GBH

GBH formed in Birmingham in 1978, originally calling themselves Charged GBH. They came up through the UK punk scene when it was still finding its feet, dealing with the usual early struggles like shifting lineups and small crowds. Their sound was rougher and more aggressive than a lot of what was around at the time, which helped them stand out.

In 1982 they put out their first album, 'City Baby Attacked By Rats.' The title track became an underground staple, a fast, noisy song about city life that pretty much defined their reputation. That record, along with songs like 'Give Me Fire,' established their style: Colin Abrahall's shouted vocals over driving rhythms and distorted guitars. They took cues from earlier punk bands but pushed the tempo and intensity further.

Their lyrics and stage shows sometimes got them into trouble. They kept putting out records through the '80s and beyond, like 'Leather, Bristles, Studs, and Acne' in 1984 and 'Church of the Truly Warped' in 1989, sticking to their loud, confrontational approach without much compromise.