Search - Chelsea :: Chelsea

Lost Classic of '77 British Punk! An Essential Masterpiece!

T. Kasuboski | Winneconne, Wisconsin United States | 01/19/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"CHELSEA are possible the most overlooked band of the so-called 1977 punk explosion. Formed by vocalist Gene October in 1976, the first CHELSEA line-up(including a young Billy Idol!) lasted only a month or two when all but Gene October left CHELSEA to form GENERATION X. Despite losing his whole band, October rebuilt CHELSEA and quickly began building a rabid fanbase(including DJ John Peel), playing tons of shows, and most importantly writing new material. From the start, CHELSEA's songwriting skills were a cut above almost all of their contemporaries. Blending street savy lyrics with killer hard-edged melodies, CHELSEA immediatley began to influence bands such as SHAM 69, STIFF LITTLE FINGERS, ANGELIC UPSTARTS, possibly THE CLASH, and other legendary early Oi/street punk groups. Despite forming in '76, CHELSEA's debut LP (consisting of tunes written as far back as '76-'77) was not released until 1979(NOT 1981 as another reviewer incorrectly stated) due to almost constant personnel changes. As far as punk LPs are concerned(being that punk has always been a musical form dominated by the EP format), the "Chelsea" LP is simply amazing. From October's highly emotive vocals and top-notch lyrics to James Stevenson and Dave Martin's cutting but melodic guitar playing, the LP has it all with not a weak moment present. The LP also benefits from a perfect production which really allows CHELSEA's dynamic sound to flourish. Some at the time of the LP's release criticized the album for NOT containing any of CHELSEA's EP tracks. This fact however, further illustrates CHELSEA's power as songwriters. Rather than simpy release an LP filled with previously released EP/single tracks(like many other bands of the era preferred), CHELSEA released a full LP of new tracks (all of which are equal if not superior to many of their previously released single tracks). CHELSEA's second LP titled "Alternative Hits" (1979) would compile many of CHELSEA's EP tracks along with some new songs. In the end, CHELSEA suffered from excessive line-up changes, a fact which hindered their ability to record and capitalize on the initial '77 explosion. Without a doubt, had CHELSEA released material in '77(when they were tearing up the club scene throughout the UK) they would be remembered with the same fondness as the DAMNED, BUZZCOCKS, CLASH, SEX PISTOLS, 999, and even ironically GEN-X. Luckily for CHELSEA however, their late release of the "Chelsea" LP and "Alternative Hits" LP would influence the second generation of UK bands particularly those of an Oi or street punk nature. Much like STIFF LITTLE FINGERS, CHELSEA trancends the "punk" label. CHELSEA were truly a brilliant group with intelligent songcraft, killer melodies, and a truly timeless message. CHELSEA's debut album "Chelsea" (1979) is an essential addition to the collection of any true punk rock fanatic. As a bonus, the Captain Oi! CD re-release of the "Chelsea" LP includes four awesome demo-versions of "Urban Kids" and "No Flowers" (two classic single tunes which would appear on CHELSEA's second "Alternative Hits" LP) and great demo versions of "Twelve Men" and "All the Downs" from the debut. Don't hesitate, BUY THIS CD IMMEDIATELY or risk missing out on truly one of the highest quality punk rock groups to ever walk this earth...."

I'm On Fire

Peter Freitas | boston | 02/20/2007

(3 out of 5 stars)

"I'm On Fire was all I knew of Chelsea. Great song, one of my favorite punk tunes, but the record is dated. There are a couple of gems, and I'm sure in 81 it was a good effort.still is."