"The Screaming Blue Messiahs" were a rock band, formed in 1983 in London by Bill Carter (vocals and guitar), Chris Thompson (bass guitar and vocals) and Kenny Harris (drums) in the wake of the pub rock and punk scenes that had been so predominant on the UK capital's live music circuit during the late '70s/ early '80s.
Emerging from the vibrant UK music scene of the mid-1980s, The Screaming Blue Messiahs unleashed their debut mini-album "Good and Gone." The album arrived at a time when post-punk was evolving, and bands were experimenting with various genres, incorporating elements of rockabilly, blues, and country into their sound.
Historical Context:
"Good and Gone" was released in 1984, a period when the UK music landscape was teeming with creativity. The post-punk movement had given way to a diverse array of sounds, ranging from the new wave pop of Duran Duran to the gothic rock of The Cure. The Screaming Blue Messiahs found their niche by blending punk energy with rockabilly swagger, creating a unique sound that resonated with audiences hungry for something different.
Musical Exploration:
The album's title track, "Good and Gone," is a fast-paced, energetic rocker with a catchy chorus and a driving rhythm section. Other standout tracks include "Someone to Talk To" and "I Want Up," which showcase the band's ability to blend punk aggression with rockabilly twang. The band's musical exploration on "Good and Gone" set the stage for their later, more refined albums.
Controversies:
The Screaming Blue Messiahs' music was not overtly controversial, but their raw, unpolished sound and energetic live performances sometimes clashed with the more polished, mainstream acts of the time. This, however, only served to enhance their appeal among fans who craved authenticity and energy.
Production Team and Studio:
"Good and Gone" was produced by Vic Maile, a seasoned producer who had worked with artists like Jimi Hendrix, Led Zeppelin, and The Kinks. The album was recorded at Elephant Studios in London, a renowned recording facility that had hosted countless legendary artists. Maile's experience and the studio's state-of-the-art equipment helped to capture the band's raw energy and translate it onto tape.
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Music Genre: Post Punk Rock |
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Album Production Information: The album: "SCREAMING BLUE MESSIAHS - Good and Gone" was produced by: Vic Maile Vic Maile , born on 27 March 1943, was a highly respected British sound engineer and record producer who played a significant role in shaping the sound of rock and roll. With his remarkable talent and passion for music, Maile made a lasting impact on the industry, leaving behind a legacy that continues to resonate with fans and artists alike. Maile's journey in music began during his formative years, where he developed a deep fascination with sound and its manipulation. As a teenager, he immersed himself in the world of electronics and sound engineering, constantly experimenting with audio equipment and exploring new ways to capture and enhance musical performances. In the 1960s, Maile emerged as a sought-after sound engineer, working with numerous bands and artists in the thriving British music scene. His technical proficiency and ability to understand the intricacies of sound quickly earned him a reputation for excellence. Artists and producers recognized Maile as someone who could elevate their music to new heights through his expertise in the recording studio. Throughout his career, Maile had the privilege of collaborating with a diverse range of bands and musicians, each with their unique styles and sonic signatures. Some of the notable names he worked with include: 1. Dr. Feelgood: Maile's partnership with Dr. Feelgood in the mid-1970s proved to be a pivotal moment in both his career and the band's success. He played a vital role in capturing the band's raw, high-energy pub rock sound, contributing to the creation of their influential debut album, "Down by the Jetty" (1975). 2. Motörhead: One of Maile's most iconic collaborations was with the legendary heavy metal band Motörhead. His production work on their seminal albums, such as "Overkill" (1979) and "Ace of Spades" (1980), helped define their distinctive and aggressive sound. Maile's ability to capture the band's raw intensity and sheer power in the studio cemented their status as one of the genre's most influential acts. 3. Girlschool: Maile's partnership with the all-female heavy metal band Girlschool yielded exceptional results. He worked closely with them on albums like "Hit and Run" (1981) and "Screaming Blue Murder" (1982), crafting a sound that balanced their fierce energy with melodic hooks. His production skills showcased the band's musical prowess and contributed to their rise in the male-dominated rock landscape. 4. The Quireboys: Maile collaborated with The Quireboys for their debut album, "A Bit of What You Fancy" (1990). With his guidance, the band achieved a blend of classic rock and roll swagger with a contemporary edge, resulting in a critically acclaimed record that earned them commercial success. Vic Maile's talent as a sound engineer and record producer extended far beyond these notable collaborations. His contributions to the rock and roll genre are immeasurable, as he worked with a myriad of artists who trusted him to translate their artistic vision into captivating sonic experiences. This album was recorded at: Elephant Studios |
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Record Label Information: Big Beat WEA 240 650 / WX 16 |
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Media Format: 12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone RecordTotal Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram |
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Year & Country: 1985 Made in Germany |
Complete Track-listing of the album "SCREAMING BLUE MESSIAHS - Good and Gone" |
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The detailed tracklist of this record "SCREAMING BLUE MESSIAHS - Good and Gone" is:
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Note: The photos on this page are taken from albums in my personal collection. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).
"Good and Gone" Light Blue Colour Record Label Details: WEA 240 650-1, WX 16
Emerging from the vibrant UK music scene of the mid-1980s, The Screaming Blue Messiahs carved a unique niche with their electrifying blend of punk energy, rockabilly swagger, and blues-infused melodies. This potent concoction, often dubbed "punkabilly," set them apart from their contemporaries and garnered critical acclaim.
A Unique Musical Style: The band's sound was a thrilling collision of genres. Their driving rhythms, distorted guitars, and raw vocals channeled the rebellious spirit of punk, while their twangy guitar licks and infectious melodies paid homage to rockabilly's roots. This fusion of styles, coupled with their energetic live performances, created an exhilarating experience for audiences. Bill Carter: The Lyrical Maverick: Frontman Bill Carter was the band's creative force, his distinctive vocals and thought-provoking lyrics setting them apart. His songwriting often explored themes of American culture, social commentary, and personal struggles, all delivered with a biting wit and dark humor. Carter's enigmatic persona and captivating stage presence further solidified the band's unique identity. David Bowie's Endorsement: The Screaming Blue Messiahs caught the attention of none other than David Bowie, who became a vocal supporter and champion of their music. Bowie, known for his eclectic taste and willingness to embrace emerging talent, invited the band to open for him on his 1987 "Glass Spider" tour, exposing them to a wider audience and solidifying their reputation as a rising force in the music scene.
Emerging from the vibrant UK music scene of the mid-1980s, The Screaming Blue Messiahs unleashed their debut mini-album "Good and Gone." The album arrived at a time when post-punk was evolving, and bands were experimenting
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Released in 1986, "Gun Shy" captures the raw intensity and sonic experimentation that defined Screaming Blue Messiahs' music. The album is a sonic rollercoaster, filled with blistering tracks that delve into themes of alienation, social commentary, and personal struggles.
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