About this Event
RADICAL DANCE FACTION
Formed from the ashes of UK anarcho reggae outfit Military Surplus, RDF, as they were commonly abbreviated, started in 1987. Their line-ups were erratic but were based around the one constant, lyricist and vocalist Chris Bowsher. Using beat poetry, with its imagery of modern decay and capitalism gone wrong, their chosen musical outlet was reggae and ska. Bowsher was a veteran of the early punk explosion, and was particularly enamoured of bands such as the Clash and Ruts who attempted to bridge the gap between rock and Black music. Alongside the Levellers, they became prime movers in the media-christened ‘crusty’ movement (i.e., their following comprised largely the dispossessed and homeless, bonded by a political consciousness that has its roots in hippiedom, beatnik romanticism and early 80s anarcho-punk).
CULTURE SHOCK
Culture Shock mix their punk roots with ska and reggae music to a previously unheard extent and influenced the styles of bands like AOS3, Radical Dance Faction, Back to the Planet, Bender, The AK 47's, The Dicemen at a time when the free festival scene was under state attack following the cessation of the Stonehenge Festival; Culture Shock were one of a heap of bands playing as many festivals as possible, alongside their more regular gigs and this earned them a broad range of support.
Dick’s lyrics are mostly concerned with social and political issues, from cruelty to animals, Northern Ireland, war, and social alienation, but are far from angry rants, often finding a positive and empowering perspective. Culture Shock split in 1989, as Bill and Nigel both had young families to support. Dick went on to form Citizen Fish with Jasper, the bassist for Culture Shock’s final 80s album, and two other former members of the Subhumans.
Event Venue & Nearby Stays
The Fleece, 12 Saint Thomas Street, Bristol, United Kingdom
GBP 20.00