Shed Seven

Shed Seven formed in York in 1990, Rick Witter's charismatic frontmanship giving the band a presence that belied their provincial origins. They signed to Polydor in 1994 and released a series of singles that established them as one of the more reliable acts of the Britpop era. The sound was melodic guitar pop with a northern directness — no art-school irony, just well-crafted songs delivered with conviction.

'Change Giver' (1994) and 'A Maximum High' (1996) were both strong albums, with 'Chasing Rainbows', 'Going for Gold', and 'On Standby' becoming staples of mid-90s radio. Shed Seven were never the most fashionable band in Britain, but they had a consistency and a work ethic that many of their more celebrated contemporaries lacked.

They split in 2003 but reformed in 2007 and have continued to tour and record with undiminished energy. Their live shows are among the most enjoyable on the nostalgia circuit — not because they are trading on past glories, but because Witter remains a genuinely compelling frontman and the songs hold up. 'Instant Pleasures' (2017) was a genuine comeback album.