The Membranes

Combining small-town frustration with heavy bass and avant-garde noise, the group—led by frontman John Robb—pioneered the noise-rock genre for over a decade.

Their breakthrough single, "Muscles," earned Single of the Week honours in the UK and became a dancefloor hit at New York's Danceteria. They went on to release six acclaimed studio albums throughout the 1980s, including Gift Of Life and landmark tracks like "Spike Milligan’s Tape Recorder." Famous for almost being the first act signed to Alan McGee’s Creation Records, the band's relentless sonic experimentation set the stage for noise-rock icons like Sonic Youth and Big Black.

Following their initial split, John Robb formed Goldblade and established himself as a renowned music journalist, author, and broadcaster.

The Membranes reformed in 2009 at the personal invitation of My Bloody Valentine to play All Tomorrow's Parties. Since reuniting, they have entered a lauded second era, releasing the critically acclaimed albums Dark Matter/Dark Energy and What Nature Gives… Nature Takes Away. Known for ambitious live shows, they continue to tour internationally, perform with vocal choirs across Europe, and play unique venues, including a set at the top of the Blackpool Tower.