X-Ray Spex formed in London in 1976 with Poly Styrene on vocals, Lora Logic on guitar, B.P. Hurding on bass, and Paul Dean on drums. Their sound wasn't just straightforward punk; it had a wiry, experimental edge, sometimes pulling in reggae rhythms. Their 1978 album 'Germfree Adolescents' included the track 'Oh Bondage Up Yours!' and songs like 'Identity'.
Poly Styrene's lyrics often dealt with consumer culture and artificiality, as heard in songs like 'I Am a Poseur' and 'Art-i-ficial.' Her delivery was sharp and confrontational, and her look, spiky hair, bright lipstick, stood out in a scene that could be rigidly masculine. The band didn't last long, but they made a distinct noise while they were around.
Keep it compact: a lyric you come back to, a live memory, or the part of the catalog you would point someone toward first.
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