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APB

Rock

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About

During the '80s, one of the most popular underground alternative bands to make a splash in the New York Tri-State area was, surprisingly, not a local band. In fact, APB hailed from across the pond in Scotland. While most alternative bands of the '80s used chiming guitars and/or icy synths to get their points across, APB were an anomaly, as it was funk bass that led the charge (quite comparable to Gang of Four -- minus the political lyrics). In fact, their early work served as a blueprint for what the Red Hot Chilli Peppers would follow on their first few releases. Formed in Aberdeen, Scotland, APB were comprised of singer/bassist Iain Slater, guitarist Glenn Roberts, and drummer George Cheyne, with a pair of percussionists added over the years (Nick Jones from 1982-1983 and Mikey Craighead taking Jones' spot from 1984-1989).

The group initially caused a buzz in Europe, which lead to several sessions for BBC Radio 1 between 1981 and 1984 (the John Peel Session twice, and the David Jensen Session and Peter Powell Session once apiece). Several singles were issued as well, which served as the basis for APB's debut full-length, Something to Believe In, in 1985. New York radio soon embraced these singles (namely "Palace Filled with Love," "Rainy Day," "One Day," "What Kind of Girl?," and especially the infectious "Shoot You Down"), which led to several U.S. tours – including spots over the years opening for both the Clash and James Brown. Additionally, APB headlined their own New York gigs (including a performance at the famous venue the Ritz).

In 1986 a sophomore effort, Cure for the Blues, was released, as well as a four-song EP, Missing You Already, later that same year. The group would continue to perform sporadically for the remainder of the '80s, but would not issue any more new recordings. Interest in APB increased by the early 21st century, thanks to the emergence of countless new wave revival acts, which led to a double-disc reissue of their debut in 2005, Something to Believe In: 20th Anniversary Edition, as well as a compilation of their early radio sessions, The Radio 1 Sessions, a year later. 

Reviews

Rating: 5 out of 5 based on 3 reviews
  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    Amazing show

    by Laura1717 on 4/5/22Mercury Lounge - New York

    Amazing show performed by a seminal post-punk band. They are so under appreciated - superior musicianship, totally original, and full of energy. APB has brilliantly combined punk, new wave, and funk since the late 1970s. This show had incredible energy and passion from the band and the fans. They don’t just sound the same, they sound even better.

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    Drawing blood..

    by FBOMB on 4/5/22Mercury Lounge - New York

    “Why did it have rain today?? I’d really like to know..”APB in full effect…Scottish punk funk new wave band from the late 70’s early 80’s…inspiring later bands such as The Red Hot Chili Peppers and Franz Ferdinand, achieved moderate success but made quite an indelible mark on music..I was immediately transported to my dewy and dangerous days of my 20’s.. & WLIR…the dancing and the music of that era still ever so present in my heart mind and soul.. We popped and bopped through their frenetic set as they zipped through their hits RAINY DAY, WHAT KIND OF GIRL, SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN , SHOOT YOU DOWN , and an encore of the RAMONES- Blitzgrieg Bop…The boys were back in town and they drew blood 🩸—with their incredible sound still fresh -sizzling guitar riffs, smashing drums ,& funky funk bass lines…From the moment they stepped up on the stage i knew they meant business—a seismic shift in energy—the band members adjusting and prepping -we were in the presence of a no nonsense trio and they were going to let us have it in the best possible way… and boy did they deliver..Last night was a great night to witness and to be alive ..it really was..😎🎶🎶🎼🎼❤️❤️🌶🌶

  • Rating: 5 out of 5

    APB, Reno's Men

    by John2013NJ on 2/26/14The Wellmont Theater - Montclair

    Wellmont Theater, the best concert venue in NJ, Bruce Ciccone is amazing at what he does, The Wellmont Theatre looks incredible, sounds amazing... Reno's Men an amazing band, APB an incredible act from the 80's that still pack a punch.. Great Show, I would definitely attend again...