This page is being constantly updated as more bands and information is yet to be retrieved...If you have any worthy contributions e-mail me:
Email: mailto:geoffmorgan@mistral.co.uk Last update 20/03/2002
[Hackney Bohemian Library] [Hackney Bohemian Events][Hackney Bohemian Network (Ha!Ha! Hackney)]
This page is being constantly updated as more bands and information is yet to be retrieved...If you have any worthy contributions e-mail me:
Email: mailto:geoffmorgan@mistral.co.uk
Last update 20/03/2002
The A-Z Index is as follows:
The Description:
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Please click the hyper links below which will tell you yet more about the band's achievements:
100,000 Body Bags (More Info.) : Originated in Blackwood, home of the Manic Street Preachers. This crew were very much around in the 1990's.
Ginger, a Blackwood passion for weird and wonderful things was a very ardent follower of the Body Bags. Wrote songs against war and great lyrics combined with an energetic sound provided fulfilling entertainment for those bored with the tired suit and tie. They
played a storming gig at the Samuel Beckets in Stoke Newington in July 1994 and made a small impact on the Hackney Bohemia scene during that time. They certainly were a crucial part of the Blackwood Bohemia. Produced some wonderful sound recordings of their stuff all with relevant and controversial statements. I think they really ought to be gigging at this moment, a real breath of fresh air and would probably have something to say about Bush's "War of Terror"..
Anthony Gingell of the Body bags is still making a noise in the Rhondda Valleys
look at their web-site for more Bags of Bohemian Bodiness.
AK47'S: A band playing great Ska stuff in the late 1980's….Very stimulating and foot tapping rhythms..Did numerous benefit gigs and anti fascist polemics. Tim the guitarist is from Sunderland the home of the Doleclaimers and even went to the same school as the verbose duo..
They were very buoyant in Hackney and great moral boost during the horrid Thatcher years. Have been missed. A number of recordings of their music were made available including a tremendous album which was and important catalyst for the Tottenham 3 campaign.
Jim and gel the twins in this band are dance music DJ's now and Derek is the rhythm guitarist for the fantastic Dead Dog Mountain.
Alternative TV (More Info.) : A fantastic and inspirational set of punkees. Very alternative and were pro-active in the 1990's. Especially prevalent during the anarchist festival of 1996 with a great gig at Chat's Palace. Performed lots of weird venues. Mark Perry teamed up with Vic Goddard (Subway Sect) in the Long Decline along with Rob from the Doleclaimers. A pretty lively team composing weird stuff and something that is made of the 21st Century. However, they have presently, all gone in different directions. One of the band's former members is organising the Icelandic Music Scene. However, this band did make its presence on the Hackney Bohemian Music Stage. They may well be back.
Apostles, the (More Info) : Another inspiring band forged out of the Hackney Bonfire of talent. Have been around since 1980 and can claim to be the kindling of the Hackney Bohemian Bonfire! Done lots of stuff with the Astronauts and written lots of political dogma. Click on the link and check out their Web site for more. There's also something on the web about autonomy and Autonomous centres , the apostles have been especially prolific in this area.
Astronauts, the ( More Info.) : A classic Hackney band have existed since the mid 1980's and still going strong on the underground scene. Are very inventive and have played a huge number of benefit gigs during their career. Keep an eye out for this idealistic group of lads. They have a fine attitude and their commitment in striving for new sounds and stretching the imagination is an inspiration.
Bagdaddies, the (More Info.) : Still going founded in the 1990’s playing a wonderful mix match of East European G/gypsy stuff. Tour regularly around Europe, and play a number of fascinating venues around Hackney. Also a large number of benefit gigs. Lots of great accordion playing and a super act.
Bikini Beach: Those of you that remember Zip Zip Undo Me (1990 - 1993 ) will be delighted to hear that two of the are still at large within this outfit. Usually seen at the Church Street festival and other strange events. They are as their name implies a sort of surf band. Twangy guitar riffs reminiscent of Hank Marvin help to create a fun packed show. A real Hackney band albeit a little different from the other Bohemians. They are still around and bathing in the afterglow of moderate success. There are, I believe a number of albums available but a hard to obtain. If you are lucky you'll have one. The drummer ('Pinball Geoff') now plays with the Witch Doktors .
Blaggers (More Info.) : Have become one of the better known of the bands that played in Hackney Bohemia. They have certainly made their mark on the Indie scene, having completed a long string of benefit gigs at strange venues in Hackney. They are still prominent and are well worth seeing. Their web-site says it all.
Blithe Power (More Info) : A great hit with audiences during the late 1980's and yet more in the 1990's. They have played loads of benefit gigs in other parts of the Uk and elsewhere. They have raised moral amongst campaigners for a better world. Used to play regularly at the Samuel Beckets (Now Closed). They are still going and collaborate with Eastfield. Great grungy sound and were better that Nirvana. They have refused to sell out and are committed to their mission to produce a high energy sound with sensible lyrics.
Bon Bon Kaotikai* (More Info.)
Geoff Morgan played his Herbal Accordion with this out fit and is now playing
with the Siobhan Dowd, the author of A
Swift Pure Cry. For more information click on the hyper link at the beginning of this entry. A number of recordings, pictures and videos are available from time to time. Will hopefully resume their audacious act in 2002.
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Brassic Park: These were always entertaining and wonderful to watch. Really were abound in the mid 1990's, so not exactly dinosauras, playing benefit gigs and generally eclectic rhythms laced with old fachioned punk a la Pain. They played a large number of benefit gigs during their most active spell and played at the notorious Acton Arms in Hackney. The drummer Pat was a picture of fun with his laid back slick feel for the skins. Very catchy and original act on the whole the whole show was a statement challenging mainstream culture ( Whatever that is). I'm sure there are photos and sound recordings lurking somewhere as a record of the Brassic Past of Brassic Park.
Bryan Johnson: A fantastic, little known reggae band. Very popular in hackney, are altruistic and their lyrics make pleasant statements.
Bush House: Awaiting info. More soon!
Chi Mah Mi : An excellent combination of 'dancey Trancey' sounds. One cannot help swinging to the excellent rhythym of this band. A great following and ethos at their gigs where one can engage in "save the world" debates which can be very taxing on the brain whilst chilling out and sweating with the rest of the bohemians. All in all a fantastic night out and they will be around and about for some time. They have played at the notorious Arsenal Tavern and are around and about on the underground scene. Have not sold out yet and their catchy soundbites are here to stay, I'm sure. Availability of recorded music is ambiguous… but will be cleared up soon.
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Curl : Yes, well Sam
Vovnik a one time charismatic Bohemian in Hackney in the 1980's and early 1990's still stuns us with his catchy sounds and graphic lyrics.. very Psychological and is infectious… especially 'Waver tree Supersonic' Nice one Sam
Vovnik… now lives in Liverpool. The album by Curl is fantastic and is well worth a listen if you can obtain a copy.
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Daily Dilemna: Stoetzler and Ughetto line up in this band for minimalism. Enraged by angst and striving for harmony their Hackney influence is engrained on their style. Stoetzler's unique voice is grinding and painful on the track 'home' and genius is enmeshed in the whole of their outfit. A 21st century band with ego lyrics and a sophist harmony… Where the Germanic vocals greets the flamboyant Italian bass to create a Euroclectic sound…Their premier being at the Red Room Club, Needles Bar… away from Hackney… Stoetzler once played drums for More Organic Mayhem at Chats Palace in 2000 a drum roll in the past perhaps.. http://disorientation.org/daily_dilemma
Dead Dog Mountain: One of the real stalwarts of the Hackney Bohemian scene in the 1990's. Played heaps of gigs throughout this decade. A mixture of ska/reggae and more rocky punky jives. They played mopre benefit gigs than the Ugly Beat and virtually every known venue there ever was in Hackney. Toured Germany frequently and built up a regular following. Marvin, the singer carried a lot of presence and they were very professional ( although they probably hate that word) in what they achieved in reaching out to the very selective audiences. Recordings, videos and Photos are available somewhere. But if they make an appearance, which is a rare thing these days, make sure you spot them.
Dead Letter Office:*: One time great band, Beatles type music mainly of John Lennon influence.. Julian Wilmore is still abound. Mick the bassist is now touring with his comedy act and Sheila is an expert in herbal medicine. Around in the mid 1980's and played the weird disused gas building in Stoke Newington next door to the Cricketers. Julian's voice bringing colour to the dark Bohemian smoke filled cellar, while punky people looked on in astonishment. There are sound recordings of their music available.
Dick Ugly Ensemble, the (More Info.) : Born in 1990, their first gig at the Samuel becketts in Stoke Newington Hackney, Dick Ugly prior to this mesmerised the Bohemians of the 1980's with his unique brand of poetry.. Have done a large number of benefit gigs before re-inventing themselves as the 'Ugly Beat'. Now the dynamic twins are playing in the 'Doleclaimers..The DUE was the precursor to a fine career which is still as dynamic as ever. See How they evolved.
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Doleclaimers, the (More Info.) : This double act, forged mainly out of the Ugly Beat in the late 1990's, love to sing protest songs and conjure up a fairly up beat folk sound with fine mandolin playing and lively rhythm guitar. They have played benefit gig after benefit gig and are committed to satire and thought provoking lyrics.They are very entertaining and have performed everywhere in Hackney. They are definitely not to be confused with the likes of the Proclaimers. Dick and Rob provide much more substance and certainly have not SOLD OUT. The highlight is when they sing about the Home Secretary. There are a number of recordings of their music floating around. They changed their name in March 2002 to Preacher Casey.
Dread Messiah : A real hard core punk band, around in the late 1980's early to mid 1990's. A wonderful treat of extravagance offered by Ebo's relentless energy. A big band with big men. Played at a large number of squats in hackney and had the energy to enrich peoples lives with a special kind of energy g the rave scene at that time. Very ebullient lyrics challenging the status quo and the craap and lack of integrity of mainstream lifestyles. However certainly not commercial and bohemian punks who really helped to make |hackney an attractive proposition to bored prople. Great artists too. Their situationist ideaology has been an inspiration and the genious of this generous crew has to be admired. They may return with a vengence. Although there must be archive sound recordings and photos available for some reason.
Eastfield ( More Info.) : This group is still proactive and is procreating new ideas. Have a relationship with Blithe Power.. I've seen them play at the Acton Arms, Kingsland Road, Hackney ( now closed). They were great! Lots of energy and vitality which contributed to the entertainment. They've done a number of benefits and are on the whole a generous bunch. I believe there's a lot of video footage and sound recordings of their stuff.
Fetch, the*: Came into Hackney for a one off benefit concert at the Acton Arms, Kingsland road in 1996. Quite a progressive English/Irish folk group that were playing mainly on the fringe. Very impressive stuff mixing traditional folk instruments with some modern keyboard effects. Also lovely vocals from the two women in the band a fantastic blend of harmonies. Instruments included a malodian, violins… various percusion, flute… this all washed down with the guiness and polemics of the bohemian/intellectual organisers was an evening to remember.John Ramirez , the main driving force behind the band went on to open a recording studio in Ipswich. The band released a number of recordings one of which consists of original material and traditional folk arrangements.
Fast and Loud: A band that knocked about from 1988 - 1989. Renowned for a gig in a church in Stoke Newington.. quite a crazy outfit.. a threesome.. Simon formerly of Simon's really fasts banging away on a drum kit.. Geoff Morgan thumping on the bass and screaching lots of lyrics..always looked drunk and mad dogs performance of a wild eyed monster with darren and his catchy licks diffusing the flatulence. Total flattery in all.They also did a gig at the old Salvation Army Hostel in Mare Street. Now still derelict and situated next to the new Ocean Venue. All in all about 15 months of their existence did count for something… Those present at those two places will never forget…The threesome moved onto other projects .. Simon left to open a vegan café in Preston and Darren slipped into design.
Recordings of this band were made,,, and could be made available on request…
Free State Prophets : Really worth a night out to see them. Andy formerly of the Pointees and numerous other Hackney underground bands is still as energetic as ever. Have gigged at the Arsenal Tavern and the Dublin Castle. Lead singer has a powerdful voice to say the least…plenty of passion and prophecies laced with the occasional polemic…But surely to encourage debate amongst their largely intellectual following…They are planning on releasing an album this year to coincide with their sporadic tour. Recently new in the bohemian scene apart from the ubiquitous Andy.
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Geoff Morgan Egotrip Experience, the
( More Info.) : This Ego-tistical display featured two Geoff Morgan's both from the sleepy South Wales town of Blackwood , made famous by the Manic Street preachers. One Geoff Morgan has moved back to Blackwood. Also in this flambouyant concoction was the Liquid Len Davies the ubiquitous drummer, whose father of the same name, was a well known "Bone percussionist" on the folk circuit. Len, unfortunately was involved in a tragic car crash in 1992 and has been in a coma since. He was sorely missed by the rest of the band and this lead to the premature end of the GMEE. The other member Mick Allen who played a violin bass is still at large and is now known as Michael Dow. He has his own comedy act and has made waves with his humour. The band played the Samuel Beckets in August 1990 with the Dick Ugly Ensemble whose career flourished after that magnaminous event. The GMEE made a number of sound redordings and photos are floating around of that gig. But since the early 1990's the members of that band have gone on to much more challenging things which have been in and around the Hackney Bohemia scene. The two Geoff Morgan's formed another band " The Lost Years. " There could be more in the 21st Century. But the band pays tribute to len Davies who gave a lot to the hackney Bohemia scene.
Gertrude ( More Info.) : A fabulous female band with a lot to say. Inspirational, certainly, especially for other up and coming female bands. One of my favorite Hackney bands at the moment. Some lovely Cello playing and lots of energetic drumming. Have recorded a number of tracks which can be obtained at their gigs and other unusual outlets online and real. They are active campaigners for a better world and are not afraid to voice their opinions. They make a handsome contribution to debates and are really worth seeing. They play quite a number of benefit gigs in venues such as Chats Palace. Have toured in the States and Europe. They also can be seen playing in some old obscure warehouse…and have not SOLD OUT to the big boys in the music biz. Good luck to them!
Glassglue
(More Info) Inspired by Marcel
Stoetzler these are an eccentric bunch of musicians who are beefier than
Beefheart and are taking the 21st century by storm. Stoetzler looks the part
funny hat 'N all.. he's also tall! Great stage presence and short sharp songs
that are quirky and work well. Are enthusiastic, intelligent, bright sharp,
concise and minimalistic in their no nonsense approach and are not ridden with
cliche.. They are well and striking chords in 2005. Based in hackney but play
everywhere Madman Marcel Stoetzler makes a striking frontman for this lot. Here
follows a brief comment by an anonymous fan:
"this oddball quartet from Weirdsville. He is superbly complemented
by the jagged, disjointed melodies of Matthew Karas on guitar, keyboards
and banjo and the untrippable rhythm section of Gianluca Galetti (bass) and
Duncan Goodhew lookalike Ravi Low-Beer (drums). Definitely one for fans of
Beefheart, Zappa and Tom Waits". For more info see http://disorientation.org/glassglue
Gretschen Hoffner: Very clever group of musicians who played a lot in Hackney in the early - mid 1990's. Their rockabily style incorporated chants of protest. Very popular with feminists and bucked the trend of this style of music by portraying a non macho style.. Their music was very appropriate for the era and it’s a pity they did not make more of themselves. The 'Get a job' mentality promulgated by tories and their jobs worth mentality forced such talent into menial boring jobs. These musicians always brought a smile to the audience. They played at venues such as the New Pegasus and Samuel Beckets in Stoke Newington, Hackney on a regular basis and could be seen at the legendary Cricketers pub in Stoke Newington. Overall they donned a fine attitude to life and were quite often proactive in campaigning for a better world. Certainly made great contributions to the Hackney Bohemian evolution. Also lovely hairdos and guitars. A number of recordings could be found somewhere I'm sure. The drummer 'Pinball Geoff' has played with another Hackney Band 'Bikini Beach' and is now playing with the Witch Doktors
Headjam : A groovy bohemian way of mixijng up music and conjuring a dub type idiosyncratic sound. Great stuff from these Bohemians who are intellectual and idealistic in their ourlook. Very much an undergorund band and play the notorious Arsenal Tavern. Would like to obtain some of their mechandise but where can one find a c,d. or recording of this brilliant band. Any ideas? Are definitely a cool enough band to entertain us throughout the first decade in the 21st century.. Watch out Hackney!
Headmix Collective (More Info.) : Have appeared in hackney on several occasions. Done benefits in strange places and are one of Rik's( the bearded wonder of sound engineering) favorite outfits. They have emerged during the last few years of the 20th century and are evolving into a very interesting bunch of muso's. Saw them at Glastonbury a couple of years ago and they whipped up a lot of soul and made me laugh a lot.
Idiot Strength: Emerged from the Blythe power crew. TV Smith of the Adverts fame was the singer and front man who organised this band during the late 1980's and early 1990's. Very original, 'Ziggy Pop' in style. Played a number of benefit gigs and the Samuel Beckets, Stoke Newington, a few times. I think but am not sure whether they played the New Pegasus (now closed) Stoke Newington. Quite a slick outfit and made strong statements with their lyrics. A sort of grunge, punk, jazz sound.
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Inner Terrestrials: These bastions of progressive punk reggae were bouncing in the 1990's. Mainly in the mold of Pain. Played am lot of benefit gigs including the Acton Arms in Hackney (well known underground venue of that time). They were prolific a huge set and the audience would crave more. They stood well outside the commercial circuit and were committed in challenging mainstream conventions with their polemics. Their lyrics offered good advice to wage slavers and ideas for a new breed of culture vultures. Many hotos no doubt exist along with sound recordings. Hopefully they will reform and nourish us again.
Jesus Underground : No longer playing together. But have influenced a number of bands. Were strong in the mid 1990's. The most weird sounds where perhaps Sun Ra meets Tom Waits at a punk gig. They played a number of benefit gigs in Hackney, as well as a number of interesting old buildings in that area. A great stage presence completely caked in mud. They certainly spooked me when I first saw them play.
Lolita Bleeds : A short career, early 1990's comprised mainly of Chris, guitarist, the 'bearded bohemian' and Andy, bassist from the Pointees and later of the Love Eggs. Both nurtured Lolita to produce an interesting set. Drum Machine and various guest keyboards and others created a catchy sound with interesting lyrics. Played the Samuel Beckets (Stoke Newington) quite a lot as well as other benefit concerts in interesting places. A sound recording is available ( although not commercially). I'd recommend a listen if you can obtain one. Certainly an original sound, perhaps where Kraftwork meets Nirvana. They disbanded in 1994, Chris went on to enjoy a very short solo career, playing benefit gigs at the Acton Arms, Hackney (Now closed) before becoming a dad.
Andy went on to play with the Love Eggs crew before becoming a dad. Andy is about to relaunch his music career. I hope he can try and get the Pointees to play again.
Long Decline, the (More Info.) : Vic Goddard (Subway Sect) Inspired Bohemia from this troop and Mark Perry of Alternative TV/Sniffin Glue fame played at the Notorious Acton Arms, Kingsland Road, Hackney on numerous occasions for benefits for pleasant causes. A very charitable band and interesting sound. Includes Rob Ugly of the Doleclaimers, violins mandolins and a sort of late 20th century Velvety Reedy sound and lyrics. Very much underground and urban in their set up. I suppose trying to cultivate a Hackney vernacular vibe. Sound recordings are available an other stuff as well. They have a web-site too. They are still playing gigs and recording and became prevalent in around 1996.
Lost Years, the : Three piece band aorund and about Hackney in the mid 1990's. Consisted of Paul Herrigan on double bass and the two Geoff morgans from the Geoff morgan Egotrip experience. Geoff Black Morgan on lead guitar with his zany monolithic licks and the other Geoff Morgan on ryhthym guitar chewing a harmonica and chanting lyrics about egg sandwiches and Canary Wharf another weird song about Oysters. Geoff Morgan alsso played the accordian which was to later take him into the Bon Bon Kaotikai fold of chaos. They played Molly Malones, The Dove Broadway Market, The Crown Whiston road and a number of squat cafes, Genuine Hackney Bohemians and photos and endless sound recordings exist. Had no commercial interest other than to enjoy the racket of their music and inspire others to take up the challenge of providing something different.
Love Eggs, the : Very proud grunge band based in Hackney in the nid - late 1980's also fastidious and angry in the 1990's. Played at the samuel Beckets loads of times. Did benefit gigs for many campaigns. Especially that awful Poll Tax.. Long haired and dread locked front man Mark. I remember him frenzied and out of control singing with frightening passion. Better than Nirvana..before Nirvana. Loads of electric eclectic energy.. Mark teamed up with Pointee's Andy in the Mid '90s and they continued to serenade Hackney at the Acton Arms, Dalston.. Committed to the purpose of enjoying themselves... they're all dads now so wait for the next generation. Sound recordings are available.. they've recorded stuff but remain largely un archived til now. Also video's are floating around as well as 100's of photos... Hope they'll play again some day!!!
Lurkio: Mainly spawned from the Lolita Bleeds but with ex-Pointees Andy triumphing with the idiosyncratic bass riffs. Fantstic sound played at the Hackney Marsh's festival in the late nineties but the sort of fizzled out. Maybe heralding the re-emergence of the Pointees.
Madagasca Breakout : A semi-serious punk band around in the mid 1980's playing gigs in squats especially the old Gas board place next to the Cricketers in Stoke Newington. Consisted of Egg Sandwich's and the Turk song. Also played in the 121 Railton Road anarchist Bookshop in Brixton. Geoff and Dave Williams ( Now in Rio in Brazil working with spoken word) were the hub of this trio. Usually played with a drummer from Simon's Really Fasts or the Pointees. Carried on until their sad demise in 1988.Also played at the Bird cage in Stoke Newington. This motley crew lived in squats on the famous Stamford Hill Estate. Their passion for anything vegan and their struggle against Thatcherism helped to provide the fodder and angst for their endeavours. As for sound recordings several were made. However none were released but there are a few, how can we call it, bootlegs floating around.. They even produced a tee shirt with a map of Madagasca.. designed by Nick Mead... a bohemian artist of that time. Dave's ex girlfriend Caroline was also a feature at the gigs with her amazing hairdo.
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More Organic Mayhem*: Very much a short stay Bohemian Band. Marcel Stoetzler on drums with his dashing clothes. Mike Limes and Geoff Morgan from Bon Bon Kaotikai arrived at Chats Palace in 2000. Probably one of the first Hackney gigs of the new century and Millenium. Geoff on accordian and Mike on Bass and acoustic guitar worked with Marcel to produce a wierd 'Penguin cafe sound. There are photos and a sample of sound recording. Their name pre-empted perhaps the anti globalisation May Day demonstration. Mayhem is now a much bandied about word. The band have not performed since then and the three some are engaged in a number of other interesting but equally Bohemian projects.
Geoff Morgan now plays music
with Siobhan Dowd the author of
A Swift Pure Cry.
Nurse Ratchet : Mainly the leftovers of Stokey band Lolita Bleeds. Pretty much the same sort of set up i.e. drum machine guitar and thumping bass. Bearded and Sun glasses Chris dressed in black. Andy later of Lurkio fame. Looked generally rather cool but an element of sardonic machoism in their performance. Nicely strung lyrics and some catchy riffs. Almost like nothing seen in hackney. However, real bohemians challenging the conventional pop world without subscribing to it.
Did benefit gigs played at the Acton Arms Hackney. Mainly mid 1990's. They had fun. No known recordings but there may be a few photos out there.
One Style MDV (More
Info) These have been around Hackney for a long time and have
contributed immensely to the culture of this Borough too. Have helped to inspire
young musicians to strive for something out of the ordinary. They have a new E.P.
released in 2004 which is worth getting. They will play for a long time into the
21st Century and keep the Function and unction of resistance. A well oiled
outfit!
Other Brothers * I remember them at Molly Malones just off Newington Green every Thursday and Friday night. Mainly during 1992- 1995. A wonderful candle lit venue providing some interesting acoustic arrangements of standards..both folk and Jazz and some amazing improvisation. A double bass player with a rockabilly haircut and other hairy characters indulged in this three course meal of vegan music washed down with stout. Often went on til the early hours which meant getting up for work the next day was a real chore. I'm not sure about sound recordings, photo's or vids. but believe they are still going.
provided much needed bohemian attitudes with their performance.
Pain A really classic punk band. Flourished in the 1990's and still going strong. Played numerous benefit gigs around Hackney. Fine lyrics and loads of energy. Have a number of albums available. Seek them out they are absolutely brilliant and will adorn any CD collection with that feeling that you have something special. Also go and see them live its a MUST.
Palookas, the: A long relationship with the Hackney Bohemia scene has indeed been enjoyed by this band since the early 1980's. Also very popular on mainland Europe.. But I remember them gracing stoke newington with their inventive show and sounds. They encouraged 'Isiah a local and much loved character to participate reading his poetry to the mesmeric beat of their music. Did gig after gig in the 1980's and helped to germinate the seeds of Hackney Bohemia. They are still around, a little older but with the same zest. Isiah passed away a number of years ago but will be remembered. Sound recordings, photos and videos of their stuff are no doubt floating around.. If you've something you're lucky. I have the memories.
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Pointees, the: In their heyday the late 1980's they played gig after gig in Hackney and elsewhere. Providing a sound which was well ahead of their time. They had no major influences. perhaps a late 20th century Velvet Underground. Their songs were original and the Rhythm very strong. Andy's bellowing bass coupled with Darren's eclectic drumming provided a very inspirational beat. Rob and Karen provided much of the strings. Rob's whining guitar conjured up ghoulish sounds reminding us of the Thatcher administration and of halloween. Karen's gothic vocals and catchy guitar riffs helped to diffuse the raw sound. But what I can remember is derelict warehouses in Hackney being filled by Boho's dancing and crying for more. Also a memorable tour to the North of England culminated in a mega maniac concert in Preston. The Pointees helped to inspire their following to produce much the same statements and character.. Who knows?? they may have been inspirational to one of the most successful grunge bands of the 1990's namely 'Nirvana'.
The Pointees did not see the point in releasing a commercially available album. However, they did record a large number of tracks which could be made available. They braved the 1980's but ran out of steam in the 1990's and disbanded. Darren is in Australia working with film, Karen is acting, Andy went to join Lolita Bleeds and then The Love Eggs. Rob is busy with formulating a new brand of music and is setting up an instruction manual for life a la Georges Perec. I look forward to the day when they come back together and blast us with their music. Rumour has it that they may be reforming, Rob Bramley the guitarist whose distinct and charismatic style distinguishes him from other muso's is getting ther ball rolling for a reunion.
Preacher Casey : Grew out of the Doleclaimers in March 2002. As Rob Traynor stated: " We've decided to change the name of the band from the Doleclaimers as most of us Aren't on the dole anymore and because we get completely blank looks from people under 30 when we say its a piss take of the Proclaimers. .......... So we've decided to call the band after a character from John Steinbeck's 'Grapes of Wrath', Preacher Casey. He's not actually that religious figure in the book, more of a rabble rousing wobbly like revolutionary, so we thought it might even encourage people to read the book which is brilliant, like ab American 'Ragged Trousered Philanthropists'. Anyway we hope you like, or grow to like the new name"
The new line up are set to play their first gig under the new name at UCL but will I'm sure be abound in Hackney Bohemia preaching their hearts out.
Rhythms of Resistance : The most recent genius to have sprung up in Hackney during the last year. Great Samba music and great fun to watch. Often seen on demos and possess a tremendous amount of soul. Made up of a collection of Hackney Bohemians and many surprises in their show. I saw them at the Anarchist Bookfair in the Camden centre during the autumn of this year 2001. They were simply fantastic. I'm sure there'll be sound recordings, videos and other stuff floating around before too long. Keep an eye out for this brave troop.
Seeds of Creation, the: Very much a band of the now closed Samuel Pepys. Lots of interesting arabic style music..sitars, tarabouka etc etc. played loads of gigs over the years at this memorable Bohemian venue. One could see them playing for hours from 9 P.M. til 1 a.m. A full clear sound and lots of zany rhythms. They have been very good since the mid 1990's and are still
Simons Really Fasts: Very vegan Band abound in the mid 1980's. Used to perform regularly at the Three Crowns in Stoke Newington. they donned the latest styles in punk hairdo's. Very organic punk band, well ahead of its time. They certainly were very entertaining and there are a number of audio tapes floating around of their album.. There was also a video made of the band in action, both on and off stage.
Storm: A band really worthy of a mention..In the early 1990's played a lot at the Samuel Beckets and other weird venues in Hackney. Fantastic acoustic/semi acoustic set with mandolins and guitars providing a progressive celtic sound. Quite new and inventive and as good as U2 in delivery of lyrics. A fine and memorable band..I know sound recordings, videos and photos were made.. They were the acoustic Bohemians that drew people from outside the borough to see and hear them.. A great act and their ideas of how to entertain were inspirational.
Suicidal Supermarket Trollies: A very exciting set up. Played a lot of gigs around the early to mid 1990's especially underground . Did squat ventues and were really at the hub of the Hackney Bohemia scene around this time. Were asscoiated with Ebo's Dread Messiah, and in tow their charismatic fun loving fun Lumpy who is to be scene at events Bohemian and wonderful.... believe there should be some sound recordings of their antics in attics somewhere.
Television Personalities, the : Good stuff in their time and around in Hackney during late 1980's early 1990's. A class act and great new wave/punk music. Did a number of venues in Hackney. I have vague memories of them though.
Tiger Lilies (More Info.) : Very Bohemian stuff. In fact marketed as such. Came to my attention in mid 1990's. Playing at venues such as the Dove and Samuel Pepys. Brechtian style performance. Double bass booming with the upper register being filled by the soprano male vocalist. Accordian too. Its hard to sing and play the accordion at the same time..a real circus act. Have done tours of mainland europe. Quite an inspirational outfit and contributed tto renewing the Bohemian scene. Sound recordings, videos and photos are commercially available.
Time Peace *: A unique set up originated in the late 1980's out of Dead Letter Office. Julian Wilmore once again heading the cast and his prolific song writing really taking on a leap forward. With Sheila the drummer at the helm. Geoff Morgan on the keyboard providing a catchy but manic melodies. Played the Squat of Mankind with a kind of chaos following them. They supported the Astronauts at this large dingey squatted venue in Hackney Central. They continued throughout the 1990's playing at a number of more conventional venues but still hanging in there on the Hackney Bohemian scene. Played the Crown on Whiston Road Hackney which was at that time attracting a number of bohos. They also palyed the 67a Mildmay Park squatted centre. Quite inspirational songs with lovely harmonies and lyrics which were intended to challenge the status quo and everything boring and tory. Julian is continuing to write and sing lots of interesting stuff. There are a number of sound recordings floating around and photos.
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Tofu Love Frogs, the* ( More Info.) Chris Tofu partly inspired this eager and energetic band to perform in a number of wild places at home and abroad. He now organises festivals with continental drifts. They have been a real influence on the underground scene in Hackney. Their music charmed hundreds of boho's . Playing in derelict buildings, run down pubs and occasionally the more conventional venue. They played in Blackwood Caerphilly Wales in the Miners Institute... A place recognised for the Manic Street Preachers. However these were better. They've some albums available and I can imagine some video recordings. They have been a great visual spectacle. Great percussion and catchy violin riffs. They're beat made it hard to resist dancing. Overall they set up a cool unfussy performance. Very much prevalent in the 1990's and inspired many bands to follow their example.. They gave the people of HACKNEY SOMETHING TO DANCE TO!
Tragic roundabout ( More Info.) : A humorous Hackney carousel of sound. Very good at getting people dancing. Olay at festivals in Hackney, derelict buildings and mostly at benefit gigs at Chats Palace. Wonderful accordion riffs and some beards.. clever sounds reminiscent of the catchy TV animation. Have been around since the mid - late 1990's and are still creating new and magical sounds. They are not really so tragic, however, and provide a lot of positive energy when they play.
Sound recordings, videos and photos are floating around...
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Triads, the: A very inspirational trio in their day. Around from the mid to late 1980's.. Blessed hackney with new ideas playing mainly in derelict buildings in that borough. great music and great show. Karen went on to join the Pointees.. now a career in acting and good at it too. The Triads played a heap of gigs and the three women chanted their songs and for me at that time were a refreshing change to male dominated guitar bands They helped kick start Hackney Bohemia and influenced a large number of young well educated people to take up the challenge.. Sound recordings are no doubt available as well as photos from that bygone age.
There'll never be days like those days!.
Ugly Beat, the: Absolutely brilliant in their day. This band evolved from the Dick Ugly Ensemble. The terrific twins Dick and Rob continued to manifest their satire and provide an insatiable appetite for creating an act sautéed with energy and sheer inspiration. The talented crew were endorsed by Marions magical sexy Saxophone. They toured Germany a couple of times taking with them an assortment of characters of the Reknaw variety. Played numerous benefit gigs and participated in many wonderful campaigns. A band renowned for their criticism of the Major administration in the early to mid '90's. certainly a very original and hard act to follow. Inspired by "the Blaggers" they continued to develop an original sound. Dick's twinkling keyboards were consistent and contributed to the satire of the polemically delivered lyrics. Much better and more thought provoking than the Manic Street Preachers. The Ugly Beat's endless sermons turned all who watched them into "Praying Mantises."
They recorded a number of albums. The two I managed to buy are still very much played. They are well produced and provide contribute valuably to an archive of that era of underground "Bohemian" music. I hope they manage to reform and invigorate us in the 21st century. See how they evolved
UK Subs( More Info.) : A truly great punk band. Very committed to songs of protest and have done hundreds of benefit gigs. Have been around since late 1970's. Now seen in Hackney playing at the Lord Cecil pub.. Have played the Pembury on numerous occasions. As ebullient as ever and still making statements about the dreadful state of conventional lifestyle. Not too much bogged down in dogma and have a very sardonic style to their performance. certainly not to be sniffed at and take their work seriously. great contributions made to the Bohemian scene in Hackney especially during the great squat era of the 1980's. They'll be around for some time I'm sure.
Walking Wounded: Very much veterans of the Hackney Bohemian scene. Have been playing for some time since early 1990's. Still doing the rounds but now play regularly at the Kings Head in Islington on the last Thursday of every month. A great act. Accordion being subverted and played well, violins vying for attention and a strange cross between a banjo and guitar. Could be called a Banj-tar. Music made up of a mixture of different sounds from Gypsy to folk. Very interesting scales and modes and great lyrics about Hackney and the challenges of living there. Have most definitely influenced the Hackney Bohemian Music scene with their sheer enthusiasm. A C.D. is available and it is excellent.
Zero Tolerance: Well they certainly take no prisoners when it comes to polemics. Their brash screaming voices sound the calling for u[p beat punks to do the same. No other punk band quite like them and are still strtting their stuff. Played a number of benefit gigs including the squatted Church on Church Steet Stoke Newington. Been around Hackney for a number of years and are really worth a watch. Have contributed to the decadence of Hackney Bohemia and still ranting on.
Sound recordings and photos are abound somewhere in the punk universe.
Zip Zip Undo Me: Belong to a sleazy time in the 1990's. I fact from 1990 - 1994. Remember them during the naughty tories back to basics nonsense. They took the piss and were absolutely brilliant. Mally strutting his stuff. The mustachioed chap from the Black mountains looked sexy and lots of young ladies and some young men drooled over his wiggling hips. A raunchy performing arts stunt excellent music for the rest of the band.. now playing with Bikini Beach.. provided sleazy guitar riffs thus providing a very apt sound track for Mallys dance routine. Played in hackney rather a lot both in derelict buildings and the likes of the Samuel beckets. Sound recordings, photos and videos were made of this audacious band.. helped inject a bit of pace and vitality into Hackney Bohemia...Wish they'd reappear.. that's for sure.
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Email: mailto:geoffmorgan@mistral.co.uk