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Tango Brigade*
see under Starjets
TART*
Paul Currie (vocals / guitar), Paul Duggan (bass), Dave Stewart (drums).
Formed in Newtownabbey 1992 and heavily influenced by the likes of Fugazi and Dead Kennedys. T.A.R.T. were an integral part of the so called Indie Punk scene of the early 90's and for my money they were one of the best. Unfortunately the band only ever released 3 demo tapes (which are well worth a listen) and split up in the mid 90s after several line-up changes.
T.A.R.T. on MySpace Paul Currie's website
Formed in Newtownabbey 1992 and heavily influenced by the likes of Fugazi and Dead Kennedys. T.A.R.T. were an integral part of the so called Indie Punk scene of the early 90's and for my money they were one of the best. Unfortunately the band only ever released 3 demo tapes (which are well worth a listen) and split up in the mid 90s after several line-up changes.
T.A.R.T. on MySpace Paul Currie's website
Tearjerkers, The*
Paul Maxwell (vocals), Howard Ingram (bass), Paul McIlwaine (guitar), Brian Rawson (guitar), Nigel Hamilton (drums).
Excellent power-pop band from Belfast formed in late 1978 by ex-members of The Detonators, Cobra and Speed. Signed to Good Vibrations in 1979 and released their debut single Love Affair that same year. Then signed to Phonogram who released some stuff on the subsidiary Back Door Records. Split up around 1981.
A full Tearjerkers biography and discography features in the book 'It Makes You Want To Spit' (Reekus 2003)
Paul McIlwaines website Paul McIlwaine on Myspace Tearjerkers MySpace
Excellent power-pop band from Belfast formed in late 1978 by ex-members of The Detonators, Cobra and Speed. Signed to Good Vibrations in 1979 and released their debut single Love Affair that same year. Then signed to Phonogram who released some stuff on the subsidiary Back Door Records. Split up around 1981.
A full Tearjerkers biography and discography features in the book 'It Makes You Want To Spit' (Reekus 2003)
Paul McIlwaines website Paul McIlwaine on Myspace Tearjerkers MySpace
Tin Pot Operation
Anto O'Kane (Guitar, Vocals); Ray Lawlor (Guitar, Vocals); Shaz Morgan (Bass); Brian Steenson (Drums).
West Belfast band formed in 2003. Fusing elements of punk, pop, and ska, these political dissenters vent their anger towards injustice, oppression, poverty, war and corporate arrogance. Hints of Clash, SLF, Billy Bragg, The Levellers and Elvis Costello influences but, thankfully, TPO are no imitators. Over the past number of years TPO have supported The Stranglers, Aslan, The Damned, Ocean Colour Scene, and David Holmes, and have toured in France, Scotland and Ireland. They have released two albums, an EP and a single.
TPO on Facebook * TPO on Myspace * TPO official website *
West Belfast band formed in 2003. Fusing elements of punk, pop, and ska, these political dissenters vent their anger towards injustice, oppression, poverty, war and corporate arrogance. Hints of Clash, SLF, Billy Bragg, The Levellers and Elvis Costello influences but, thankfully, TPO are no imitators. Over the past number of years TPO have supported The Stranglers, Aslan, The Damned, Ocean Colour Scene, and David Holmes, and have toured in France, Scotland and Ireland. They have released two albums, an EP and a single.
TPO on Facebook * TPO on Myspace * TPO official website *
Thee Radicals
Keith (guitar / vocals), Ralph (bass / vocals), Graham (drums / percussion).
From Bangor / Belfast. Formed 2008 by members of Monkhouse and Runnin' Riot. This is what they have to say -
"Thee Radicals (aka The Anger From Bangor, aka North Down Marauders, aka The Bangor White Wine Team) formed in 2008 as part of singer and guitarist and gymnast Keith Farr's community order requirement. Since that time Farr and his band - the Ted Danson'esque Ralph and the rhythmless Graham - have fostered a reputation for lazy song writing and live shows as predictable as they are forgettable. The group have stumbled through a number of styles; veering from old school punk to garage to acoustic to hardcore, all with a singular lack of direction or substance. Yet on they go, unshakeable in their mediocrity, immovable in their desire to succeed. To date they have released nothing, achieved nothing, have no talent and - save for a handful of poorly attended shows and a cassette tape of half-formed, bumbling excuses - are nothing. They await death with open arms."
Thee Radicals on Myspace
Thee Radicals on Facebook
Thee Radicals on Reverbnation
From Bangor / Belfast. Formed 2008 by members of Monkhouse and Runnin' Riot. This is what they have to say -
"Thee Radicals (aka The Anger From Bangor, aka North Down Marauders, aka The Bangor White Wine Team) formed in 2008 as part of singer and guitarist and gymnast Keith Farr's community order requirement. Since that time Farr and his band - the Ted Danson'esque Ralph and the rhythmless Graham - have fostered a reputation for lazy song writing and live shows as predictable as they are forgettable. The group have stumbled through a number of styles; veering from old school punk to garage to acoustic to hardcore, all with a singular lack of direction or substance. Yet on they go, unshakeable in their mediocrity, immovable in their desire to succeed. To date they have released nothing, achieved nothing, have no talent and - save for a handful of poorly attended shows and a cassette tape of half-formed, bumbling excuses - are nothing. They await death with open arms."
Thee Radicals on Myspace
Thee Radicals on Facebook
Thee Radicals on Reverbnation
Tilt
John Cartwright (guitar / vocals), Michael Begley (bass / backing vocals), Brian McDonnell (drums).
Tilt were a North Belfast band active around the early to mid 80's. They gigged all over N. Ireland playing in the likes of Queens SU, Jordanstown SU, the Vintage in Enniskillen ( now Wetherspoons), The Venue in Derry, Crescent Arts Centre and loads of other venues. The band did record a couple of demo tapes that included original songs such as Warrior, Take Me, Silence in the Streets, and Lucinda May, but unfortunately never got to release any records. Tilt's drummer Brian McDonnell had this to say - 'Sadly Michael was killed in a car accident in 1993 but myself and John never did play together again. John went on to have a successful solo career and from what I remember he wrote a song that was a no1 hit in Spain for a Spanish artist. I don't think John and I will perform together again for no other reason than I've no idea what he's at or where he is, id love to catch up though and talk of the old days'.
Tilt were a North Belfast band active around the early to mid 80's. They gigged all over N. Ireland playing in the likes of Queens SU, Jordanstown SU, the Vintage in Enniskillen ( now Wetherspoons), The Venue in Derry, Crescent Arts Centre and loads of other venues. The band did record a couple of demo tapes that included original songs such as Warrior, Take Me, Silence in the Streets, and Lucinda May, but unfortunately never got to release any records. Tilt's drummer Brian McDonnell had this to say - 'Sadly Michael was killed in a car accident in 1993 but myself and John never did play together again. John went on to have a successful solo career and from what I remember he wrote a song that was a no1 hit in Spain for a Spanish artist. I don't think John and I will perform together again for no other reason than I've no idea what he's at or where he is, id love to catch up though and talk of the old days'.
Toxic Waste
Patsy (vocals), Roy (vocals), Phil (bass), Marty (guitar), Grub (drums).
Toxic Waste were formed in the Newtownards area in 1982 and were heavily influenced by Crass and the UK anarcho punk scene. In 1984 the band relocated to Belfast, recruited Roy Wallace (ex Wardance) as co-vocalist and quickly established themselves at the forefront of the local anarcho scene. Built up a good relationship with Conflict which earned them a number of releases on the Mortarhate label. The band split in 1986 and briefly reformed in 1991 only to re-emerge around 2007 and are once again gigging around the UK, Ireland and Europe.
A full Toxic Waste biography and discography features in the book 'It Makes You Want To Spit' (Reekus 2003)
Toxic Waste on MySpace * Full biography + photos here
Toxic Waste were formed in the Newtownards area in 1982 and were heavily influenced by Crass and the UK anarcho punk scene. In 1984 the band relocated to Belfast, recruited Roy Wallace (ex Wardance) as co-vocalist and quickly established themselves at the forefront of the local anarcho scene. Built up a good relationship with Conflict which earned them a number of releases on the Mortarhate label. The band split in 1986 and briefly reformed in 1991 only to re-emerge around 2007 and are once again gigging around the UK, Ireland and Europe.
A full Toxic Waste biography and discography features in the book 'It Makes You Want To Spit' (Reekus 2003)
Toxic Waste on MySpace * Full biography + photos here
Troubles, The*
McIntyre (vocals), McCurry (guitar), Kerr (guitar), Gilmore (bass), Gary (drums).
_5 piece streetpunk band from West Belfast formed around 2005. Split up a few years later. You can listen to one of their songs See You In Six (live) on their Myspace page.
The Troubles on MySpace
_5 piece streetpunk band from West Belfast formed around 2005. Split up a few years later. You can listen to one of their songs See You In Six (live) on their Myspace page.
The Troubles on MySpace
United Bottles
Marty (vocals / guitar), Ralph (bass), Eden (drums)
Belfast punk band formed by Marty, Ralph and Eden in 2015. All are ex members of Belfast's premier Oi! band Runnin' Riot who ceased to exist after the tragic death of frontman Colin McQuillan on 18th August 2014. United Bottles make their live debut on 13th February 2016 as support to Intensive Care at the Warzone Centre, Belfast. You can check out some demos on facebook, youtube etc...
United Bottles on Facebook * United Bottles on Soundcloud * UB on Youtube
Belfast punk band formed by Marty, Ralph and Eden in 2015. All are ex members of Belfast's premier Oi! band Runnin' Riot who ceased to exist after the tragic death of frontman Colin McQuillan on 18th August 2014. United Bottles make their live debut on 13th February 2016 as support to Intensive Care at the Warzone Centre, Belfast. You can check out some demos on facebook, youtube etc...
United Bottles on Facebook * United Bottles on Soundcloud * UB on Youtube
Unknown Creed, The*
Billy Murphy (vocals), Adam Murphy (guitar), Sam Murphy (bass), Eddie Magill (drums).
The Unknown Creed were from Carrickfergus and formed around late '82 /early '83. The band name stemmed from their anti sectarian stance which was pretty rare outside of punk circles. Their live set comprised mostly of original material with songs such as Everything’s Gone Now, Tell Me Why, The Darkest Hour, Fragments and Cut & Thrust. A few covers such as the Dead Kennedys Holiday in Cambodia and UK79 by Crisis were also thrown in. They gigged around Belfast and as far afield as Spuds in Portstewart. They also arranged punk nights in Carrickfergus where Snat, the Alternative DJ, played punk and indie records while The Unknown Creed provided a short live set. The band recorded a few demos with Keith Sherry at Red Hall, a stately home in Ballycarry, but they eventually split in 1986.
Unknown Creed on Reverbnation
The Unknown Creed were from Carrickfergus and formed around late '82 /early '83. The band name stemmed from their anti sectarian stance which was pretty rare outside of punk circles. Their live set comprised mostly of original material with songs such as Everything’s Gone Now, Tell Me Why, The Darkest Hour, Fragments and Cut & Thrust. A few covers such as the Dead Kennedys Holiday in Cambodia and UK79 by Crisis were also thrown in. They gigged around Belfast and as far afield as Spuds in Portstewart. They also arranged punk nights in Carrickfergus where Snat, the Alternative DJ, played punk and indie records while The Unknown Creed provided a short live set. The band recorded a few demos with Keith Sherry at Red Hall, a stately home in Ballycarry, but they eventually split in 1986.
Unknown Creed on Reverbnation
Urban Bitch*
Jim Megarry (vocals), Brian Gilmore (guitar), Robin Holmes (bass), Kerry Holmes (synth), Billy McIlwaine (drums).
Belfast band formed in 1980 by ex-Androids bassist Robin Holmes. In spring 1980, Holmes phoned former Androids bandmate Billy McIlwaine to see if he wanted to join his new band, and McIlwaine agreed. Jim Megarry, also formerly of the Androids, was roped in on vocals, Brian Gilmore joined on guitar, and Kerry Holmes (the future Mrs McIlwaine) became the band's synth player. The band were later joined by Joan Collis as a backing singer. Urban Bitch was a synth driven, post-punk band heavily influenced by the Velvet Underground. Their set consisted of choice covers of songs by the likes of Lou Reed, John Cale, Velvet Underground, and Alice Cooper. A few old Androids tunes, such as Bastards and Within These Walls, were also dusted down and a number of original songs such as the epic, 10 minute long Anger Fights Friends, were also included. Urban Bitch played some gigs around Belfast at the Pound and the Harp Bar but the band soon faded. It is believed that no recordings of the band exsist. After Urban Bitch split, Billy and Jim formed a Gary Numan / OMD inspired band called The Business. The only gig Billy can recall the band playing however was supporting Ruefrex on the north coast.
Belfast band formed in 1980 by ex-Androids bassist Robin Holmes. In spring 1980, Holmes phoned former Androids bandmate Billy McIlwaine to see if he wanted to join his new band, and McIlwaine agreed. Jim Megarry, also formerly of the Androids, was roped in on vocals, Brian Gilmore joined on guitar, and Kerry Holmes (the future Mrs McIlwaine) became the band's synth player. The band were later joined by Joan Collis as a backing singer. Urban Bitch was a synth driven, post-punk band heavily influenced by the Velvet Underground. Their set consisted of choice covers of songs by the likes of Lou Reed, John Cale, Velvet Underground, and Alice Cooper. A few old Androids tunes, such as Bastards and Within These Walls, were also dusted down and a number of original songs such as the epic, 10 minute long Anger Fights Friends, were also included. Urban Bitch played some gigs around Belfast at the Pound and the Harp Bar but the band soon faded. It is believed that no recordings of the band exsist. After Urban Bitch split, Billy and Jim formed a Gary Numan / OMD inspired band called The Business. The only gig Billy can recall the band playing however was supporting Ruefrex on the north coast.
UXB*
Paul McGowan (vocals / guitar), John Magee (guitar / vocals), John Adams (bass / vocals), Tim Magowan (drums)
UXB was a Belfast and Newtownabbey based band centred on a dodgy flat off Belfast's Antrim Road and formed in the spring of 1978. They had a range of influences from Iggy and the Stooges through to the Stranglers and ska. The band gigged regularly at the Harp Bar until their demise in mid-1979. They also featured at venues such as the Pound and the Kool Kats Klub in Belfast and a variety of more rural venues - including (for some reason) Ballymena. Never ones to miss a trick, the band purloined the services of Michael (Robbo) Robinson as roadie and ace ligger. Robbo recalls - I roadied for them for a few gigs, setting up Tim's drums, but as this took almost as long as the subsequent gig, the arrangement didn't last. John Magee had the strongest musical background having gigged with a number of bands around Belfast including Katmandu. In early 1979 they recorded around 10 tracks including Heart Attack, UXB (You and Me), Cyber Surgeons and Warz at Wizard Studios in Belfast with Davy Smith. The tracks never saw the light of day.
The band disintegrated when half its members headed to London to pursue their musical dreams whilst the others remained in Belfast. John Magee later moved to Australia, where he played in the bands Balancing Act and Mr Wolf. He is currently believed to be living on the west coast USA and teaching guitar. John Adams lives with his family just outside Saintfield having followed a career outside of music. The whereabouts of the others is not known.
UXB was a Belfast and Newtownabbey based band centred on a dodgy flat off Belfast's Antrim Road and formed in the spring of 1978. They had a range of influences from Iggy and the Stooges through to the Stranglers and ska. The band gigged regularly at the Harp Bar until their demise in mid-1979. They also featured at venues such as the Pound and the Kool Kats Klub in Belfast and a variety of more rural venues - including (for some reason) Ballymena. Never ones to miss a trick, the band purloined the services of Michael (Robbo) Robinson as roadie and ace ligger. Robbo recalls - I roadied for them for a few gigs, setting up Tim's drums, but as this took almost as long as the subsequent gig, the arrangement didn't last. John Magee had the strongest musical background having gigged with a number of bands around Belfast including Katmandu. In early 1979 they recorded around 10 tracks including Heart Attack, UXB (You and Me), Cyber Surgeons and Warz at Wizard Studios in Belfast with Davy Smith. The tracks never saw the light of day.
The band disintegrated when half its members headed to London to pursue their musical dreams whilst the others remained in Belfast. John Magee later moved to Australia, where he played in the bands Balancing Act and Mr Wolf. He is currently believed to be living on the west coast USA and teaching guitar. John Adams lives with his family just outside Saintfield having followed a career outside of music. The whereabouts of the others is not known.
Vedettes*
Alan Mairs (vocals), Ricky Monds (bass), Nigel Charlesworth (guitar), Gary Kirby (drums)
New Wave band the Vedettes was formed by four school friends in Belfast back in 1980. Their set consisted of mostly original songs such as Deborah, Youth Excitement, The Game Goes On, and All Times which they performed live around local venues, supporting the likes of Rudi, The Outcasts, and Acme. Two Vedettes songs - That Girl and Don't Let Up - appeared on the 'Express & Explore' compilation cassette released by the Blue Rhythm Audio label in 1982. In that same year the band decided to change their name to True Colours and aligned themselves with the New Romantic movement, making use of various keyboard players when required. True Colours secured a publishing deal with Chapel Music and recorded several sessions for the BBC (mainly for the Janice Long Show). They also gigged regularly in London and supported their mates band - Silent Running. Unable to get major label support the band drifted apart, briefly resurfacing in the late 80s to perform a low key reunion tour in Northern Ireland. Drummer Gary Kirby went on to replace Ian Gault in Silent Running.
Vedettes on IACmusic * True Colours on Myspace * Gary Kirby on IACmusic
New Wave band the Vedettes was formed by four school friends in Belfast back in 1980. Their set consisted of mostly original songs such as Deborah, Youth Excitement, The Game Goes On, and All Times which they performed live around local venues, supporting the likes of Rudi, The Outcasts, and Acme. Two Vedettes songs - That Girl and Don't Let Up - appeared on the 'Express & Explore' compilation cassette released by the Blue Rhythm Audio label in 1982. In that same year the band decided to change their name to True Colours and aligned themselves with the New Romantic movement, making use of various keyboard players when required. True Colours secured a publishing deal with Chapel Music and recorded several sessions for the BBC (mainly for the Janice Long Show). They also gigged regularly in London and supported their mates band - Silent Running. Unable to get major label support the band drifted apart, briefly resurfacing in the late 80s to perform a low key reunion tour in Northern Ireland. Drummer Gary Kirby went on to replace Ian Gault in Silent Running.
Vedettes on IACmusic * True Colours on Myspace * Gary Kirby on IACmusic
Victim*
Joe Moody (vocals), Wes Graham (bass / vocals), Hugh O'Boyle (guitar), Jeff Beattie (drums).
Formed in Belfast 1977 as a three piece by Wes, Jeff and Colin Campbell, but went through various line-up changes in their career. Ken Matthews (brother of Rudi's Ronnie) was recruited before the band released their debut single Strange Things By Night on Good Vibrations in 1978. First band to stage a punk gig in the legendary Harp Bar. Relocated to Manchester in 1979 and signed to TJM Records who released the single Why Are Fire Engines Red. Supported the likes of Slaughter and The Dogs as well as touring with the Damned. Released one further single The Teenage on Illuminated Records in 1980 (the single was produced by Rat Scabies). Called it a day around 1982. Incidentally, Mike Joyce played drums for Victim prior to joining Manchester legends The Smiths.
A full Victim biography and discography features in the book 'It Makes You Want To Spit' (Reekus 2003)
Victim on Wipeout Music
Formed in Belfast 1977 as a three piece by Wes, Jeff and Colin Campbell, but went through various line-up changes in their career. Ken Matthews (brother of Rudi's Ronnie) was recruited before the band released their debut single Strange Things By Night on Good Vibrations in 1978. First band to stage a punk gig in the legendary Harp Bar. Relocated to Manchester in 1979 and signed to TJM Records who released the single Why Are Fire Engines Red. Supported the likes of Slaughter and The Dogs as well as touring with the Damned. Released one further single The Teenage on Illuminated Records in 1980 (the single was produced by Rat Scabies). Called it a day around 1982. Incidentally, Mike Joyce played drums for Victim prior to joining Manchester legends The Smiths.
A full Victim biography and discography features in the book 'It Makes You Want To Spit' (Reekus 2003)
Victim on Wipeout Music
Violent Fuckwits, The*
Billy Riot (vocals), Gilmore (bass), Chris (guitar), Josh (rhythm guitar), Sloaner (drums).
Belfast band formed by well known punk-about-town Billy Riot and members of Mr Nipples outside a Sabrejets gig in 2003. Their first recording PC Punks appeared on the Riot Down The Lane comp. CD. Since then (with a few line-up changes along the way) these totally non-PC punks have released several CD's of their own as well as featuring on other comps. Now split up. Billy Riot fronts a new band - Hard Case.
Violent Fuckwits on bebo Violent Fuckwits on MySpace
Belfast band formed by well known punk-about-town Billy Riot and members of Mr Nipples outside a Sabrejets gig in 2003. Their first recording PC Punks appeared on the Riot Down The Lane comp. CD. Since then (with a few line-up changes along the way) these totally non-PC punks have released several CD's of their own as well as featuring on other comps. Now split up. Billy Riot fronts a new band - Hard Case.
Violent Fuckwits on bebo Violent Fuckwits on MySpace
VX
Steven Donnelly (lead guitar / vocals), Chris Byrne (bass / rhythm guitar/ vocals), Jonny Bill (drums / vocals).
'VX' are a raucous alternative / rock / punk influenced band from Belfast, who originally started life as a very young spikey topped school-boy skater-punk outfit way back in 2009.
Since those early days there's been more than few changes in personnel for one reason or another, while the band's musical direction and ability has also evolved into something pretty special with time and experience. But one thing is for sure, VX have a certain charisma and a very loud, razor sharp cutting edge that has helped establish their reputation as one of the best teenage bands with attitude on the current local scene. The current VX line-up consisting of original founding member Steven Donnelly (Lead Guitar / Vocals), Jonny Bill (Drums / Vocals) and Chris Byrne (Bass Guitar / Vocals) is without a doubt the strongest yet, and the recently recorded batch of self penned tunes (with more to come) intended for their future singles and their work in progress first album is confirmation that VX are a band on the rise and destined for bigger things in the future. The band have also recorded a new live acoustic / electric session at the famous 'Doghouse studios' with 'Ian (Buck) Murdock' from 'The Defects' at the controls, and had two tracks included on the october 2012 released 'Scarred For Life' cd compilation album, with more local label releases already confirmed and in negotiation for 2013. Theres also been 'VX' radio play and some well recieved self-produced promo video clips posted on 'Youtube', plus various very positive website /press mentions and reviews. And not forgetting the December launched and fully stocked 'Bandcamp page.......read more
'VX' are a raucous alternative / rock / punk influenced band from Belfast, who originally started life as a very young spikey topped school-boy skater-punk outfit way back in 2009.
Since those early days there's been more than few changes in personnel for one reason or another, while the band's musical direction and ability has also evolved into something pretty special with time and experience. But one thing is for sure, VX have a certain charisma and a very loud, razor sharp cutting edge that has helped establish their reputation as one of the best teenage bands with attitude on the current local scene. The current VX line-up consisting of original founding member Steven Donnelly (Lead Guitar / Vocals), Jonny Bill (Drums / Vocals) and Chris Byrne (Bass Guitar / Vocals) is without a doubt the strongest yet, and the recently recorded batch of self penned tunes (with more to come) intended for their future singles and their work in progress first album is confirmation that VX are a band on the rise and destined for bigger things in the future. The band have also recorded a new live acoustic / electric session at the famous 'Doghouse studios' with 'Ian (Buck) Murdock' from 'The Defects' at the controls, and had two tracks included on the october 2012 released 'Scarred For Life' cd compilation album, with more local label releases already confirmed and in negotiation for 2013. Theres also been 'VX' radio play and some well recieved self-produced promo video clips posted on 'Youtube', plus various very positive website /press mentions and reviews. And not forgetting the December launched and fully stocked 'Bandcamp page.......read more
Wardance (1)*
Simon Thomson (guitar / vocals), Alastair Graham (bass guitar), Denis McBride (drums).
Formed in 1978 by a trio of bored teenagers in Merville Garden Village, Newtownabbey. Wardance were heavily influenced by the Stranglers and the Fall. However, the absence of keyboards resulted in a sound somewhat like a cross between the rather less influential, and soon forgotten acts, the Motors and the Membranes. Mostly playing in youth clubs in the Newtownabbey area, their career peaked with a few support slots at the Harp Bar, before running out of steam. After the band split in 1980 Denis McBride gave up drumming and pursued the less punk-rock pastime of rugby, eventually playing regularly for Ireland, captaining Ulster and currently can be seen as a rugby commentator on local television. Alastair Graham became a photographer for Alternative Ulster fanzine and contributed regularly to the NME before entering the medical profession, whilst Simon Thomson kept the flame burning in local bands the Suss and Rhythm Method.
Wardance bio featured in the book It Makes You Want To spit!
Formed in 1978 by a trio of bored teenagers in Merville Garden Village, Newtownabbey. Wardance were heavily influenced by the Stranglers and the Fall. However, the absence of keyboards resulted in a sound somewhat like a cross between the rather less influential, and soon forgotten acts, the Motors and the Membranes. Mostly playing in youth clubs in the Newtownabbey area, their career peaked with a few support slots at the Harp Bar, before running out of steam. After the band split in 1980 Denis McBride gave up drumming and pursued the less punk-rock pastime of rugby, eventually playing regularly for Ireland, captaining Ulster and currently can be seen as a rugby commentator on local television. Alastair Graham became a photographer for Alternative Ulster fanzine and contributed regularly to the NME before entering the medical profession, whilst Simon Thomson kept the flame burning in local bands the Suss and Rhythm Method.
Wardance bio featured in the book It Makes You Want To spit!
Wardance (2)*
Roy Wallace (vocals), Mark Baker (vocals), Gary Robinson (guitar), Mark Watson (bass), Jim Johnston (drums).
Formed in Newtownabbey in late 1982 as The Kill. When John Stanley, the original drummer, left the band singer Jim Johnston switched to the drumstool and co-vocalists Roy Wallace and Mark Baker were recruited. They made their live debut in November '83 supporting The Outcasts at the Palm Grove. Shortly after the gig the band name was changed to Wardance. The band set of on a series of gigs playing anywhere from Belfast to Derry, the highlight being the Rathcoole Community Workshop Festival with Conflict. The contact with Conflict led to Wardance contributing the song Stand The Proud to the We Don't Want Your Fucking Law compilation album (released by Fight Back Records in 1985 after Wardance had split up!). Baker had left the band by the time of the Conflict gig but rejoined briefly for the recording session. Wardance were invited to play the 'Stop The City' demo in London in August 1984 but a couple of the band couldn't make it and Roy headed over on his own. This led to a huge rift within the band but after one final attempt to salvage Wardance the band split. Roy Wallace went on to join Belfast based Anarcho-punk band Toxic Waste.
Toxic Waste on MySpace
Formed in Newtownabbey in late 1982 as The Kill. When John Stanley, the original drummer, left the band singer Jim Johnston switched to the drumstool and co-vocalists Roy Wallace and Mark Baker were recruited. They made their live debut in November '83 supporting The Outcasts at the Palm Grove. Shortly after the gig the band name was changed to Wardance. The band set of on a series of gigs playing anywhere from Belfast to Derry, the highlight being the Rathcoole Community Workshop Festival with Conflict. The contact with Conflict led to Wardance contributing the song Stand The Proud to the We Don't Want Your Fucking Law compilation album (released by Fight Back Records in 1985 after Wardance had split up!). Baker had left the band by the time of the Conflict gig but rejoined briefly for the recording session. Wardance were invited to play the 'Stop The City' demo in London in August 1984 but a couple of the band couldn't make it and Roy headed over on his own. This led to a huge rift within the band but after one final attempt to salvage Wardance the band split. Roy Wallace went on to join Belfast based Anarcho-punk band Toxic Waste.
Toxic Waste on MySpace
What Of The Night*
_Adrian Wylie (vocals), Matt McArdle (guitar / vocals), Jem Mackay (guitar / vocals), Hugh C.Betteridge (bass), Trevor Marshall (drums).
What Of The Night were a Christian new wave band formed in 1978 by Adrian Wylie while studying at Bath University . They recorded a demo tape in early 1979 at the BBC Radio Bristol studio and entered it in a competition run by Anne Nightingale on BBC Radio One. The band won the title of 'best new Gospel band in the UK'! The rest of the year was spent at a studio in Glasgow recording material for an album. John Coulter, an old school friend of Wylie's from their time at Ballymena Academy, had started a Christian punk & heavy metal record label - Budj Records, and What Of The Night's self-titled album was to be the first release. The album was released amid a flurry of of publicity in the local press at Christmas 1979, and immediately came under fire from Christian fundamentalists who believed punk and heavy metal to be the 'music of the Devil!' Protesters waved placards and boycotted the shop selling the record in Ballymena. Punk purists were suspicious of the album due to its Christian sentiment. This was the bands only release after which they faded into obscurity. (What Of The Night remind me a little of Rikki & The Last Days Of Earth!)
What Of The Night at Flipside blogspot
What Of The Night were a Christian new wave band formed in 1978 by Adrian Wylie while studying at Bath University . They recorded a demo tape in early 1979 at the BBC Radio Bristol studio and entered it in a competition run by Anne Nightingale on BBC Radio One. The band won the title of 'best new Gospel band in the UK'! The rest of the year was spent at a studio in Glasgow recording material for an album. John Coulter, an old school friend of Wylie's from their time at Ballymena Academy, had started a Christian punk & heavy metal record label - Budj Records, and What Of The Night's self-titled album was to be the first release. The album was released amid a flurry of of publicity in the local press at Christmas 1979, and immediately came under fire from Christian fundamentalists who believed punk and heavy metal to be the 'music of the Devil!' Protesters waved placards and boycotted the shop selling the record in Ballymena. Punk purists were suspicious of the album due to its Christian sentiment. This was the bands only release after which they faded into obscurity. (What Of The Night remind me a little of Rikki & The Last Days Of Earth!)
What Of The Night at Flipside blogspot
Witching Hour*
Paul Welsh (vocals), Ian Carlisle (guitar), Joe Goudie (bass), Dave Slinger (drums).
Newtownabbey based goth/rock/post punk band formed in 1982. They were influenced by the likes of Bauhaus, Killing Joke and The Clash. The band gigged regularly in 'alternative' venues in Belfast such as Jules and The Orpheus as well as Lavery's Bar, The Errigle Inn, and Queens Student Union. They also appeared at quite a few open air festivals and clubs around the country. Their set consisted of a mix of original material such as Burnin' Kisses, Witching Hour and After The End, and a few choice covers such as Bela Lugosi's Dead (Bauhaus), and Moonage Daydream. Witching Hour folded in 1985 after Goudie was involved in a near fatal motorbike accident. Goudie went on to form Burnin' Kisses and then in 2008 he formed alternative / rock / goth band The Almighty Fallen.
The Almighty Fallen on Facebook
Newtownabbey based goth/rock/post punk band formed in 1982. They were influenced by the likes of Bauhaus, Killing Joke and The Clash. The band gigged regularly in 'alternative' venues in Belfast such as Jules and The Orpheus as well as Lavery's Bar, The Errigle Inn, and Queens Student Union. They also appeared at quite a few open air festivals and clubs around the country. Their set consisted of a mix of original material such as Burnin' Kisses, Witching Hour and After The End, and a few choice covers such as Bela Lugosi's Dead (Bauhaus), and Moonage Daydream. Witching Hour folded in 1985 after Goudie was involved in a near fatal motorbike accident. Goudie went on to form Burnin' Kisses and then in 2008 he formed alternative / rock / goth band The Almighty Fallen.
The Almighty Fallen on Facebook
Xdreamysts
Uel Walls (vocals), John Doherty (guitar), Roe Butcher (bass), Brian Moffat (drums).
Pub-rockin' / power-poppin' band from the Coleraine / Portrush area. Formed in 1977 as Flying Squad then changed the name to Xdreamysts. Played all the local punk venues and released their debut single Right Way Home on Good Vibrations in 1978. The band then signed to Polydor and released 3 further singles and a Dutch only album. Split up in the early 80's but reformed in 2007. Still playing the occasional event.
A full Xdreamysts biography and discography features in the book 'It Makes You Want To Spit' (Reekus 2003)
Xdreamysts on MySpace
Pub-rockin' / power-poppin' band from the Coleraine / Portrush area. Formed in 1977 as Flying Squad then changed the name to Xdreamysts. Played all the local punk venues and released their debut single Right Way Home on Good Vibrations in 1978. The band then signed to Polydor and released 3 further singles and a Dutch only album. Split up in the early 80's but reformed in 2007. Still playing the occasional event.
A full Xdreamysts biography and discography features in the book 'It Makes You Want To Spit' (Reekus 2003)
Xdreamysts on MySpace
Xposers, The*
Roy McConnell (vocals), Derek Machen (guitar), Roy Spence (guitar/vocals), Ashey Sinnerton (bass), Sharon Spence (drums).
The Xposers were one of the first punk bands to come out of Rathcoole. They were founded in 1979 by guitarist and songwriter Roy Spence (R.I.P.). Their musical influences included The Vibrators, Talking Heads, Devo and Neil Young. The Xposers were one of very few bands at the time to include a female in their ranks, with a young lady named Sharon firmly installed on the drum stool. They can be seen performing live in the 'uncut' version of John T. Davis' acclaimed film Shellshock Rock.
Interview with Ashey Sinnerton
The Xposers were one of the first punk bands to come out of Rathcoole. They were founded in 1979 by guitarist and songwriter Roy Spence (R.I.P.). Their musical influences included The Vibrators, Talking Heads, Devo and Neil Young. The Xposers were one of very few bands at the time to include a female in their ranks, with a young lady named Sharon firmly installed on the drum stool. They can be seen performing live in the 'uncut' version of John T. Davis' acclaimed film Shellshock Rock.
Interview with Ashey Sinnerton
The Zipps*
Mel Power (guitar / vocals), Jonny Gruhn (guitar), Andrew Curliss (bass), Paul Fraser (drums).
Belfast band The Empire morphed into The Zipps in 1978. The Zipps were influenced by the likes of The Jam, The Clash, Sex Pistols and David Bowie. They played in all the usual haunts around Belfast - Harp Bar, The Pound, Glenmachan etc. and in north coast venues such as The Strand, Portstewart and the Arcadia, Portrush. On 30th March 1979 the band signed to Rip-Off Records and promptly recorded four songs. Two of these - Friends and Don't Tell The Detectives appeared on the Zipps one and only single later that year. By 1980 it was all over - Curliss and Fraser went on to form The Zenn with Colin Campbell (ex Victim). Those three then teamed up with Aidan Murtagh (ex Protex) to form The Famous Five. Mel Power recorded some new songs with the help of old bandmates Curliss and Gruhn plus Owen McFadden (Protex) and Stuart Bailie (Acme Music).
A full Zipps biography / discography features in the book It Makes You Want To Spit! (Reekus 2003).
Belfast band The Empire morphed into The Zipps in 1978. The Zipps were influenced by the likes of The Jam, The Clash, Sex Pistols and David Bowie. They played in all the usual haunts around Belfast - Harp Bar, The Pound, Glenmachan etc. and in north coast venues such as The Strand, Portstewart and the Arcadia, Portrush. On 30th March 1979 the band signed to Rip-Off Records and promptly recorded four songs. Two of these - Friends and Don't Tell The Detectives appeared on the Zipps one and only single later that year. By 1980 it was all over - Curliss and Fraser went on to form The Zenn with Colin Campbell (ex Victim). Those three then teamed up with Aidan Murtagh (ex Protex) to form The Famous Five. Mel Power recorded some new songs with the help of old bandmates Curliss and Gruhn plus Owen McFadden (Protex) and Stuart Bailie (Acme Music).
A full Zipps biography / discography features in the book It Makes You Want To Spit! (Reekus 2003).