Carter the Unstoppable Sex Machine

Carter the Unstoppable Sex Machine formed in London in 1987, Jim Bob (Jim Morrison) and Fruitbat (Les Carter) developing a sound that was rooted in punk but had a sardonic, sample-heavy quality that was entirely their own. They signed to Rough Trade and released a series of albums that built a devoted following. The music was loud, funny, and politically engaged.

'101 Damnations' (1990) and '30 Something' (1991) established the template. 'Sherriff Fatman', 'Rubbish', and 'After the Watershed' were all excellent singles. '1992 - The Love Album' reached number one. Carter USM were briefly one of the most successful British alternative bands, their devoted fanbase filling venues across the country.

Carter USM split in 1997. Jim Bob has had a successful solo career and has written several novels. The band reformed in 2007 and have continued to perform occasionally. Their back catalogue has been reassessed positively in recent years — the sardonic wit and political anger of the best songs have never dated.