Blitzed Issue 8

The legendary Factory Records remains one of the most important record labels to have emerged in the post-punk era. A huge influence on popular culture from its inception in 1978, its legacy endures today.

This issue of Blitzed touches on the Factory story through our exclusive interview with A Certain Ratio as well as our conversation with author Audrey Golden on her new book I Thought I Heard You Speak. This publication is a revealing insight into the women behind Factory, offering insight into an area of the label that perhaps has been airbrushed from history. We also speak to Gina Birch, originally part of iconic band The Raincoats and later video director (including key videos for New Order). Here, she speaks about her latest musical venture.

But this issue also casts a wider net as we feature interviews with synth-pop legend Marc Almond, suave pop figure Martin Fry and rock icon Glen Matlock. We also speak to veteran post-punk outfit Sad Lovers and Giants and Canadian electro-pop act LEATHERS.

With many classic records celebrating their 40th anniversary this year, we take a look at two classic titles in detail: OMD’s fractured masterpiece Dazzle Ships and Spandau Ballet’s slick True. There’s also a special feature looking at some of the classic singles from 1983.

Plus, live reviews, including Stiff Little Fingers, B-Movie, Naked Lunch and the first Electronic Café live event. In record reviews, we take a look at new releases by Depeche Mode, Anni Hogan and Cult With No Name among others.

It’s a packed issue, so dig in and enjoy!

Paul Browne / paulbrowne@blitzedmag.com