Swell Maps

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"Swell Maps began in 1972. They were formed by brothers Epic Soundtracks and Nikki Sudden together with their friend David Barrington. Jowe Head, Richard Earl & John Cockrill came on board over the next few years. Richard and Jowe stayed - the others became more temporary members...

In September 1977 the Maps went in the studio for the first time - although many home recordings were made - and still exist! Swell Maps were (are) seen as being a cross between Can and T.Rex by the members of the band. Others may disagree but that's their loss. Swell Maps broke up in mid-1980 for many reasons - some known - many others unknown."

Classify them under 'strange' or even deranged. Superb first single clocking in at 1:27 seconds Read About Seymour / Ripped and Torn / Black Velvet (1977 Rather Records) and a second, Dresden Style / Ammunition Train / Full Moon (1978 Rough Trade), isn't so bad either. Funnily enough the song doesn't appear to ever mention Dresden instead it sounds like he's saying 'I'm just sucking silly boys today'. There's a year gap between these singles yet Dresden was written in 1976. Not prolific then !

If you get the album Trip To Marineville you are in for a suprise. A review of them live from 1979 Sounds writer Mick Middles best describes their attitude " ...The Swell maps are the most professional unprofessional band I've ever had the (mis)fortune to witness...the Swell Maps are presently attempting to conquer the art of turning badness into madness" My girlfriend thinks the album is just bad. She's got a point but the first two singles are classics.

Band: Nikki - Guitar & Vocals. Biggles - Guitar. 
Jowe - Bass. Epic -Drums.

 Click to hear audio clip of 'Dresden Style'