…one favourite song? An impossible question! The early noise & anger of Kids? The brevity and aggression of All Fall? The revelation of the Chapmans go pop with Anxiety (cool video for that too)? The anguish of This is England? Or perhaps the one that always catches me by surprise and that I have no explanation for its effect on me: Sound of the Radio? Yeah…I think that’s got to be the one…some of the best and most emotional live moments have happened during that song. For example when, at DV8Fest, all the electrics and lights failed during their performance of it and the crowd wouldn’t let it go, chanting the refrain: ‘one more beat, one more beat, one more beat of my heart’ until the problem was fixed and the band had to return to finish it…else there’d most likely have been a riot! But ask me tomorrow and you’ll get a different answer and a different anecdote!
So…there you have it. Not exactly concise or simple but my relationship with music has never been thus. Hope you can glean something from this jumble of nonsense. And now, at half one in the morning, I’m off to play Burn Your Town very loudly indeed…on vinyl, natch.
Gabrielle S
How and when did you discover your band?
I’d heard of The Fall when I was at sixth form college, one of my friends in sociology class’s brother played guitar for them. And I must have heard songs by them on John Peel’s show but I first properly heard them and then started listening to them avidly myself when introduced to songs like Leave The Capitol and Prole Art Threat from the Slates EP and then Bend Sinister and This Nations Saving Grace by a friend a couple of years later at university.
I still have some of the recordings he made for me of their albums on cassette. As soon as I had the money I went out and bought copies of my own.
How much of their music do you own?
Quite a lot I think, sadly a burglary in the late 80’s relieved me of most of my vinyl 12-inches of Fall material but I have since replaced the ones I could. Sadly I’ve not been able to replace the green vinyl 12 inch of C.R.E.E.P.. I haven’t got any bootlegs, but I have got most of their studio albums (haven’t got a copy of their latest but have listened to it via youtube) some of the live albums, all the compilations and quite a few singles. Half on vinyl, half on cd.
How many times have you seen the band live?
Couldn’t give an exact number but loads, – I first saw them at what was then Leeds Poly in 1987 (thanks to the internet and really obsessive Fall fans I can now tell you this was Tuesday 5th May 1987) and I then saw them every tour until the late 90’s when after a particularly disastrous gig at Manchester UnI I gave it a rest for a couple of years. Then I started going again, so not sure exactly how many times in total but quite a few.
Highlights include the Kurious Oranj tour, a gig in 89 at the Hacienda, one at the Leadmill with two drummers, most of the times I’ve seen them at the Irish Centre and the Coop’s HQ in Manchester, oh and the Bierkeller in Manchester as well – though that was more memorable for it being the most chemically altered and drunken and yet still just about standing audience I’ve ever been amongst. I’ve seen most of the band incarnations since 1987. There have been many changes to the line up over the years – Mark E Smith is the only constant.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
It’s a mix of reasons. I like Mark E Smith’s anti-star and anti-fashion stance, his acerbity and contrary belligerence, intelligence and determination to carry on doing exactly what he wants regardless of whether anyone else likes it or not. I like the way the lyrics mostly make sense if you listen to them out of the corner of your ear. I like the way he ‘sings’ with his original Salford accent as it reminds me of home. I really like the way The Fall use bass guitars as lead guitars in lots of songs – creating basslines that grab you by the throat. I like the scrawled artwork on some of the album covers. I love the way they sound and the way that sound has changed and yet stayed instantly recognisable. As John Peel said of them – always different, always the same. Plus there is also a certain nostalgia element for me as they have been a constant soundtrack in my adult life and certain songs instantly transport me to different times. They make me smile and sometimes make me want to dance. I am very fond of their cover versions – especially White Lightning and Mr Pharmacist, and their cover of Lost In Music by Sister Sledge has to be heard to be believed.
I do look on Fall forums occasionally – but for news about the band rather than to participate. I wouldn’t say I was a Fall obsessive though as I do not have a copy of every recording they have made. I cannot remember names of members (though that would be a challenge for anyone given that there have been so many) or release dates or album titles either I am better at describing covers. I have read books both about the band and ones written by members. Mark E Smith’s Renegade is well worth a read but the one I’ve enjoyed the most is Steve Hanley’s The Big Midweek. Not least because he writes about my hometown and some of the gigs he writes about in that book I was at.
I’ve got one friend who I would describe as a Fall obsessive though as he is a dedicated Fall completist, does participate in forums and can name ex-members and release dates and track listings at the top of a hat. My husband likes them too but not as much as me. He prefers to see them live more than to listen to them – apart from Sparta FC which is his favourite Fall song. How many more times we’ll be able to see them live though is as it seems Mark E Smith is rather ill.
One of the other reasons I like The Fall is the fact that not many women go to see them so there is never a queue for the womens toilets at a Fall gig. I have never had any sexist unwanted attention at a Fall gig either. I have always felt safe watching them – whether I’ve been at the front or at the sides. Plus audience watching at Fall gigs is great fun too, you can spot who is the Fall fan and who isn’t amongst couples – the non-fan given away by the look of bemusement as to why people are watching with wrapt adoration a seemingly shambolic, drunk, rambling, mumbling/shouting man on a stage who often times walks off behind speaker stacks for a fag or attacks band members for not playing something properly and who constantly sucks what teeth he has left. Who also fiddles about with microphones on stage, plays keyboards randomly and invariably looks in need of a decent meal. You can also play guess the substance imbibed prior to the gig – both on the part of the lead singer and the bulk of the audience and thankfully there is very little watching of the gig through smartphone screens.
A Fall gig is never just a recreation of the studio sound of the latest album, it can be one of the most amazing aural assaults you can have the privilege to hear, they can also be shit like when they come on so late that the gig is cut short because there’s also a nightclub night afterwards, or Mark E Smith is so pissed as to be completely incomprehensible or the support act is interminably long and chosen I’m sure to rile the audience on purpose.
*One* favourite song?
Really tough to choose but it would be between Blindness and What About Us? which includes an exhortation to Harold Shipman to ‘dish out drugs’ to people other than old ladies from Fall Heads Roll (2005) and Bremen Nacht from Frenz Experiment (1988) and Auto Chip 2014-2016 from Sub Lingual Tablet (2015) – I could remember the song titles and snatches of the lyrics but had to look up the albums and years.
Morticia
How and when did you discover your band?
I met a guy named David when I was about 18, and he came to play records one Sunday afternoon. And amongst his collection was the album Songs of Love and Hate. I’d never heard anything like it and that was it for me. I was completely hooked. I had little money then, but started to buy albums and also his novels and poetry. I still think Joan of Arc is an amazing track.
How much of their music do you own?
I have everything Leonard Cohen has published in music and literature. I have many bootlegs. There are different cases of the Greatest Hits CDs So Long Marianne, and I collect these. I have various editions of his books, including foreign language ones. I also have a collection of posters, magazines, songbooks, biographies.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I first saw Cohen at the Albert Hall in 1993. Then later London (twice), Edinburgh and Dublin. (I think I make that five times). I met him in London when he was promoting Anjani’s tour and also in Manchester when he had an exhibition of his artwork. I’ve also met him at Green Note in Camden, during the afternoon before the evening concert with Philip Glass (The Book of Longing) at the Barbican. That was 10 years ago, and there is to be a reunion this October. I’ve had dinner with his sister, met his son Adam and daughter, Lorca. Met different band members over the years.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
He’s more than a singer/songwriter. He’s a thinker and philosopher. He’s a poet. Over the years, I have made many friends who are as into Cohen as I am (including my husband). There are regular gatherings on the Greek island of Hydra, as well as tribute/get-togethers in different cities around the world (Budapest in 2018).
*One* favourite song?
Hard to choose one. But I guess it has to be Bird on a Wire. I have asked for this to be played at my funeral because it has the line “I have tried in my way to be free”.
Lizzie
I first ‘discovered’ Manic Street Preachers as a kid, flipping through MTV (when it played music!) and seeing this band, in a house, having paint thrown at them. Being about 8 or 9 years old I laughed to myself, thought it was quite funny & kept looking out for it whenever it was on.
Fast forward a few years and it’s now 1995. I’ve been listening to Take That, East 17, all the boy bands featured in Smash Hits. Then Smash Hits started with indie band posters. Manic Street Preachers? That tall one is fit…But being 12 years old I didn’t think I was allowed to like these bands, especially that tall one with eyeliner so I kept that poster hidden in my room and continued with boy bands! Design For Life was now an anthem by this point so all the girls in school were talking about it. “Yeah it’s a really good song! Who else was on Top of the Pops last night?” And that’s how it stayed.
It’s now 1998. I’ve started to find my identity. I’m listening to the Brit Rock indie moment and dance music. I’m a full on little indie kid still finding myself and no longer afraid. This is my Truth tell me Yours is number 1 in the charts and I’m recording it off the radio. It’s the greatest song I’ve ever heard! I’ve no idea what it’s about, I didn’t know politics at all being a 14 year old, I was still learning.
Then You Stole the Sun From My Heart came out and my world changed.
It was the most beautiful song I had ever heard. On MTV every morning at 08:04 it was on. I made sure I watched it before leaving for school. I then realised lyrics could make me feel. I’d never been in love until I heard that song. The tall bloke was still the most beautiful male I had laid my eyes on and then, Nicky Wire was on the cover of my school books. When getting my braces re-wired I’d pop into Woolworths and buy singles for 99p in tape format (remember them?!) and my obsession began from there.
Having an older boyfriend at that time when I was 16 (ok not that old!) who was into rock helped me even more. He gave me The Holy Bible, Generation Terrorists on CD, Live at Manchester video, took me to see the MSP tribute act Generation Preachers. My eyes had been opened more.
At 17 in 2001, sat in sixth form college twiddling my hair when my cousin rang me to say she was gonna go to Reading Festival & that MSP were playing. It was only £70 for a weekend and do I wanna come? ABSOLUTELYYESIFUCKINGDOOHMYGODS!!!!
August came and I remember being in the middle, watching the stage be set up! “OHMYGOD THAT’S SEAN’S DRUM KIT!!!!!! OH MY GOD THAT’S JAMES DEAN BRADFIELD’S WHITE GIBSON LES PAUL SEXY GUITAR!!!!!! OH FUCK ME THATS NICKY FUCKING WIRE’S FEATHER BOA MIC STAND!!!!!!!”
I almost cried. They closed with Masses Against the Classes. I sung my heart out the whole set, I almost cried, maybe I did I don’t know but I’ve never missed a set since then!
Back in college, listening to XFM (now Radio X) they put on a competition to win a signed Mitch Ikeda – the Manics official photographer who had just put on an exhibition in Camden. The question being; ‘Manics are from Wales, but where?’
Me suddenly calling up – They answered!! What’s the answer? BLACKWOOD!!!! I now own a Mitch Ikeda James Dean Bradfield sailer outfit signed print. My valid favourite MSP possession. It’s hung on my wall with pride!!
When I was 19 or 20, (not sure) I was an active member of the Manics forum. A chat room on the manics website. I’ve made lifelong friends on that site, I fell in love on that site with another human who I was on/off for over 10 years. Whilst on that site someone mentioned they were making a film based on MSP & asked if anyone wanted to be apart of it. Course I did!!!! I went to Kentish Town & filmed a bit. Forgot about it…. In 2009 I was tagged on Facebook that the trailer for No Manifesto – A film about Manic Street Preachers had been released! Oh shit!
The film was released in 2014 & I got to see it in the cinema at the Prince Charles! Amazing. I have it on DVD now.
Many fans camp out the night before each show but I’ve never done that and have no desire to. It doesn’t make you any more or less of a fan. I’d just rather be in a bar before the show & not suffering a numb arse on a pavement!
In November 2011 Nicky Wire announced he was going to be doing a Q&A plus a talk for the Death of a Polaroid book at Rough Trade Records East. I don’t think I’d get through for tickets but I did! Oh shit!
As nervous as I was, I sat there with two dear friends, ‘Slatex’ who created the Manics fan site & club night Manic Street Mania & another friend David. When it was our time in the queue to have Nick sign our stuff James (Slatex) introduced himself and what he does. “Oh I’ve heard of you” was the reply. I full on fan girled inside after that.
Now here’s the other thing, I mentioned I would like Nicky to sign my arm so I could get it tattooed but I wussed out. My dear friend David saved the day and asked Nick for me. Que Nicky look at me, then David, then me. “But why? Won’t you regret it? You’ve been a fan since when? Okaaaaaaaay” and he signed my arm!!!!!!
The next morning I rang to my local tattoo shop & asked the artist to tattoo me. Explained the situation & casually mentioned his 10:00 client wasn’t here yet at 10:15…. Ok he did it for £20!! I still have Nicky Wire on my arm & I LOVE IT!!!!!
A year later at Southbank a show was announced about the influence of homosexuality in pop music. This being right up my street with all the acts I like I took note and realised, NICKY WIRE WAS ON THE PANEL! I got a ticket and again, I got to meet him!!!! However, when in the waiting area, with a wine, reading Mötley Crüe’s The Dirt book I saw in the corner of my eye people’s eyes lighting up….. Oh shit Wire just walked past me annnnnnnnnnnd I’m reading about the Crüe. Ahhhh shit.
Once the talk was over Nick came out to speak to a few fans & I got my turn!!! His first words were; “You’re the Rough Trade girl right?” Well I’ve been known as worse but yeah! He was quite impressed with the tattoo and said he liked it!
I did get to witness James at Rough Trade a bit later but sadly never got the chance to have him sign my arm. Soon…..!
This year, the person I fell in love with on the Manics forum died. His funeral was a mini reunion of Manics fans meeting up again in Bristol where he lived. The last song played as we all left the cremation hall was You Stole the Sun from my Heart. Before then I could listen to that sun every day but now I have different memories. At the moment I can only think of the funeral but now I’m once again remembering beautiful lyrics. A few months after being in Bristol for his funeral I returned to Bristol to see Manics play at the Bristol Harbour. They played that song and I felt happy again.
MSP are still my favourite band in the world to this day. I had heartache a few years ago and The Holy Bible was my go to album. The death of a loved one was my go to album. Teenage angst in my 30s? The Holy Bible. The furthest I’ve travelled to see MSP was to Amsterdam when they announced a 2 year break. I’ll be happy to go further money depending!! I own everything they’ve released and own a few rare items like the record they recorded for a show with SEAT.
One day I’ll have JDB and Sean sign my arm. He follows me on twitter so who knows?!
Temuri
How and when did you discover your band?
I discovered VNV via my friend Rik. Moved back to Sheffield with work, and ended up discovering the scene around Corporation, Dissolution and Batfink.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I’ve seen them 30-plus times. Every UK tour at least once and they were instrumental in me discovering German festivals such as Blackfield, E-Tropolis, WGT and Amphi.
How much of their music do you own?
What makes them special is the music and how it moves me. Albums take me through a journey and I own them all on cd. Many still in wrappers as I listen to most on mp3.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
Seeing them live is a whole other experience, where the crowd is moved by every track. Everyone has their favourite and sings along. The banter that Ronan has either the crowd is fun, and he genuinely remembers people and will stop mid-set to say hi. Seeing them do the classical concert in Leipzig was a highlight where the emotion was unbelievable, bringing a whole crowd to tears. I only wish the recording had worked out, so others not there could have experienced it.
*One* favourite song?
Gratitude has to by favourite track given the lyrics but it’s a difficult decision. I’ve chatted to Ronan on several occasions and he is a genuinely nice person. We have chatted about our mutual like of American-modded classic cars and he gives everyone time even if they are stalky.
Adam K
How and when did you discover your band?
In 2001 I went to Gotham (a yearly Goth all-dayer at LA2) and they were headlining. I had not heard of them before and they completely blew me away and from then on I tried to see them as often as I could.
How much of their music do you own?
I have every albums (20+ of them, most of those signed) and some of the ‘best of’ compilations. I have some old cassette tapes and even the DVD for the film they did some of the soundtrack for.
How many times have you seen the band live?
Hard to tell, I would say at least 50+ times maybe more. Hard to say without going through all my photo albums.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
Their music and their lyrics take me to another place. When I see them live I feel inspired, creative, ideas flourish, I get goosebumps. I am lucky over the years I went from a fan to a friend. They are so friendly and can play every type of gig from a big open air festival to an intimate small venue. They even played for my 40th birthday party and stayed at my place, making my celebration even more special. I also do feel part of a little community as their gigs are always full of familiar faces. Over the years I have been lucky that a friend of mine, Alan (who has been a fan even longer than me) volunteered to pretty much drive anywhere in the UK to see them. Recently they organised a very special event to spend all weekend in a lovely haunted castle for a one-off gig. It was great to spend time with many other fans and get to all meet-up in a quieter environment.
*One* favourite song?
That is so hard, I keep rotating between a few but I think Heart of Lilith.
Cecile
How and when did you discover your band?
I first discovered bis in 1996, though I remember trying to buy Kandy Pop but my parents forbade me because it was annoying. In 1998 I had more control of my money and was able to get excited for the release of their second album.
I had an online penpal who I’d met through The Divine Comedy, but it turned out we both loved bis – he was even mentioned in their liner notes!! We’re still friends now. I also once painted my bedroom in the style of their album cover and got mentioned in interviews. Being a big fan of a small group is very cool.
How much of their music do you own?
I own a copy of everything they’ve ever released. The only things I don’t own are variants of releases. I’m slowly scouring places to buy the missing pieces. I have 42 CDs, 23 7″ singles, 17 12″ inch records and one G-Shock watch. Even one cassette. Eight of the records are on my spare room wall, though one of them when I finally opened it had one wrong record. It was sealed, it came from the factory like that. I can’t afford another copy right now, it was the most expensive piece I own.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I have only seen them live around nine times. They don’t tour very often. I missed their farewell show in 2003 because I was still in Japan. I’ve been up to Glasgow, seen them in Leeds a few times, even London.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
When I moved to Japan in 2002 I had a pin badge on my bag and another person in one of my classes recognised it. We were immediate best friends, because who even knew who bis were?! Bis fans are a special type of person, getting to see bis live with both friends I’d met online through this has been incredible. I love their style, the punky yet pop music with an 80s twist. I get annoyed when they release yet another record on Record Store Day because there’s no shops around me that take part, so I end up paying inflated prices on eBay. But I’m that sucker that will keep buying them.
*One* favourite song?
My favourite song has changed throughout the years – it used to be Sweet Shop Avengerz but these days it would be Monstarr – it’s got a great feminist mantra running through it.
Aileen E
How and when did you discover your band?
Milwaukee’s alternative radio station, in the 90s, had a show called “Industrial Nation.” It ran late Saturday nights. When it first started, the DJ was a guy named Zoltar, the Brother from Another Planet. He was awesome, but eventually moved to Chicago, which is just too far away from Milwaukee to get radio signals clearly. The show continued, but it went to just some normal DJ from the station playing the music. This is, like, 1997, where “industrial” had some semblance of popularity. David Bowie was doing Industrial-esque tracks, Bush had a remix album, Smashing Pumpkins were genre-adjacent. The new DJ played mostly this stuff, eschewing the Wax Trax style of Zoltar. The one thing she played, though, was a song called Headstone by a band named Mesh. It stood out from the industrial-tinged alternative pop as something that was written to sound that way, and while it was perhaps more synthpop than strictly industrial, the track had a great groove and spooky subject matter. I taped the song off the radio so I could listen to it whenever I wanted.
In 1998, I found myself at Moon Mystique in Chicago, an occult store that also had a bunch of music magazines. They were the only place I knew in the US that carried the Side-Line magazine, which at the time came with a mix CD. I picked up an issue and almost didn’t buy it because I didn’t recognize any band name until I saw Mesh listed. It was a different song than Headstone – this one was I Don’t Think They Know. I hesitated, since the magazine/CD combo was like $12, which was a lot for a high school student without a job, but then bought it because I had liked Headstone so much. I Don’t Think They Know was less industrial-y, but also had a great groove. I was instantly in love.
Getting a Mesh CD at a store in the US was nigh-on impossible in the late 90s, but I tried. I finally found a copy of the Fragile EP in Chicago at Evil Clown Records. Shortly thereafter, I went to college, got a debit card, and was able to buy stuff online. In This Place Forever was the first album I bought from the internet. It’s still a favorite.
How much of their music do you own?
I have all of their albums, including the rarities (Fragmente 1 and 2), and a VHS copy of their tour video from like 2000. I think I’m missing a few singles, but the ones that I do have (in particular, the Friends Like These single) are phenomenal.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I’ve only seen them twice, both times in Europe. I saw them on the Who Watches Over Me tour in Cologne in 2002, when I was studying abroad in Germany. I then saw them in London in spring 2017, when I flew to London from Chicago really just for that concert. They toured the US once, but it happened at the same time that the first Resistanz happened, so I was on the wrong side of the pond at the time.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
The music is what draws me to them. It’s not really that I feel that I’m part of a community, but that their music is so awesome and sharing it (via DJing) with others makes me happy.
*One* favourite song?
As far as one favorite song goes: it’s hard to say. Friends Like These is maybe the most enduring favorite, but I can be convinced that most of their tracks are my favorite at the time of listening to them. As far as most important to me, I’d refer to Headstone and/or I Don’t Think They Know, for the reasons stated above.
Katja L
How and when did you discover your band?
A friend played me The Kiss (from the Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me album). I said it sounded like bad JimI Hendrix! Then he played me The Head On The Door album, and as soon as I heard Six Different Ways, that was it… I had a new favourite band. This was in 1989. Needless to say, I don’t think The Kiss sounds like bad Hendrix now!
How much of their music do you own?
Loads. Over 500 records, CDs, cassettes. Up until a few months ago I had loads of mega rare stuff (madly limited promos like The Blood 7” and Shake Dog Shake 7” as well as hideously scarce mispressings of Killing An Arab on 7” and suchlike) but I sold a few items. I had this stupid idea that owning everything made me more of a fan! Then I realised I’d never get everything so… my wife and I went to Marrakech on the proceeds of selling like ten records! I still have multiple copies of loads of stuff though… like seven different versions of Seventeen Seconds on vinyl.
How many times have you seen the band live?
Over twenty. Although a couple I have no recollection of (alcohol related!). The Cure are a great live band but sadly they play less and less regularly these days.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
Everything The Cure do is a constant struggle between ‘do everything today ‘cos you could be dead tomorrow’ and ‘do nothing at all ’cos what’s the point? We all die anyway’. I love that. It’s how I am. I also love the way that Robert Smith doesn’t compromise what he believes in.
Yes, I do feel part of a community. Whenever there’s a gig in the UK, there’s a bunch of us that all get together and get drunk, go to the gig then fall over. They’re all lovely people.
*One* favourite song?
I’m going to pick a recent one (that no one else likes), just to be different… The Real Snow White, off 4:13 Dream, their last, but hopefully not final, album. It’s a mental song. Filthy.
Graeme is part of The Golden Age of Nothing
How and when did you discover your band?
When I first discovered NIN I was reluctant to like them. I was a 12 year old Marilyn Manson fan at the time and the two were not friends, so I thought that I should be “loyal”. When the two made up, I bought The Downward Spiral and realised that I had been a massive idiot. My earliest memory of NIN is watching the We’re In This Together video on MTV in a Paris hostel on a school trip and all of my schoolmates leaving the room because it was too obtuse. That was a good sign.
How much of their music do you own?
I own several versions of all of the releases. I’m not to the level of barcode collection, but I have around 10 different copies of The Downward Spiral. It’s less exciting now that you can just go to the website and add everything to your cart; I really enjoyed travelling to pick up international versions, swapping with friends overseas, and the thrill of finding something really rare for £1 in a record shop.
How many times have you seen the band live?
37 times. I wish I had seen them much more in 2007.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
I’m very much a part of the community. I joined forums as a teenager and would spend hours online. I’ve arranged meetups globally, written for various fan sites, and even produced a critically acclaimed film for the band. My NIN friends probably know more about me than any other friendship group I have. We’ve been friends for over 15 years, stayed at each others’ houses, travelled the world together, and literally saved lives a few times.
*One* favourite song?
One favourite song doesn’t mean THE favourite song, so I can answer this question. I really like Satellite on Hesitation Marks because it’s one of the many NIN songs that sounds like Justin Timberlake and when I close my eyes I picture Kylie dancing to it.
Shreena
How and when did you discover your band?
I discovered PSB when I was 10 and I saw the video for Heart. A little gothic wedding with Ian Mckellan as Dracula. I fell completely in love with Neil Tennant. But even moreso the pop and the disco beats. I was 10 in ’87 and discovering all the pop wonderfulness the 80’s had to offer Michael Jackson, Madonna, etc etc. But even then PSB had a delishous Englishness and cleveriness I loved even then.
It’s funny how I struggle sometimes to remember how or why I met or liked people or things… but PSB no doubt.
How much of their music do you own?
I own just about everything by PSB… and used to collect every single 12″, rare tracks and when I was young I used to even collect every magazine and poster and put all over my walls. And even the inside of my lift updesk at school.
How many times have you seen the band live?
To date I think I have seen PSB five times.
This is many because they never used to play live much, thus tickets were exceptionally rare. Now very expensive.
PSB were my first ever gig. Wembley. But I was 5 rows from the front. 1990 I think I was 13, my parents drove me. I had a spare ticket but no-one wanted to go with me. It was Behaviour era. A beautiful set and dancing. I was spellbound.
I have seen PSB twice at Hammersmith. Once I bought tickets, the next day someone got me guestlist!
Amazing sounding. A smaller venue,but the crowd going wild… just blew me away, could have gone every night of my life.
Saw PSB at O2 twice…once by myself. Queued for a long time, stood for a long time, saw bad support. But all worth it to see my boys (think this was Pandemonium tour). Next time I was given a ticket by a friend… seated… but also by the front. I felt like I could touch them, I was with my friend and her whole family that loved them too.
Last time I saw PSB was at the Royal Opera House last year. What a venue. And what a show, live drummers and percussionists, lasers, set and outfit changes. These are two men in their 60’s! I was completely blown away. Like a fine wine… they really do get better with age. Like a few of my fav artists are quite prolific in older age. PSB are currently on a world tour.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
Its hard to say what is so special about PSB… they’re clever, witty, funny, ironic… stylish, human. I love the music, Hi-NRG, disco, boombastic, but also I think very emotive.
Sadly, I have never felt part of a ‘collective’ and prob why I turned to goth. But when I was young I got a lot of grief for liking PSB. I must be gay (Neil Tennant didn’t come out until 94, to date chris never has). I have tried joing fan clubs, but PSB is a private thing for me… keep me company as I was an only child. Fans are not just gay men. I have found then to be all different types of people, I just never connected sadly.
Now we are all older and have got over ourselves, lots of people will say they also like/admire PSB… how I wish I could have heard that in the difficult teenage years.
*One* favourite song?
Don’t make me pick one song, impossible. Maybe Heart.
But as an aside. I also appear for a brief second in the PSB video Integral. Ambition achieved. I have also met Neil Tennant very briefly at a book signing. He still doesn’t know I exist. I am a grown woman and sometimes still dream about them.
Heheh. I can still warble on.
A friend told me, how envious he was of growing up with a band like that. Bands come and go but one still working producing, playing live with new music. Also, the music (and often lyrics) that meant things to me as a youngster. I can go back to as now a middle aged woman and they will mean different things and have new meanings and depth. This is especially true of the song Being Boring.
Ruthy
How and when did you discover your band?
After hearing about them having been the band Wayne and Craig once were part of. Then hearing on BBC World Service Chart show – in Singapore, This Corrosion, Sept 1987.
..and reading about them in… Smash Hits!
(was already a Mish fan since hearing them previous Nov/Jan)
How many times have you seen the band live?
Didn’t see them live until 1993 as lived 7000+ miles away – Brixton Academy Dec 1993 – 20th, I think, would’ve been the “Overbombing” tour – only time I saw them with that lineup. When I say “saw” they were enveloped in a lot of smoke and I was quite far away as didn’t know anyone was quite bewildered/overwhelmed. I recall lots of people with canes and top hats like they thought they were Gary Oldman’s Dracula – later realised they weren’t the hardcore fans, just the posers at the back!
Didn’t see them again until 1997 by which time I’d met a few other people who liked them and got back in touch with my best friend from school – so we went to both their London gigs that year – and actually knew others there. Still didn’t go down the front, mind..
My favourite gigs by them include – Euro-rock in 1998 when they played a 30 minute medley encore and then there were fireworks…. Lokeren in 2010 where my friend made special badges to celebrate my 101st gig and another friend baked a cake. Even Von got one of those badges. No idea if he kept it!
Furthest travelled: San Diego.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
Developed a friendship with someone who travelled overseas, JUST TO SEE THEM.. and so in 1998 made my first 3 forays abroad for gigs – Taubertal, Eurorock and Gelsenkirchen – and met some of the continental following and a few other… dedicated UK based fans, as well as one person from Tokyo. We’re still in touch… and from there on it became not just about the band/music, but about friendships. So, 19 years later, I go just as much to see those people, those who’ve kept on going, of course, as well as the band itself. Some people fall by the way, some new people start turning up, and in the end, these days, more and more it’s a case of picking and choosing which gigs to go to and catching up/meeting up with the friends I’ve made along the way. Hey, some of us now even meet up when they’re not playing!
The evenings can be somewhat confusing when that happens though. Like… what time are they onstage? Errr… not.
How much of their music do you own?
I guess I have all the albums on CD, and um also have Floodland and VT on cassette! No singles collection or, unlike many obsessives I know, no live bootleg collection. It’s Manics back catalogue I collect, Sisters, I mostly collect friends and live experiences! 😀 I do have a selection of live setlists and stuff though… and old articles from Smash Hits and a bunch of tour/other tshirts/merch. You can only hear a song on record one way but you can see a band live in 20398 different ways, each night, though ostensibly the same, is different… and even when they blur into one, they reaffirm something about cameraderie, loyalty and the idiot feeling of being alive and being there…. and I’ve a horrible anxiety of walking away. I feel like I owe it to them not to walk away. Which sounds stupid, I know.
..and fuck the “classic” RAH lineup. That lasted barely a year and I’m not old enough. The world isn’t perfect, you just gotta love what you’ve got and give it your best.
Marge
Babes In Toyland
Watch on YouTube
How and when did you discover your band?
When I was 15, saw the video for Bruise Violet on MTV and instantly fell in love with the cathartic release I was watching play out.
How much of their music do you own?
All album releases, the single EP they put out, and several live releases (e.g. Peel Sessions) and bootlegs of promo videos.
How many times have you seen the band live?
Sadly they broke up before I had the chance to see them live until they reunited for a show in LA two years ago and I travelled out to see them being one of the lucky 400 people who scored tickets.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
While one of the bigger names in the feminist/riot grrl scene, I don’t consider myself a part of that community but have had a great appreciation for the music and how it shattered the perception that women are either there as backup singers or a front woman. While a band like Vixen was treated more as a novelty, Babes in Toyland channeled raw, cathartic energy into a band that stood on its own.
*One* favourite song?
This is really a tough choice, but if I had to go strictly by play count over the years, Mad Pilot edges out all the others despite being from a very early release and before the band really started refining their sound and technique.
Duke L
How and when did you discover your band?
Through Heavy Horses, I was thirteen at the time. I probably fell for the title picture.
How much of their music do you own?
All albums including Crest of a Knave. They fell down after that.
How many times have you seen the band live?
Only twice so far – not much of a gig goer.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
I am not interested in a community. The music resonates with me and that is enough.
*One* favourite song?
Bear with me on favourite song – too many to choose.
Bernhard R
How and when did you discover your band?
I loved the Afghan Whigs before I knew I loved the Afghan Whigs. There was this song I kept hearing in clubs and I thought it was AMAZING but I was never quite organised (or maybe sober) enough to remember who it was by the next morning. Then I was doing reviews for a free listings magazine and we put this song and and it came HOWLING out of the speakers, all angular and feedback, knocked me for six (the other reviewers thought it was an awful noise, the fools). It was Honky’s Ladder from the Black Love album. I was totally smitten and saved up to buy the CD. The CD was even better, like all the noir books I’ve always loved condensed into music. And it was lyrically, astounding as well as musically beautiful. In fact, it is an excellent album to pretentiously apply the word chiaroscuro to so I shall do that, it’s a musical chairuscuro: low lows and high highs, complex and endlessly rewarding of further listens. From Black Love I bought Gentlemen and BANG! There was that song. I’ve bought every album since.
Then there’s their cover versions, consistently some of the best, and the Uptown Avondale EP, which is mostly covers, might be one of my favourite things by them. Of course, ask me tomorrow and that will change.
It’s all good.
The Whigs have pulled off that amazing trick of getting back together and not being awful, despite missing a key member. If you youtube Matamoros from the album Do to the Beast, it’s not something that sounds like music made by a bunch of 50 year olds, and neither is the new album, In Spades. It’s still vital and relevant and not in a beard stroking ‘elder statesmen of rock’ way. It’s just great music. They keep going and they keep surprising and the band remain a force to be reckoned with live.
How much of their music do you own?
All of it from Gentlemen onwards. I have Congregation, the album before Gentlemen, but it is the sound of a band becoming, not the sound yet of the Afghan Whigs and as I’m not a completist I don’t have anything before that. I’ve also got all of Greg Dulli’s side projects, The Twilight Singers, Gutter Twins, solo stuff… I don’t really bother with picture discs or special editions that don’t have new music though, because I’m not someone who collects stuff or is interested in memorabilia, I just love the music.
How many times have you seen the band live?
Three.
I could never afford to travel when the Whigs, in their original line up, were touring so never got to see them. Now I have a kid so following a band is impractical-to-impossible, but whenever they come to the North of England we go see them. They are still astounding, I saw them in Leeds last week and they did that amazing trick of taking a track I don’t really like that much on record (Can Rova, for the record) and turning it into something transcendental.
I also went to see the Twilight Singers when I was really ill, I could barely walk and was in constant pain but thought it might be the only chance I ever got to see Greg Dulli play, so I dragged myself, with help from my wife, to the gig and they were amazing, I came out stronger than I went in. Which sounds like nonsense, but music does things doesn’t it? It does more than we understand.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
It’s for me.
There’s just something very visceral about their music that attracts me and I can’t really articulate it. Maybe it’s because there is a darkness behind it, as it’s not really part of me. I kind of think the Afghan Whigs are like falling in love, it’s insistent, exciting and obsessive. And on the note of falling in love, they’re the band that soundtracked the first years of my wife and I being together, our meeting and getting to know each other, so there’s an extra emotional bond to them because of that.
*One* favourite song?
Somethin’ Hot. It’s not their best song but it is so utterly linked in my head with meeting my wife that I couldn’t pick anything else. Here’s a great live version.
RJ Barker’s first novel, the epic fantasy/murder mystery Age of Assassins, was released worldwide through Orbit Books on 03-August and is currently getting great reviews, if stabbing, magic and whodunnits are your kind of thing
How and when did you discover your band?
The year was 1997, at the time I was in the middle of what I would call a musical awakening? However, from 1995 to 1997 I would wholeheartedly call myself an Indie Kid. I was in my mid-teens in the middle of Britpop. What else could I have been? But I had always loved harder things, I discovered my dad’s Black Sabbath albums when I was 8 or 9 and loved rock like Guns N Roses, Bon Jovi, Queen and later Nirvana but from 1994 onwards it was all about Oasis, Blur and Suede.
Things changed in 1997. I met Sarah (now my wife) and I discovered a plethora of bands in an extremely short time, from Goth bands like The Sisters Of Mercy, The Mission, Fields Of The Nephilim (among others) to post punk bands like Killing Joke as well as finding out bands like Sepultura and Pantera (who I liked when I was 13) were still around and quite cool. And that’s not to mention the so called Nu Metal bands I found like Korn, Coal Chamber and Deftones et al.
But the biggest thing to discover was this thing called Industrial. My introduction, like most, was Nine Inch Nails (as well as Sheep On Drugs on the cassettes B-side) but my mind was on fire with the combination of beats and guitars, the crunchy rhythms through to the spit and grit of the vocals. I found Ministry and KMFDM shortly afterwards too. On the metallic side of things I also found Pitchshifter and Fear Factory, and it’s the industrial metal sound of those two that led me to a
conversation.
I was at a house party in 97 when I struck up a semi-drunken conversation with a guy about music, like you do. Once I mentioned I liked Fear Factory he said “Oh you need to check Strapping Young Lad out. Their new album is amazing.” So I did. I went (like most of us had to back then) to HMV in Wakefield and bought their album (I think, but I’m not 100% sure I paid about £15 for it which was a lot in 1997) and took it home. I must have listened to it 4 or 5 times over that day, and it’s still in my top 10 albums of all time.
Took me a few years to pick up Ocean Machine (Devin’s first solo effort) but once I did I’ve never looked back and have been on this train of obsession ever since.
How much of their music do you own?
I have every album and EP he’s made from Strapping Young Lad, Devin Townsend, Devin Townsend Band, Devin Townsend Project etc. on CD (or download in a couple of cases) as well as all of the live stuff he’s released (that’s 38 albums, EP’s and Live albums, this also includes bootlegs and demo compilations). I’m also a good 30% of the way to owning them all on vinyl now with my extremely rare white vinyl Strapping Young Lad boxset taking pride of place there. I paid way more than I’d like to admit for that. I also have all his DVD and Blu-ray boxsets from all of the London shows he’s done with Devin Townsend Project and I was part of the crowd funding for his Autobiography, so I have a lovely limited edition signed and numbered version of that, as well as my name in the thank you list at the back.
Considering Devin’s prolific rate of releasing music and touring I imagine that collection is only going to grow. And I’m very happy about that.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I’ve only seen him perform live about 8 or 9 times now. And to my shame I never got to see Strapping Young Lad, mistakenly thinking they’d be around forever. But I have travelled far and wide to see him since, most notably making the trip to London to see the Royal Albert Hall Ziltoid Extravaganza show. But I’ve had children since 2004 and those kids tend to need feeding and clothes.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
At the heart of all of Devin’s music is his massively versatile voice.
From the screechy and gruff aggressive vocals of SYL to the almost operatic vocals of Devin Townsend Project (that also have gruff screechy vocals on occasion) to the subdued croon of Causality’s Of Cool; Dev fills his music with so many vocal layers it’s hard to pick apart. Combine that with the progressive metal sounds and the emotional resonance of much of his work and it hits me right in the feels time after time. From the anger of City and Alien by SYL to the soaring Prog Metal
of Infinity, Terria, Accelerated Evolution with their themes of love and spirituality there is a lot to take in. And much like his vocals the albums are layered densely with sounds. I like to think of them as deep. Best listened to through headphones they take years to really appreciated the sound contained within.
I think right at the heart of what I like about him and his music is that they stand the test of time. You can return to these records over and over and hear different elements or depending on your own mood experience them in a different way.
Whether I feel part of a community, I don’t know. I have had some great conversations with various people at his gigs over the years and I know I share a love of him with several of my friends. But I don’t actively seek out this interaction. I’m extremely happy I found an artist that challenges me over and over, makes me smile, has cathartic elements and on rare occasions makes me cry. Twenty years I’ve been a fan and very much doubt that will change anytime soon.
*One* favourite song?
This is a brutal question for someone like Devin who has so much material to choose from. I guess if it had to come down to one song it might have to be Funeral from Ocean Machine. It still makes the hairs stand up on the back of my neck after all this time. Seeing him do it live in the Albert Hall will remain one of my favourite musical moments of my life I think.
Richard Game is a DJ and is at Resurrected on 23-September
How and when did you discover your band?
I first discovered Ultraviolence back in the mid-00’s when I was still wet behind the ears on the industrial circuit. I used to take photos for a number of alt. nights in Plymouth and Dark Angels was the EBM/Industrial one. I think it was one of the nights that Rich Brown was behind the decks and he played Adultery. It was fun, bouncy, and had this evil edge that really got into my head. The following day I went to the local MVC to look for stuff by the band, but only managed to find their debut Life of Destructor. I bought it and my first play was at work…after hours at the Disney Store! I popped it in the speaker system and freaked everyone out!
How much of their music do you own?
It’s easier to say what I haven’t got. I’ve even got stuff that Johnny doesn’t! Lets see…. I have all the albums, singles and compilations on CD. I have Life of Destructor on vinyl and Japanese import, as well as the first 2 white label 12″ Johnny released before he joined earache, and his solo single North Korea Goes Bang. The only stuff I’m really missing is a couple of the records and 2 cassettes. Most of these are of course signed. I’ve even gone out of my way to find compilations with rare tracks (like Gangsta Gabba and the original version of Hardcore Motherfucker).
How many times have you seen the band live?
Just the once, but it was legendary. I had contacted Johnny for an interview back in 2011 and it was only after the article came out that Resistanz Festival announced he would be doing a comeback set. I sheepishly asked if he wanted a photographer to follow him around and he said yes! It was a big weekend for him too as he’d taken nearly 10 years off due to his health.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
This is very much a certain something for myself. UV was one of the first electronic/EBM/Industrial acts I got into and since being in contact with Johnny we’ve helped each other out with stuff. For example, he’s sent me demos and rare tracks in the post, as well as posters, and I’ve managed to find a recording of his long lost John Peel session. This year I even went so far as to make a 20 minute mix of his rarer work in case there were any more fans like myself.
*One* favourite song?
That’s a tough one…I’ve always enjoyed Dawn. It’s the opening track to his third album Killing God (which is also my favourite of his works) and is industrial bliss mixed with a hardcore beat.
Dokka C
How and when did you discover your band?
Purely by accident. Went with friends to see the U2 Christmas show in London and The Alarm were one of the opening bands. I thought they were tremendous!
How much of their music do you own?
Virtually all the official releases, many CDRs, lots of DVDs and still some cassette tapes which used to be currency amongst fans.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I saw the original lineup of the band 276 times. Down through the years ive seen all incarnations of the band, but not as much since I’ve lived in the US.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
Definitely feel part of a community, the Gathering is the prime example, fans from all around the world getting together in North Wales every year.
*One* favourite song?
Their first single Unsafe Building, though there are many songs I love, but thats still the one.
Paul R
How and when did you discover your band?
1985 was a year that has kind of shaped my life it was the year of discovering music and railways! I had heard of The Alarm back in 1983 when I had recorded 68 Guns off Radio 1, but it was 1985 that they really came into being a force, and my first purchases were made. This was down to one of my mates, as we built his model railway he would play Declaration (the debut LP) and the singles on vinyl, and I ended up cycling home with Blaze of Glory stuck in my head! And there was no going back.
How much of their music do you own?
My first purchase would probably have been the album Strength that came out in 1985 along with Declaration and since then the collection has gown! The original era of the band 1981-1991 produced albums selling over 5 million worldwide and I seemed to amass a collection on Vinyl, Cassette and then CD which were the UK albums, singles, 12” and limited editions and then with trips to London and record fairs; US, Japanese, European, bootlegs etc releases were acquired. Since 1991 three of the band have continued releasing material under a variety of names – Dave Sharp & Hard Travellers / Dave Sharp / Poets of Justice / Mike Peters / Coloursound / Dead Men Walking / The Alarm MM / Smalltown Glory / Big Country.
How many times have you seen the band live?
I first saw the band live at the Town & Country Club in London 24/11/87 and how many times have I seen the members of the Alarm play live since then, I’ve lost count tbh. In 1990 I embarked on the No Frontiers Tour taking in ten shows in Jan/Feb often crashing on strangers floors (who have then become lifetime friends) or seeking out cheap B&Bs. Similar touring occurred on the 1991 Raw tour joining up with friends from those 1990 dates. I was at the final gig with the original line up at Brixton Academy 30th June 1991. But it was only a couple of months later that guitarist Dave Sharp hit the road with his new band the Barnstormers playing classic and fleapit venues! From the Borderline where Tori Amos was the support for her first ever UK show to the likes of Birmingham Barrel Organ. Singer Mike Peters returned to the live circuit in 1992 with the Poets of Justice playing again at 200 capacity venues and one amazing gig/recording session at Abbey Road Studios. Around this time I was doing 30+ gigs a year following the band around from Brighton to Aviemore, Lowestoft to Galway. An estimate of how many times seen Mike, Dave, Eddie and Twist live would be in excess of 250 times.
What’s so special about the band to you – and do you feel part of a community, or is this something you do for yourself?
The Alarm Family – it may not be unique in music but there is something about the fanbase and the band members that have created a special link. From those early days of gigs when strangers would offer a floor to crash out on and end up with a house full of 20 strangers who then stay in contact for 30 years, to the band members when your chatting in the bar before or after a gig taps you on the shoulder and asks you if they can buy you a drink! I was asked back in 1994 to help do flyers at some of the Mike Peters gigs by his wife and since then I have been a small part of a volunteer team that has helped at gigs with flyers and merch stall. Mike was diagnosed with Leukaemia over 20 years ago and one thing that has created something special between the fans, the band and Mike’s family is the Love Hope Strength Foundation which the fans have taken on as a challenge to help spread the word and fight Cancer, “Swabbing” at gigs to save lives whilst raising money for projects in the UK and overseas. We the fans have worked together and raised tens of thousands of pounds together to help fund Cancer treatment in North Wales where Mike (and now his wife Jules who is being treated for Breast Cancer) are looked after. On 30/06/1991 when the original band line up played their last gig it wasn’t that feeling of the music ends but when were we going to see the friends we had made again – it was only a couple of months we all met up again in a London pub for that Borderline gig. Oh and I happen to run the largest Alarm fan group on facebook with over 2,800 members which includes band members past and present who regularly add content and information to the group.
*One* favourite song?
The most difficult question of one song out of over 500 recorded or played live by the band members over the 40 years since they first played live as Seventeen in 1977. The song I guess would have to be Spirit of 76 but even with that there are now 3 versions the original 1985 Strength version, an acoustic release/video and a revisited version from 2015 that has carried on the story of the characters with slightly updated and extra lyrics. But let me choose the 1985 classic 7.06min version.
Ian F
Glad that there was at least one NMA fan in your trawl. [grin]
There were actually a couple more who were interested, but I was damned certain that I was going to include at least one!