Magazine

Magazine formed in Manchester in 1977, Howard Devoto — who had recently left the Buzzcocks — assembling a new band with John McGeoch, Barry Adamson, Dave Formula, and Bob Dickinson (later replaced by John Doyle). Their sound was immediately distinct from the punk scene Devoto had helped create — colder, more cerebral, and more musically sophisticated, drawing on Roxy Music, Bowie, and the avant-garde while retaining the energy and directness of punk.

'Real Life' (1978) was one of the most important British debut albums of the era — a record of extraordinary intelligence and sonic ambition that produced 'Shot by Both Sides' and established Magazine as one of the most important new British acts. 'Secondhand Daylight' (1979) and 'The Correct Use of Soap' (1980) were equally strong, with each album developing their sound in new directions.

Magazine dissolved in 1981 before reforming in 2009 for a series of live performances and a new album. Their influence on subsequent post-punk, new wave, and art rock has been enormous — John McGeoch's guitar playing in particular was one of the most influential of the era, and Devoto's lyrics remain among the most intelligent in British rock. ⚠ Flag: post-2011 activity — verify current status.