ΒιΆΉΤΌΕΔ

Some have described 1976 as a Year Zero in Punk Rock. In capital letters, no less. A cut off point for records. No Elvis Beatles or the Rolling Stones, said the Clash. Yes, but some music did survive the cull and I don't mean the usual Stooges, New York Dolls and MC5 trinity. The Damned's New Rose opens with Dave Vanian asking the age old question β€œIs She Really Going Out With Him?” which is the opening line to the Shangri-La's 'Leader Of The Pack'.

Punk rock fans knew that The Shangri Las were cool – they didn't need to read it in NME. They just had to listen to the records. Of course, the New York Dolls began 'Trash' with another Shangri Las intro – β€œWhen I Say I'm In Love You'd Best Believe I'm In Love L-U-V' which is possibly where the Damned got the idea. I live in hope that some band will start a record with someone saying 'I've Got A Cousin Called Kevin'. I may be waiting some time.

Μύ

Damned – New Rose
X Ray Spex – Germ Free Adolescence
Orange Juice – Louise Louise
Adam & Ants – Catholic Day
Buzzcocks – Friends Of Mine
Swell Maps – Spitfire Parade
Records – Starry Eyes
Jelly Babies – Roller Skate
Feelies – Moscow Nights
Farmers Boys – Something I Ate
Victims – Television Addict
Lori & The Chameleons – Touch
Talking Heads – Warning Sign
Velvet Underground – Run Run Run Μύ

Μύ