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| Ian Stuart Donaldson & Kevin Turner of Skullhead |
Skrewdriver were an English Rock Against Communism band formed by Ian Stuart Donaldson in Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire in 1976. Originally a non-racist punk band that was very influential to later Oi! bands, Skrewdriver changed into a white supremacist rock band after reuniting in the 1980s. Their original line-up split in January 1979 and Donaldson reformed the band with different musicians in 1982. The new version of the band played a leading role in the Rock Against Communism movement.
Ian Stuart Donaldson, formerly of the cover band Tumbling Dice, formed Skrewdriver as a punk rock band in Poulton-le-Fylde in 1976. At first, Skrewdriver sported a punk appearance, but they later changed their image to a skinhead look. In 1978, Donaldson moved to Manchester, where he recruited guitarist Glenn Jones and drummer Martin Smith. With Kevin MacKay on bass, this lineup toured extensively and built a strong following, but certain venues were reluctant to book the band because of their reputation as a violent skinhead band. Performing largely for a skinhead audience, the first versions of the band released one album and two singles on Chiswick Records. Skrewdriver briefly adopted a rocker/biker-influenced look around the time they released the EP Built Up Knocked Down (1979).Donaldson resurrected the band name Skrewdriver in 1982 with a new band line-up. Although the original band had a minor reputation for attracting violence at their concerts Boomtown Rats frontman Bob Geldof was reportedly knocked unconscious by a friend of Donaldson who believed that Skrewdriver's sound had been sabotaged they did not openly support any political ideology or organisation.
The re-formed Skrewdriver eventually became openly supportive of white nationalist groups, after a lengthy period of publicly denying such support. The band released the single "White Power" in 1983 and their second album, Hail the New Dawn, in 1984. Although both Skrewdriver and the band Sham 69 had skinhead followings and racist fans early in their careers, Sham 69 denounced racism and performed at Rock Against Racism concerts. Donaldson eventually aligned himself with neo-Nazism, saying: "I would describe myself as a British National Socialist, not a German one, and so don't think I'm at odds with British patriots."The band became associated with the National Front and British National Party, raising funds for them (and affiliated organisations) through the White Noise record label. They released records on Rock-O-Rama, a label that became known for National Socialist sympathies. Skrewdriver was instrumental in setting up Blood & Honour, a neo-Nazi music promotion network.
Donaldson died on 24 September 1993 following a car crash. His death catalyzed the demise of Skrewdriver, and had a strong impact in the white power rock scene. John "Grinny" Grinton died from cancer in June 2005.
Skullhead got their start in 1984 in the Newcastle area. Labeled as a R.A.C. or White-Power band by most, front-man Kevin Turner frequently referred to Skullhead as a third party band. With elements of Oi!, Rock n' Roll, and Heavy Metal, their sound was very unique for the time and culture. Having ties with the National Front, and White Noise, Skullhead began to make waves quickly in the WP scene, gaining friendships with other bands, such as Skrewdriver, and Brutal Attack.
Skullhead had close ties with the short lived zine "Unity", who gave exposure to new and upcoming R.A.C. bands, and shared there beliefs in Odinism. The main contributor to Unity would end up being arrested some time in the early 90's, and would forfeit the few existing copies to be burned.Some time in the late 80's or early 90's Kevin Turner served time at Acklington Prison, for assault on a man in Consett, UK.
After the band called in quits in 1994, the members all went separate ways; Nick went on to play in some ska bands, Tim looks like he went on to play in some shitty ballad rock band, Spin went on to play in a very popular Street Rock n' Roll band(I would rather not say the name because I know they try to keep it toned down), and Kevin Turner probably went the most separate way by becoming a Techno MC. Going by the name MC Techno T, Kevin Turner would do his best attempt to rap over techno beats. In September of 2001, a British news paper outed Techno T to his fans, saying their favorite MC is actually the front-man of a very popular white-power band. A spokesman for "Tyne and Wear Anti-Fascist Association" would go one to say "We welcome the exposure of Kevin Turner who is known to have a history of race hate."
Turner would give "Skullhead" a rebirth in 2002, with all new members, and stance that he said was not political in anyway. Kevin Turner is now a Buddhist and operates a tattoo parlor in Newcastle. I'm not sure if he has any plans to bring Skullhead back to life, but if he does, he's got plenty of support from me.
Line-Up (1984-1994, 2001-2002): Kevin Turner, founder and singer: Tim Ward, guitar: Spin Brown, bass: Nick Shaw, drummer:
Line-Up (2002)- Kevin Turner, founder and singer: Frazer: Robinson, guitar (ex-Warhammer): Russ, guitar (ex-Toy Dolls & ex-The Meteors): Sticks, drummer (ex-Strikeforce UK & ex-The Whisky Priests).
Undoubtedly, Skullhead remains one of the highest quality, innovative and valuable bands in the history of the NS/WP scene in Europe and around the world!
No Remorse
In 1991 No Remorse played in Brandenburg, Germany. This concert was the largest ever the band had played to. Later that year Aussie Nigel Brown (Celtic Warrior, Ravens Wing, Wolfseye) joined the band. In 1992, No Remorse was scheduled to hold a concert in Spain with the Welsh band Violent Storm. When they arrived in Spain, they received word of the death of all Violent Storm band members except the singer, and they dedicated the concert to their memory. Again in 1992 they accompanied the Swedish band Dirlewanger at another Brandenburg concert festival. In September they traveled to California again with Dirlewanger, where they performed together and recorded the album Desert Storm. In 1993, No Remorse performed in Czechoslovakia, where they were the first non-Czech RAC related band to play in Czechoslovakia. Later they also played in Poland with Konkwista 88. In November 1993, No Remorse played a gig in London and performed their tribute song, The Flame That Never Dies. Which was written for and about Ian Stuart Donaldson who died the month previous. In April 1994, Farewell Ian Stuart was recorded, and they signed with Nordland Records and Movement Records. Under Nordland Records, they recorded the album Under The Gods. Later that year, they performed at a tribute to Ian Stuart in Racine, Wisconsin, USA. accompanied by Bound for Glory, Centurion, RaHoWa and Berserkr. Following the concert, Joe Rowan, singer of Nordic Thunder, was murdered at a petrol/gas station.In 1995, Nordland Records released Under The Gods, and Resistance Records released The Best of No Remorse. Which was a total new re-recording of their songs. Movement Records encountered economic troubles and sold the band rights to the album Skinhead Army to Nordland Records. Paul took part in a Channel 4 (UK) documentary called World Of Skinhead. This was originally scheduled to be shown as part of a "Skinhead evening" of TV programmes. In this, Paul represented the "far-fight" viewpoint of skinheads. In 1996, The Winning Hand (the re-named version of European Skinhead Army) was released. Paul with the Swedish band Svastika recorded a project album called Carry The Flame, under the band name Kindred Spirit. On the 1st November 1996, ten years after being with the band, Paul Burnley decided to leave the band No Remorse. At the same time another band was started under the name "No Remorse" but with Big Jacko on vocals. They released a sub-quality album called Barbecue in Rostock. Whilst having extreme lyrics the quality of the recording was nothing like the original band. With a few more releases this band continued for a few more years. But many people believe that the history of No Remorse ended with Paul Burnley leaving the band.
After No Remorse, Paul released a CD under the band name No Fear titled Still Got The Power with the musician Nigel Brown in 1999. In 2000 Paul did the voice-over to a CD titled Skrewdriver The Rockumentary via Migard Records. This charted the rise and end of Skrewdriver and Ian Stuart. In 2002 Paul Burnley wrote the book "Nazi Rock Star" about the life of Ian Stuart and Skrewdriver under the author name Paul London. This was produced by the Swedish label Midgard. Since then Paul has disappeared from the "scene". Paul Burnley also sang in the project bands of Public Enemy, No Fear, Kindred Spirit, Stormbringer and Paul Burnley & The Fourth Reich.
Brutal Attack
They reformed as a skinhead band in 1983. The line-up in 1984 was McLellan, vocals, John Whittington on guitar, Andy Nun on bass and Andrew Christopher on drums. The line-up for their debut album 'Stronger Than Before' was McLellan vocals, Paul Thornton on bass, John Whittington on guitar and Tony Tompkins on drums. Thornton left after breaking his leg and due to complications he had to have it re-broken, and re-set twice. He was replaced by Martin Cross. Tompkins left to join the army, he was replaced by Len Fleckney. The line-up for the 'As The Drum Beats' LP was McLellan, vocals, Sean Heywood on guitar, Martin Cross on bass and Len Fleckney on drums. The line-up for the 'Tales of Glory' LP was McLellan, vocals, Martin Cross on guitar, Tony Priddy on guitar, Darren McEvilly (Flubs) on bass and Len Fleckney on drums.
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The band's next release - Into Apocalypse, was meant to be a side project but ROR decided to release it as a Brutal Attack album. It is a standard rock album and not political. The line-up for this LP was McLellan vocals, Steve Kiraly on guitar, Ian Campbell on bass and Len Fleckney on drums. The 1993/94 line-up was McLellan, vocals, Danny Hooper on guitar, Merv Sheilds on bass and Timm Dogg on drums. The winter 1994 line-up was McLellan, vocals, Stigger on guitar, Jim on bass and Jim [a different one] on drums. The line-up for the 1995 album'Valliant Heart', was McLellan, vocals, Danny Hooper on guitar, Brad on bass and Jimmy on drums. The line-up for the 'Battle Anthem' album, recorded in 1995, was McLellan, vocals, Danny Hooper on guitar, Terry Moran on bass and Fred Cresswell on drums. The line-up for the 1996 album 'For The Fallen And The Free' album was McLellan, vocals, Dan Valiant on guitar, Jock on guitar, Terry Moran on bass and Fred Cresswell on drums. The line-up for the 1998 album 'When Odin Calls' was McLellan, vocals, Danny Hooper on guitar, Terry Moran on bass, Fred Cresswell on drums and Ollie Magoo on keyboards and accordion. The line-up for the 2000 album 'Always Outnumbered Never Outgunned' album was McLellan, vocals, Matt Duffy on guitar, Roly on bass and Blakey on drums. The line-up for their 2006 album 'Thunder And Lightening' was McLellan, vocals, Paul on guitar and David Blakey on drums.
The 4-Skins
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4-Skins is not Apolitical, they Never Were! They are a Far-right Oi! band. To this day, the band maintains very good and friendly relations with the old members of Skrewdriver, No Remorse and Ken Mclellan & Brad from Brutal Attack.
The 4-Skins are a working class Oi! band from East London, England. Originally composed of Gary Hodges on vocals, 'Hoxton' Tom McCourt on guitar, Steve 'H' Hamer on bass and Gary Hitchcock on drums, they formed in 1979 and by 1984 had broke up. Although new line-ups formed in 2007 and 2008. Initially the band members had known each other from football, or from following bands such as Sham 69 and Menace. Most of the original four band members were or had been skinheads. Hence the name. However, Steve Pear had a rockabilly style, and Hoxton Tom McCourt was a suedehead.The first line up was Hoxton Tom McCourt on guitar, Gary Hodges on vocals, Steve H Harmer on bass and Gary Hitchcock on drums. This lasted from 1979 to 1980 and in 1980 to 1981 saw Steve H Harmer replaced on guitar by Steve Pear and Gary Hitchcock replaced on drums by John Jacobs. From 1981 to 1983 Tony (Panther) Cummins took over vocals and Pete Abbot came in on drums. This line up was used for the 1982 LP The Good, The Bad and The 4 Skins. The last early days line up from 1983 to 1984 was Hoxton Tom on bass, Roi Pearce on vocals, Paul Swain on guitar, and Ian Bramson on drums. This line up was on the From Chaos to 1984 album.
The 2007 line up was Gary Hodges on vocals, Steve H Harmer on bass, with Mick Geggus on guitar and Andy Russell on drums. The following year in 2008, the line up had changed to Graham Bacon on bass, Tom Brennan on guitar and Sedge Swatton on drums. Prior to the release of the band's debut single, One Law For Them, The 4-Skins contributed songs to the first three Oi! compilation albums, alongside bands such asCockney Rejects, Cock Sparrer, and The Business. The 4-Skins went through many personnel changes during their five-year existence, with only bassist/songwriter 'Hoxton' Tom McCourt being present in every line-up of the band. Other former members include Roi Pearce, who was also the frontman of The Last Resort, and Paul Swain, a guitarist who later joined Skrewdriver.
In 2007, the band reformed with two original members, lead singer Gary Hodges and bassist Steve 'H' Harmer, plus guitarist Mick Geggus and drummer Andy Russell of Cockney Rejects. This line-up recorded two songs, Chaos 2007 and Glory Days for the compilation album Kings Of Streetpunk, released by the independent record label G&R London. 2008 saw Hodges form a new version of the band under the name Gary Hodges' 4-Skins, featuring Indecent Exposure members Tom Brennan on guitar, Graham Bacon on and Sedge Swatton on drums. This line-up played three gigs In Berlin at the Punk and Disorderly festival, in Allentown, PA at the East Coast Oi Fest and as the headlining act on the final day of the Blackpool Rebellion punk festival in August 2008. Two newly-recorded tracks were also released for free on The 4-Skins' official web page. Both were covers of Slade songs – Cum on Feel the Noize and Thanks for the Memories. Following this, the band decided to continue recording and touring. On 4 April 2010, they released a studio album, The Return, on German label, Randale Records.
Razors Edge
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Formed in 1990 in Birmingham, England. Over the years, the band has changed many of its members, but two of the founders and Sid (drums) and Andy (vocals) remain an integral part of the band.
Their first live performances began in 1991, as a warming band for Skrewdriver concerts. They also play with No Remorse, Violent Storm, Celtic Warrior and other legendary RAC bands, not only from the UK, but from around the world. In 1996, ISD Records released their album, Whatever It Takes, the eponymous song of which became the anthem of Kombat 18.
In 1997, their guitarist Martin Cross (ex Skrewdriver) was sentenced to life in prison for complicity (along with Charlie Sergeant) in the killing of K18 activist Chris Castle. In 2002, they recorded "Stick to your Guns" for Germany's "Hatesounds Records", and shortly after the release of the album, the label's owner was revealed to be a police agent.
The band's songs are included in all five parts of the Blood & Honor compilation, making two splits with the Hate Society and the Breakdown Germans. They also play in the US at 'Nordic Fest 2005' and are the first English WP band to perform in Northern Ireland and Serbia. In recent years, the band has mostly recorded with guest musicians from Germany.
Andy's latest vocal projects are two. The Übertones with whom he released the album Mad Vendetta in 2014, and his other music project is called IC1, along with musicians from Carpe Diem, such as the recently released album Truth Will Out! (2019) enjoys many positive reviews from NS fans. The band has released three more albums: Out Of Control (2008) - Loud And Proud (2012) - Based On A True Story
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A Coalville (Leicestershire) based Oi! band, formed in 1987. Originally called White Aggression but months before their first concert they changed their name to English Rose when it was realised a Swedish skinhead band was using the same name. The original line-up was Jonesy, vocals, Mick on guitar, Dean Porter on guitar, Spen on bass and Blakey on drums. Jonesy and Spen had both been in Oi! band British Born. Porter didn't last long in the band. This line-up recorded an eight-track demo, which was sold on the scene and sent to a few labels. The label that showed most interest was Rebelles Europeens and after a few letters and phone calls a deal was struck to record. The first release was a single called 'Proud Nationalist Warriors', which was released in 1989. The next recording session was also for Rebelles Europeens in which four songs were recorded. 'Warriors Of The Rose' and 'Stop The Invasion' were released in 1992 on the 'Last Chance' compilation album. The other two tracks 'We're Back' and 'Justice-There's No Justice' were meant for volume 2 but it was never released. By this time Mick had left the band and a new guitarist was found by the name of Guiness, he played a handful of gigs and started recording the new album 'Never Be Silenced' before leaving the band following an incident with a gang of immigrants and a spell in prison.
The album was completed with the help of former guitarist Mick and released by Rebelles Europeens in 1992. The band was out of action for a while until along came a local ex-punk called Steve. Some practice sessions were arranged and the result was a new CD called 'The Flame Still Burns' released by German label Skull Records. Steve quit, he was replaced by Martin Cross. They went into the studio to record four new songs, the first two 'You Know Our Name' and 'Voice Of The Right' were released by ISD Records on 'Blood And Honour Volume 1'. The other two tracks 'Choose Your Side' and 'White And Proud' were released on a single by French label Boha Records. This is when Martin Cross quit to join Razors Edge. He was replaced in 1995 by Dirk, ex-Close Shave. They went into the studio again to record six new songs for various labels. The first two songs were 'Feel Our Power - Feel Our Force' and 'Our Nation' and were released on the Polish label Thor Records. The next two songs, 'One Mission' and 'By Any Means', were released by Nordland Records. The last two songs were recorded for ISD Records but have never been released by them following their falling out. Those tracks were 'Cheers, Thanks And All The Best' and a cover of Skrewdriver's 'Blood And Honour'. In late '95 they split from the Combat 18 controlled Blood & Honour organisation. 1996 saw the band go through a line-up change, this time bass player Spen decided to leave the band to give one hundred percent to his wife and children. There was more studio time lined up, but this time they called on the help of Brad of Squadron to stand in on bass so they could record three tracks for 'Justice', a compilation CD to raise money for prisoners. It was released by French label BoHa Records. The three songs they contributed were 'We'll Overcome', originally recorded by French skinhead band Legion 88, 'Blood, Honour, Pride And Faith' and 'Segregation'.
The band once again had a full line-up when Stinko, ex-Celtic Warrior, joined the band on a part-time basis, which turned out in the end to be full-time and it wasn't too long before the band was back up and playing live in Britain and Europe. The band decided it was time to record a full length CD, the result being 'Dreams Of Freedom'. They felt let down by the studio and the engineer. They wanted to go back and remix the songs but the studio had already recorded over the master tapes. The same line-up travelled out to Germany together in January '97 to a private birthday party and played a live set that was probably one of the best they had ever played. This set was recorded and one year later and after a bit of editing to remove what can only be described as politically incorrect songs and rantings, the 'Live In Deutschland '97' was released by Movement Records. Stinko later died of cancer. Back in the early '90s they travelled with Squadron to Germany for a gig but were stopped by police on the motorway about an hour after landing. They thought it was just a routine check but they were made to leave the van and strip on the side of the road. They were held for a number of hours so the gig couldn't go ahead and then they were released. One gig they didn't get to finish was in Germany as a memorial to Stinko. The police raided the hall half way through their set in riot gear and a riot ensued. They joined the anti-Combat 18 faction in 1996 and set up their own self-named label in the same year. Graham (from Avalon) became the second guitarist. But due to the departure of Chris Telford the bassist, Graham became the bassist. Their final line-up was Jonesy, vocals, Tom, former guitarist with Whitelaw, on guitar, Graham on bass and Blakey on drums. Sisco was a one-time member of the band. As of 2003 they officially became a recording project. In May 2005 Jonesy reformed English Rose with a Hungarian backing band and played a gig in Flanders.
Combat 84
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Combat 84 were an English Oi! band active during the early 1980s. Formed in 1981 in Chelsea,London by skinheads 'Chubby' Chris Henderson and 'Deptford' John Armitage, Combat 84 rose to national prominence after being featured in a controversial 1982 BBC Arena documentary about the skinhead movement.
The band was originally composed of Chris Henderson (vocals), 'Deptford' John Armitage (bass guitar), Jim (guitar) and Brownie (drums) and played their first gig supporting The Last Resort at the Walmer Castle, Peckham. The Last Resort's lead singer, Roi Pearce (later of The 4-Skins) liked the band and agreed to produce a two-song demo tape with them. These sessions resulted in the songs "Soldier" and "Combat 84", which were favourably received in the music press, leading to the band being described as 'the new Sham 69'.
In 1982, the manager of The 4-Skins, Gary Hitchcock attempted to get the band signed to Secret Records, then home to The 4-Skins, The Business, Infa Riot and The Exploited, although the deal fell through at the last minute, prompting Combat 84 to sign to Victory Records for the release of their Orders of the Day EP.[2] Former Business drummer John Fisher replaced Brownie for the recording of the second (1983) EP, Rapist. More right-leaning, lyrically than many of their punk rock and Oi! peers, Combat 84 received much criticism for recording a song that advocated capital punishment for rapists ("Rapist"), and a song that supported nuclear weapons and criticized the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) and reds ("Right to Choose"). Guitarist Jim stated in a 2000 interview that the latter song was intended in a tongue-in-cheek manner, and as a homage to Vietnam War movies. Other lyrical themes included unemployment, inner-city violence, war, and slavish followers of fashion. Controversy erupted around the band after they were featured in a 1982 BBC Arena documentary, during which Henderson made racist comments. His views were not shared by the other band members; in the same documentary, 'Deptford' John commented on the similarity in living situation between black and white working-class youths in early 1980s Britain.
Footage of crowd violence at a gig was also broadcast in the documentary. This led to the breakup of the band, as their newly-earned bad reputation discouraged venues from booking the band. Gigs were then often played under the pseudonym The 7th Cavalry to avoid the stigma of the Combat 84 name. Victory Records, wanting little to do with the band at this point, compiled an album of studio recordings (intended for the band's debut album) and bootleg-quality live tracks and licensed it to German label Rock-O-Rama Records for release as Send in the Marines in 1984. The record was disowned by the band, which split up soon after. In the intervening years, Combat 84 were frequently labelled as a neo-Nazi, white power or Rock Against Communism (RAC) band, a charge which has been denied by 'Deptford' John and Jim, noting that the band's songs contained no racist lyrics, nor were they ever aligned with any far-right political party, although 'Deptford' John noted in a 2001 interview with the "Pissed and Proud" fanzine that he believes in free speech and whilst not supporting it, that RAC music should be allowed a platform - as "people should be allowed to say what they want". 'Deptford' John and Jim went on to roadie for and play with the U.K. Subs and The Exploited, and John Fisher played with former members of The Last Resort in The Warriors. After retiring from the music business, Chris Henderson became more involved with football hooliganism, and eventually led the Chelsea Headhunters in the mid-to-late 1980s, writing the book Who Wants it? about his experiences with Colin Ward. He now owns a bar in Thailand. In 2000, the band reformed without Henderson for the release of the Tooled Up EP, released on their own 7th Cavalry record label. 'Deptford' John took over vocal duties, with Jim on guitar, and 'F.T.' and 'Suds' on bass and drums respectively.
The 4-Skins
The 4-Skins are a working class Oi! band from East London, England. Originally composed of Gary Hodges on vocals, 'Hoxton' Tom McCourt on guitar, Steve 'H' Hamer on bass and Gary Hitchcock on drums, they formed in 1979 and by 1984 had broke up. Although new line-ups formed in 2007 and 2008. Initially the band members had known each other from football, or from following bands such as Sham 69 and Menace. Most of the original four band members were or had been skinheads. Hence the name. However, Steve Pear had a rockabilly style, and Hoxton Tom McCourt was a suedehead.The first line up was Hoxton Tom McCourt on guitar, Gary Hodges on vocals, Steve H Harmer on bass and Gary Hitchcock on drums. This lasted from 1979 to 1980 and in 1980 to 1981 saw Steve H Harmer replaced on guitar by Steve Pear and Gary Hitchcock replaced on drums by John Jacobs. From 1981 to 1983 Tony (Panther) Cummins took over vocals and Pete Abbot came in on drums. This line up was used for the 1982 LP The Good, The Bad and The 4 Skins. The last early days line up from 1983 to 1984 was Hoxton Tom on bass, Roi Pearce on vocals, Paul Swain on guitar, and Ian Bramson on drums. This line up was on the From Chaos to 1984 album.
The 2007 line up was Gary Hodges on vocals, Steve H Harmer on bass, with Mick Geggus on guitar and Andy Russell on drums. The following year in 2008, the line up had changed to Graham Bacon on bass, Tom Brennan on guitar and Sedge Swatton on drums. Prior to the release of the band's debut single, One Law For Them, The 4-Skins contributed songs to the first three Oi! compilation albums, alongside bands such asCockney Rejects, Cock Sparrer, and The Business. The 4-Skins went through many personnel changes during their five-year existence, with only bassist/songwriter 'Hoxton' Tom McCourt being present in every line-up of the band. Other former members include Roi Pearce, who was also the frontman of The Last Resort, and Paul Swain, a guitarist who later joined Skrewdriver.
In 2007, the band reformed with two original members, lead singer Gary Hodges and bassist Steve 'H' Harmer, plus guitarist Mick Geggus and drummer Andy Russell of Cockney Rejects. This line-up recorded two songs, Chaos 2007 and Glory Days for the compilation album Kings Of Streetpunk, released by the independent record label G&R London. 2008 saw Hodges form a new version of the band under the name Gary Hodges' 4-Skins, featuring Indecent Exposure members Tom Brennan on guitar, Graham Bacon on and Sedge Swatton on drums. This line-up played three gigs In Berlin at the Punk and Disorderly festival, in Allentown, PA at the East Coast Oi Fest and as the headlining act on the final day of the Blackpool Rebellion punk festival in August 2008. Two newly-recorded tracks were also released for free on The 4-Skins' official web page. Both were covers of Slade songs – Cum on Feel the Noize and Thanks for the Memories. Following this, the band decided to continue recording and touring. On 4 April 2010, they released a studio album, The Return, on German label, Randale Records.
Their first live performances began in 1991, as a warming band for Skrewdriver concerts. They also play with No Remorse, Violent Storm, Celtic Warrior and other legendary RAC bands, not only from the UK, but from around the world. In 1996, ISD Records released their album, Whatever It Takes, the eponymous song of which became the anthem of Kombat 18.
In 1997, their guitarist Martin Cross (ex Skrewdriver) was sentenced to life in prison for complicity (along with Charlie Sergeant) in the killing of K18 activist Chris Castle. In 2002, they recorded "Stick to your Guns" for Germany's "Hatesounds Records", and shortly after the release of the album, the label's owner was revealed to be a police agent.
The band's songs are included in all five parts of the Blood & Honor compilation, making two splits with the Hate Society and the Breakdown Germans. They also play in the US at 'Nordic Fest 2005' and are the first English WP band to perform in Northern Ireland and Serbia. In recent years, the band has mostly recorded with guest musicians from Germany.
Andy's latest vocal projects are two. The Übertones with whom he released the album Mad Vendetta in 2014, and his other music project is called IC1, along with musicians from Carpe Diem, such as the recently released album Truth Will Out! (2019) enjoys many positive reviews from NS fans. The band has released three more albums: Out Of Control (2008) - Loud And Proud (2012) - Based On A True Story
English Rose
A Coalville (Leicestershire) based Oi! band, formed in 1987. Originally called White Aggression but months before their first concert they changed their name to English Rose when it was realised a Swedish skinhead band was using the same name. The original line-up was Jonesy, vocals, Mick on guitar, Dean Porter on guitar, Spen on bass and Blakey on drums. Jonesy and Spen had both been in Oi! band British Born. Porter didn't last long in the band. This line-up recorded an eight-track demo, which was sold on the scene and sent to a few labels. The label that showed most interest was Rebelles Europeens and after a few letters and phone calls a deal was struck to record. The first release was a single called 'Proud Nationalist Warriors', which was released in 1989. The next recording session was also for Rebelles Europeens in which four songs were recorded. 'Warriors Of The Rose' and 'Stop The Invasion' were released in 1992 on the 'Last Chance' compilation album. The other two tracks 'We're Back' and 'Justice-There's No Justice' were meant for volume 2 but it was never released. By this time Mick had left the band and a new guitarist was found by the name of Guiness, he played a handful of gigs and started recording the new album 'Never Be Silenced' before leaving the band following an incident with a gang of immigrants and a spell in prison.The album was completed with the help of former guitarist Mick and released by Rebelles Europeens in 1992. The band was out of action for a while until along came a local ex-punk called Steve. Some practice sessions were arranged and the result was a new CD called 'The Flame Still Burns' released by German label Skull Records. Steve quit, he was replaced by Martin Cross. They went into the studio to record four new songs, the first two 'You Know Our Name' and 'Voice Of The Right' were released by ISD Records on 'Blood And Honour Volume 1'. The other two tracks 'Choose Your Side' and 'White And Proud' were released on a single by French label Boha Records. This is when Martin Cross quit to join Razors Edge. He was replaced in 1995 by Dirk, ex-Close Shave. They went into the studio again to record six new songs for various labels. The first two songs were 'Feel Our Power - Feel Our Force' and 'Our Nation' and were released on the Polish label Thor Records. The next two songs, 'One Mission' and 'By Any Means', were released by Nordland Records. The last two songs were recorded for ISD Records but have never been released by them following their falling out. Those tracks were 'Cheers, Thanks And All The Best' and a cover of Skrewdriver's 'Blood And Honour'. In late '95 they split from the Combat 18 controlled Blood & Honour organisation. 1996 saw the band go through a line-up change, this time bass player Spen decided to leave the band to give one hundred percent to his wife and children. There was more studio time lined up, but this time they called on the help of Brad of Squadron to stand in on bass so they could record three tracks for 'Justice', a compilation CD to raise money for prisoners. It was released by French label BoHa Records. The three songs they contributed were 'We'll Overcome', originally recorded by French skinhead band Legion 88, 'Blood, Honour, Pride And Faith' and 'Segregation'.
The band once again had a full line-up when Stinko, ex-Celtic Warrior, joined the band on a part-time basis, which turned out in the end to be full-time and it wasn't too long before the band was back up and playing live in Britain and Europe. The band decided it was time to record a full length CD, the result being 'Dreams Of Freedom'. They felt let down by the studio and the engineer. They wanted to go back and remix the songs but the studio had already recorded over the master tapes. The same line-up travelled out to Germany together in January '97 to a private birthday party and played a live set that was probably one of the best they had ever played. This set was recorded and one year later and after a bit of editing to remove what can only be described as politically incorrect songs and rantings, the 'Live In Deutschland '97' was released by Movement Records. Stinko later died of cancer. Back in the early '90s they travelled with Squadron to Germany for a gig but were stopped by police on the motorway about an hour after landing. They thought it was just a routine check but they were made to leave the van and strip on the side of the road. They were held for a number of hours so the gig couldn't go ahead and then they were released. One gig they didn't get to finish was in Germany as a memorial to Stinko. The police raided the hall half way through their set in riot gear and a riot ensued. They joined the anti-Combat 18 faction in 1996 and set up their own self-named label in the same year. Graham (from Avalon) became the second guitarist. But due to the departure of Chris Telford the bassist, Graham became the bassist. Their final line-up was Jonesy, vocals, Tom, former guitarist with Whitelaw, on guitar, Graham on bass and Blakey on drums. Sisco was a one-time member of the band. As of 2003 they officially became a recording project. In May 2005 Jonesy reformed English Rose with a Hungarian backing band and played a gig in Flanders.
Combat 84
The band was originally composed of Chris Henderson (vocals), 'Deptford' John Armitage (bass guitar), Jim (guitar) and Brownie (drums) and played their first gig supporting The Last Resort at the Walmer Castle, Peckham. The Last Resort's lead singer, Roi Pearce (later of The 4-Skins) liked the band and agreed to produce a two-song demo tape with them. These sessions resulted in the songs "Soldier" and "Combat 84", which were favourably received in the music press, leading to the band being described as 'the new Sham 69'.
In 1982, the manager of The 4-Skins, Gary Hitchcock attempted to get the band signed to Secret Records, then home to The 4-Skins, The Business, Infa Riot and The Exploited, although the deal fell through at the last minute, prompting Combat 84 to sign to Victory Records for the release of their Orders of the Day EP.[2] Former Business drummer John Fisher replaced Brownie for the recording of the second (1983) EP, Rapist. More right-leaning, lyrically than many of their punk rock and Oi! peers, Combat 84 received much criticism for recording a song that advocated capital punishment for rapists ("Rapist"), and a song that supported nuclear weapons and criticized the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND) and reds ("Right to Choose"). Guitarist Jim stated in a 2000 interview that the latter song was intended in a tongue-in-cheek manner, and as a homage to Vietnam War movies. Other lyrical themes included unemployment, inner-city violence, war, and slavish followers of fashion. Controversy erupted around the band after they were featured in a 1982 BBC Arena documentary, during which Henderson made racist comments. His views were not shared by the other band members; in the same documentary, 'Deptford' John commented on the similarity in living situation between black and white working-class youths in early 1980s Britain.
Footage of crowd violence at a gig was also broadcast in the documentary. This led to the breakup of the band, as their newly-earned bad reputation discouraged venues from booking the band. Gigs were then often played under the pseudonym The 7th Cavalry to avoid the stigma of the Combat 84 name. Victory Records, wanting little to do with the band at this point, compiled an album of studio recordings (intended for the band's debut album) and bootleg-quality live tracks and licensed it to German label Rock-O-Rama Records for release as Send in the Marines in 1984. The record was disowned by the band, which split up soon after. In the intervening years, Combat 84 were frequently labelled as a neo-Nazi, white power or Rock Against Communism (RAC) band, a charge which has been denied by 'Deptford' John and Jim, noting that the band's songs contained no racist lyrics, nor were they ever aligned with any far-right political party, although 'Deptford' John noted in a 2001 interview with the "Pissed and Proud" fanzine that he believes in free speech and whilst not supporting it, that RAC music should be allowed a platform - as "people should be allowed to say what they want". 'Deptford' John and Jim went on to roadie for and play with the U.K. Subs and The Exploited, and John Fisher played with former members of The Last Resort in The Warriors. After retiring from the music business, Chris Henderson became more involved with football hooliganism, and eventually led the Chelsea Headhunters in the mid-to-late 1980s, writing the book Who Wants it? about his experiences with Colin Ward. He now owns a bar in Thailand. In 2000, the band reformed without Henderson for the release of the Tooled Up EP, released on their own 7th Cavalry record label. 'Deptford' John took over vocal duties, with Jim on guitar, and 'F.T.' and 'Suds' on bass and drums respectively.
Celtic Warrior
Cardiff based band formed in 1992, by Billy the only surviving member of Violent Storm, the rest of whom were killed in a car crash. The original line-up was Billy vocals, Miffy on guitar, Stinko on bass and Clarkey on drums. In late ’95, they recruited two new band members, Damon and Wol, both from Gloucestershire. Miffy was replaced by Brad in 1996. The autumn 1996 line-up was Billy vocals, Brad on guitar, Stinko on bass and Clarkey on drums. In March 1996 the band went over to Holland to record their second CD. Aussie Nigel played lead guitar for the band. After the guitar and drums had been recorded the vocals were being recorded when the Dutchh police arrived and arrested everyone for "inciting racial hatred". After spending 3 days in prison, all the band got deported, including Nigel who got sent to Australia. The second CD did however get re-recorded as Let The Battle Begin a month later after the problems in Holland. Stigger played lead guitar for the bandIn 2004 Roly stepped in to replace Stinko. The current drummer is Freeman, Lyndon on lead guitar who was the drummer on the first CD, whilst Clarkey was in prison. The second CD ‘Let The Battle Begin’ has contributions from Stigger on lead guitar, and ‘Aussie Nigel’.
Project bands featuring members from Celtic Warrior include No Quarter, Savage, Retaliator, Broadsword, Stuka Attacke (with Sturmwehr), Dragon Lance (with Sturmwehr and Brutal Attack), The Order (with Razors Edge), No Justice (with Whitelaw), White Lightning (with Nigel from Fortress), and White Fist (with Konkwista 88.
Indecent Exposure
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Hemel Hempstead based Oi! band, formed in January 1984. The original line-up was Steve Reeve vocals, Tom Brennan on guitar, Colin Wright on bass and Sedge Swatton on drums. After a few practice sessions it was agreed that Wright was hopeless and he left. Tom Brennan switched to bass and Graham Bacon joined on guitar. They changed their name to The Real McCoy after being told that someone else were already using the name Indecent Exposure, but reverted back to Indecent Exposure when they found this to be false.
In 1984 they issued a seven-track tape and a 7” single, 'Riots', on their own label, Index Products. In March '85 they headlined a gig in Rotterdam, Holland, alongside Condemned 84 and Public Enemy, in which the second part of their set was as a five-piece, with Paul Swain, ex-4-Skins, on second guitar. In 1985 they released their debut album, 'Reveal All' on Rock-O-Rama Records, which had guitar contributions on one track from Paul Swain (Skrewdriver and 4-Skins) and was produced by Mark Sutherland. Rock-O-Rama asked them to change some lyrics on 'Reveal All' In particular the ones to 'England My England'. A line in the song went “England my England we are white forever” the line was changed to “England my England, we are right forever”. The band also played in Germany and Sweden. In 1986 they released their second album 'No Looking Back' on Rock-O-Rama, it was more rock sounding than their debut album and it had guitar contributions on one track from Richie, of Straight Up.
By late '86 the Oi! scene has seem to split between the far right and the left, it was turning ugly. That same year singer Milky got into a fight before a gig with some political skin and told him to fuck off due to his politics. Indecent Exposure continued to played the show, and after a few songs that same skin that Milky had an argument threw a bottle to his face and split him. Indecent continued playing their set till after they were done he jumped into the crowed looking for the asshole who threw the bottle at him, but he seemed to run away. In 1987 Brennan moved to lead guitar and Dave Martin, ex-Tenpole Tudor, came in on bass, whilst Steve's brother occasionally helped on drums. They played their final gig in February '87 then split up.
Indecent Exposure
In 1984 they issued a seven-track tape and a 7” single, 'Riots', on their own label, Index Products. In March '85 they headlined a gig in Rotterdam, Holland, alongside Condemned 84 and Public Enemy, in which the second part of their set was as a five-piece, with Paul Swain, ex-4-Skins, on second guitar. In 1985 they released their debut album, 'Reveal All' on Rock-O-Rama Records, which had guitar contributions on one track from Paul Swain (Skrewdriver and 4-Skins) and was produced by Mark Sutherland. Rock-O-Rama asked them to change some lyrics on 'Reveal All' In particular the ones to 'England My England'. A line in the song went “England my England we are white forever” the line was changed to “England my England, we are right forever”. The band also played in Germany and Sweden. In 1986 they released their second album 'No Looking Back' on Rock-O-Rama, it was more rock sounding than their debut album and it had guitar contributions on one track from Richie, of Straight Up.
By late '86 the Oi! scene has seem to split between the far right and the left, it was turning ugly. That same year singer Milky got into a fight before a gig with some political skin and told him to fuck off due to his politics. Indecent Exposure continued to played the show, and after a few songs that same skin that Milky had an argument threw a bottle to his face and split him. Indecent continued playing their set till after they were done he jumped into the crowed looking for the asshole who threw the bottle at him, but he seemed to run away. In 1987 Brennan moved to lead guitar and Dave Martin, ex-Tenpole Tudor, came in on bass, whilst Steve's brother occasionally helped on drums. They played their final gig in February '87 then split up.
The Ovaltinees
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Originally formed in 1979 under the name White Youth the band featured members who went on to more recently form Eye Of Odin. At their first gig the band found difficulty booking a venue because of their name - White Youth. After recruiting a new bass player and guitarist they settled on the new name The Ovaltinees.
They were the first skinhead band to take on a hardcore National socialist stance and so are regarded as the earliest of the RAC bands. At the start the Ovaltinees played regularly supporting Oi! bands in London at the 100 Club, Skunx, Gossips, and the Red Lion.
Between 1980 and 1982 the band recieved offers from musical papers, managers, and record companies, all with the hope the band would drop their political stances, but the band had no intention of selling out. In 1982 they recorded a 10-track demo. 1982 also saw the rebirth of RAC and on 2nd April 1982 in Stratford, East London the first RAC concert was held since 1979. Featuring The Ovaltinees alongside Skrewdriver and Peter & The Wolf with some 500 skinheads.
Come 1983 the band released their EP British Justice containing four tracks. The line up for this release was Mick on vocals, G on drums, Billy on guitar and Dog Bone Idol on bass. This was credited as being the first RAC record just beating Skrewdriver's White Power EP which appeared shortly after. The Ovaltinees continued playing live RAC gigs with The Wolf, The Die-Hards, until late 1983 when the bands bassist and guitarist left the band. Attempts were made to finde replacements but without success and the band called it a day in 1984.
Blackout
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Blackout was originally formed in the early 90's by Andrew "Stinko" Lewis along with 'Miffy', 'Acky' and Roger. Blackout always remained in Stinkos heart, even though he was involved in other projects, and in the late 90's, along with Brad and Freeman, Blackout emerged again and recorded tracks for a compilation album.
During these recordings, the idea of recording a full length CD was discussed but, due to the deterioration in Stinko's health, the project was shelved. There followed a period of serious illness which resulted in the untimely passing of Stinko.
Prior to his death, Brad and Freeman discussed at length with Stinko, the recording of the full length CD which was to incorporate music and lyrics Stinko had previously worked on.
Blackout, as we know them today, Brad, Freeman, Eggy, Steve and Martin, was formed in 2005. It was the aim of the band to perform their first live gig at the Stinko Memorial to be held in 2005 - which was a success!
During the following year, Blackut built up a loyal following and played a number of successfully gigs, but the demand was ever increasing for the full length CD. Which brings us to the present day and the release of "Spirit of the Warrior" dedicated to the eternal memory of our friend and inspiration - Andrew "Stinko" Lewis!
Violent Storm
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A R.A.C. band out of Cradiff, Wales, Violent Storm mixed up punk and metal influences to make a totally unique sound for their time, with lyrical content of racial issues, class, the IRA, and hooliganism. Violent Storm got their start in 1986 and lasted until 1992, when 3 out of 4 band members died in a car accident on their way to the airport to play one of Spain's first R.A.C. festivals.
The festival went on as planned, but the bands added a moment of silence for their departed friends. Billy(singer), went on to form the WP band "Celtic Warrior", which was named after Violent Storm's first and only full length album. Not too long after the car accident S.H.A.R.P. Skinheads branded Violent Storm's local pub with the words :"FOUR DOWN ONE TO GO". "Celtic Warrior" still tries to keep Violent Storm alive by playing their songs at shows. Billy also went on to be in another WP band called "The Order" and write lyrics for Brazilian band "Fist of Steel".
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Avalon is a prominent English RAC band from Coventry.These severe lads started in 90’s and despite a lot of changes inside their band they continue to perform. Some Avalon members have been involved with various side projects, including the Anglo-Canadian band Kara, and Thunderbolt, with members of Razors Edge. Band was formed in 1994 and Originally called 19th Twice.
After various line-ups the band settled on Bod on vocals, Graham on guitar, Shag on bass and Acky on drums. This line-up played their debut gig at the St. George's Day 1995 concert. Acky left in 1995, Sid stood in on the drums for a short time. An early line-up included Peter who left in 1995. When they played the ISD memorial '96 concert they recruited new drummer James. Graham replaced Bod as the vocalist in late 1996 whilst also remaining the guitarist.
They split-up soon after. Avalon's debut CD 'Our Honour Is True' ran into numerous problems. TheGerman label Di-Al Records got raided by the police, which made them rather reluctant to release the CD. When they played in Germany in January 1998, the line-up included Graham on guitar and Steve, ex-Conquest, on rhythm guitar. They split-up again around 2001 because of a shortage of musicians in their local area and reformed in April 2003 with Graham on bass/vocals and guitarists Kev and Mark, who were both new to the scene, and Andy, ex-Conquest on drums. At the beginning of 2005, the band was left by Kev who was substituted by Garret who played in Germant his first time for Avalon in june of the same year. Later the band was left by Garret and Andy. So now the line-up is: Graham on guitar and vocals, Rob on bass and Steve (London Diehards) on drums.
They were the first skinhead band to take on a hardcore National socialist stance and so are regarded as the earliest of the RAC bands. At the start the Ovaltinees played regularly supporting Oi! bands in London at the 100 Club, Skunx, Gossips, and the Red Lion.
Between 1980 and 1982 the band recieved offers from musical papers, managers, and record companies, all with the hope the band would drop their political stances, but the band had no intention of selling out. In 1982 they recorded a 10-track demo. 1982 also saw the rebirth of RAC and on 2nd April 1982 in Stratford, East London the first RAC concert was held since 1979. Featuring The Ovaltinees alongside Skrewdriver and Peter & The Wolf with some 500 skinheads.
Come 1983 the band released their EP British Justice containing four tracks. The line up for this release was Mick on vocals, G on drums, Billy on guitar and Dog Bone Idol on bass. This was credited as being the first RAC record just beating Skrewdriver's White Power EP which appeared shortly after. The Ovaltinees continued playing live RAC gigs with The Wolf, The Die-Hards, until late 1983 when the bands bassist and guitarist left the band. Attempts were made to finde replacements but without success and the band called it a day in 1984.
Blackout was originally formed in the early 90's by Andrew "Stinko" Lewis along with 'Miffy', 'Acky' and Roger. Blackout always remained in Stinkos heart, even though he was involved in other projects, and in the late 90's, along with Brad and Freeman, Blackout emerged again and recorded tracks for a compilation album.During these recordings, the idea of recording a full length CD was discussed but, due to the deterioration in Stinko's health, the project was shelved. There followed a period of serious illness which resulted in the untimely passing of Stinko.
Prior to his death, Brad and Freeman discussed at length with Stinko, the recording of the full length CD which was to incorporate music and lyrics Stinko had previously worked on.
Blackout, as we know them today, Brad, Freeman, Eggy, Steve and Martin, was formed in 2005. It was the aim of the band to perform their first live gig at the Stinko Memorial to be held in 2005 - which was a success!
During the following year, Blackut built up a loyal following and played a number of successfully gigs, but the demand was ever increasing for the full length CD. Which brings us to the present day and the release of "Spirit of the Warrior" dedicated to the eternal memory of our friend and inspiration - Andrew "Stinko" Lewis!
Violent Storm
A R.A.C. band out of Cradiff, Wales, Violent Storm mixed up punk and metal influences to make a totally unique sound for their time, with lyrical content of racial issues, class, the IRA, and hooliganism. Violent Storm got their start in 1986 and lasted until 1992, when 3 out of 4 band members died in a car accident on their way to the airport to play one of Spain's first R.A.C. festivals.The festival went on as planned, but the bands added a moment of silence for their departed friends. Billy(singer), went on to form the WP band "Celtic Warrior", which was named after Violent Storm's first and only full length album. Not too long after the car accident S.H.A.R.P. Skinheads branded Violent Storm's local pub with the words :"FOUR DOWN ONE TO GO". "Celtic Warrior" still tries to keep Violent Storm alive by playing their songs at shows. Billy also went on to be in another WP band called "The Order" and write lyrics for Brazilian band "Fist of Steel".
British Standard came from Scotland (Glasgow) and they started playing in 1982. The first line up was Jim Boland drums, Sim bass and Dods guitar. In 1986 Cazy played the guitar and Lorraine took the vocals duties. This was the first R.A.C band with a female on vocals. Under this line up they wrote a demo tape and some other songs like Skinhead Headlines, Bomb Scare and Smash The Reds.
The band had member change again with Midi on vocals and John on guitar (rehearsal 1993 & Last Chance songs) and they took part in Last Chance Volume 1 compilation with a new version of the old song Violence Rape & Murder alongside a brand new track called New Europe.
Midi left the band around 1994 to concentrate more time with his family.
Avalon
After various line-ups the band settled on Bod on vocals, Graham on guitar, Shag on bass and Acky on drums. This line-up played their debut gig at the St. George's Day 1995 concert. Acky left in 1995, Sid stood in on the drums for a short time. An early line-up included Peter who left in 1995. When they played the ISD memorial '96 concert they recruited new drummer James. Graham replaced Bod as the vocalist in late 1996 whilst also remaining the guitarist.
They split-up soon after. Avalon's debut CD 'Our Honour Is True' ran into numerous problems. TheGerman label Di-Al Records got raided by the police, which made them rather reluctant to release the CD. When they played in Germany in January 1998, the line-up included Graham on guitar and Steve, ex-Conquest, on rhythm guitar. They split-up again around 2001 because of a shortage of musicians in their local area and reformed in April 2003 with Graham on bass/vocals and guitarists Kev and Mark, who were both new to the scene, and Andy, ex-Conquest on drums. At the beginning of 2005, the band was left by Kev who was substituted by Garret who played in Germant his first time for Avalon in june of the same year. Later the band was left by Garret and Andy. So now the line-up is: Graham on guitar and vocals, Rob on bass and Steve (London Diehards) on drums.
