Longpigs

Longpigs formed in Sheffield in 1993, Crispin Hunt's songwriting giving the band a more emotionally direct quality than many of their Britpop contemporaries. They signed to Mother Records and spent two years developing their sound before releasing their debut single. The Sheffield connection — Pulp were from the same city — was noted, but Longpigs had their own voice.

'The Sun Is Often Out' (1996) was a strong debut — 'She Said', 'On and On', and 'Far' were all excellent singles. The album reached number twenty-six and received strong reviews. Hunt's lyrics were more emotionally raw than most Britpop, and the band's sound had a weight and intensity that set them apart from the sunnier end of the movement.

'Mobile Home' (1999) was a more experimental follow-up that received less attention as Britpop had faded. The band split shortly after its release. Hunt went on to work as a songwriter and producer. Longpigs remain one of the most underrated bands of their era — a band who had everything except timing.