Agent Blue
Though some of the band's members continue to put out musically as The Sport, there is a large hole left in the scene where Agent Blue once resided. Perhaps the first band in recent time who really seemed likely to propell themselves beyond the local scene and into the UK alternative scene as a whole, Agent Blue signed to the Fierce Panda label in early 2003 and would go on to release six singles and one album with the label. Balancing a blend of post-punk, early 90's Baggy and mid-noughties alt-indie, Agent Blue garnered a large and loyal fanbase locally, and their reputation earned them support slots with The Music, YourCodeNameIs:Milo, The Others and Young Gods. Sending local venues absolutely mental over the years, culminating in sets at Leeds and Reading festival, and a double page spread in the NME, things looked to be on the up for the band. Unfortunately the time taken between the early singles 'Crossbreed' (a Northern indie anthem drawing equally from Zeppelin as much as The Music and Madchester) and 'Sex, Drugs and Rocks Through Your Window' (the band's most radio friendly single, an energetic sing along track, with storming guitars, a ridiculously catchy hook, and an easily remembered 9 words constituting the lyrics) and the band's album 'A Stolen Honda Vision' totalled nearly three years, and the band lost a great deal of the momentum that had been raised with the release of their singles and some mesmerising live performances. In 2007, after over 5 years of playing together, the band decided to call it a day, releasing this statement on their website:
"After much thought and debate within the band, we've decided that Agent Blue has reached the end of the road! We've had an amazing time over the last 5 years or so, but after calum (bass) left last November, we realised quickily that we couldnt carry on any longer, as Agent Bluewere 5 different people, different influences, different styles etc and would never have worked as Agent Blue with one of those factors missing. we're working on something new and we'll let you in on our plans shorty, but for now we thought we'd lay Agent Blue to rest! Thanks to all the people who stood by us over the years and for the support of all the fans, it really has been a pleasure. Agent Blue"
You can buy 'A Stolen Honda Vision' on Amazon here: Agent Blue on Amazon
Here's To The Atom Bomb
Formed from the ashes of the equally well named Fire Kills Children, HTTAB are still one of the best bands to come from this area in recent years. With content seemingly centred around the post-adolescent transition into manhood, set in the confines of a small town, following the aftermath of a 'dirty underground scene', there's something about Jones' lryics that will resonate very deeply with a lot of people. Add those Ian Curtis-esque vocals to rousing guitar anthems and you've got something special on your hands. One of the handful of bands from the area who really deserved a long term record deal and to reach more ears.
Essential Listening:
- This Information
- Raise A Glass
- Untitled # 25
