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The Undertones

The Undertones were a New Wave band formed in Derry, Northern Ireland in the early to mid 1970s. 

During their main period of existance, from eth mid 1970s to mid 1980s, the Undertones consisted of Feargal Sharkey (vocals), John O'Neill (rhythm guitar, vocals), Damian O'Neill (lead guitar, vocals), Michael Bradley (bass, vocals) and Billy Doherty (drums).

Much of the earlier Undertones material drew influence from punk rock and new wave; the Undertones also incorporated elements of rock, glam rock and post-punk into material released after 1979, before citing soul and Motown as the influence for the material released upon their final album.

The Undertones released over a dozed singles and four studio albums in their hay-day before Sharkey announced his intention to leave the band in May 1983.

Despite the backdrop of the Troubles in Derry and across Northern Ireland, the vast majority (though not all) of the material the Undertones released focused not of a the political theme.

In my opinion The Undertones remain the most influential and possibly greatest band to have emerged from Ulster, if not the whole of Ireland, typified with infectious sounds and highlighted by Sharkey's unique voice, they are one of my favourite bands - ever!

In terms of tracks, I have to start with where it began, 'Teenage Kicks' that enabled John Peel to propel them to the big time in 1978.



Followed by personal favourites 'Jimmy Jimmy' from 1979 and 'My Perfect Cousin' from 1980.





Other great tracks were 'Wednesday Week' from 1981 and 'Its Gonna Happen'






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