Obie Man Banned – B’head band feat; Davoe Owens, Paul Littler, Billy Farragher. Had 3 songs on Birkenhead Blues comp LP (on Bop A Dub Jan86) and Future Shock on Blues Vol 2 (Bopadub Oct86), also called Big Bill’s Ooze Band.
O’Boogie Brothers – schoolboy band (1976-77), feat; Ian Broudie (gtr) (later Big in Japan, Opium Eaters, Secrets, Original Mirrors, Lightning Seeds), Nathan McGough (voc) (son of Roger of Scaffold), David Knopov (voc) (later Walkie Talkies), Frazer Henry (gtr), Ambrose (bass) (later Big in Japan, Walkie Talkies, Nightmares in Wax, Hollycaust, Frankie Goes To Hollywood), Neil Hyams (keys), Jonte Wilkins (drms), who was replaced by Bernie Goodheart (drms). Jonathon Moss (drms) (later Walkie Talkies), joined after his cousin Berny left & the band soon split. First proper gig was supp Sex Pistols, also supp Deaf School at Eric’s.
Object Art – band (early 80s) feat; Peter Reynolds (later Feathers And The Fire). More info req’d
Obsession – Kirkdale band (formed 1987), feat; Ian ‘Nobby’ Moore (voc), Phil ‘The Stick’ Jones (gtr), Ste Brereton (bass), Tony ‘The Tiger’ Cullen (drms). Rising from the ashes of local Kirkdale outfits, the group carved out a niche on the Liverpool circuit. They were staples at venues like the Mardi Gras and the Cumberland. Though they never quite broke through to national prominence, they recorded a well-received four-track demo at The Pink Museum studio which included the fan-favourite anthem Shadows Of The Night. The band eventually dissolved in 1990 as members moved on to various other projects including The Power and The Real People.
Ocean Drive – Liverpool duo (early 90s), feat; Ashley Moore (voc,gtr), Tony Bolland (voc,gtr). Became a familiar fixture in the city’s smaller venues and wine bars, specialising in tight vocal harmonies and intricate fretwork. Self-released 1992 EP ‘The Shoreline’. The title track, Driftwood, garnered some local radio airplay and highlighted their knack for evocative, seafaring metaphors and polished production. Despite a loyal following at venues like the Everyman Bistro, the duo eventually parted ways in the mid-90s to pursue solo ventures and session work.
Oceanic – Wirral dance act (1991–1996), feat; David “Bowa” Bowery (prog), Frank Mertens (prog), Anne-Marie Helder (voc). Initially forming in the late eighties as a more experimental outfit, the group shot to unexpected international fame with the 1991 rave anthem Insanity, which spent weeks at number three in the UK charts and remains a definitive sound of the era. While often labelled a “one-hit wonder” by the mainstream press due to the massive shadow cast by their debut, they released the full-length studio album ‘That Compact Disc By Oceanic’ in 1992 through the Northwich-based Dead Dead Good Records, showcasing a broader electronic range across tracks like Wicked Love and Celebration Of The Spirit. The group eventually transitioned into different line-ups before a late-nineties revival saw the release of Insanity (99 Remix), though they ultimately disbanded as the members moved into production and session work for other high-profile artists.
Ocean’s Eleven – Liverpool band (c1983–1987), feat; Barry Nelson (voc), Joe Spiers (keys), Vince Whirlwind (bass), Alan Redmond (gtr), Tim Reddy (drms), Phil (gtr), Dave Goldring (drms), John Cornforth (keys), Andy Parle (drms). This evolving line-up served as a bridge between various Merseyside sub-scenes, with the 1983 incarnation featuring future The Lightning Seeds drummer Andy Parle before the mid-eighties version solidified around the Canadian-born Isle of Man transplant Barry Nelson. The group achieved a degree of cult status through their contribution of the track Thanks For Nothing to the October 1986 compilation LP ‘Twist And Samba’, released on the Skeleton label, which showcased their moody, synth-inflected pop sound. Members were deeply integrated into the local circuit, with various musicians passing through to join outfits like Fashion Play, Cair Paravel, and Almighty Atmosphere, though the band eventually folded in 1987.
Odd One Out – Liverpool punk band (formed Jun01), feat; Dr. T (voc,gtr), Rico McRawk (gtr), Jackson (bass), PK (drms). Known for their relentless DIY ethic and a sound that harkened back to the classic 1977 punk explosion. Despite weathering various line-up changes over the years, they maintained a consistent presence on the local circuit, frequently appearing at venues such as The Zanzibar and the Masque. Their live sets were characterised by blistering pace and politically charged lyrics, often culminating in the fan-favourite anthem System Overload. While their recorded output remained sporadic, they featured on several regional punk samplers and self-released the high-octane 2003 EP ‘No Compromise’ before eventually drifting into an intermittent hiatus.
Odega – 5-pc band formed 2001, feat ex members of Gheko. Jamie Backhouse (gtr), Phil Mason, Peter Jackson (both ex Ugsy). Responsible for running the ‘Honky Tonk’ nights at The Zanzibar. Have just (Sep03) completed some studio work with Mark Coyle, the man who produced Oasis ‘Definately Maybe’. Spilt up in 2005. Phil Mason went on to form the Last Gambados (still going). Jamie Backhouse went on to play for, and is still playing guitar for Candie Payne (sister of Howie Payne from the Stands and Sean Payne from the Zutons) and also Edgar Jones and the Joneses (band of former Stairs front man Edgar ‘Summertyme’). (website)
Ogun – Liverpool metal-thrash band (formed Jul02), feat; Phil (voc,gtr), Andy (gtr), Danny (drms), Cliff (bass). Previous members included Anthony (bass) Oct02–Apr03, Mike (bass) Apr03–May04, Richie (drms) Jul02–Jun05, and Dan (bass) May04–Jul05. Emerging as “pioneers of Pyar Metal,” the group became stalwarts of the Merseyside scene, supporting acts like Necrophagist and Byzantine at iconic venues like the Krazyhouse and The Picket. After a lengthy fourteen-year hiatus that began in 2008, the core duo of Andy Evans and Danny Lightfoot reformed the band in 2022, eventually releasing their debut album ‘Scouse Of Heaven’ and performing at the Bloodstock Festival. (website)
Oh Mother – Liverpool alt-rock/grunge/experimental band (c2023–present), feat; Zong Xu Steinhoff (voc,gtr), Odelia Elliott (bass), Mia Oldham (drms), Matteo Tondi (sound/tech). They’re an emerging act that blend elements of 90s grunge with soul-jazz and progressive rock energy in their live shows, drawing attention on the local scene and playing gigs in venues such as Kazimier Stockroom in Liverpool. The group formed around members associated with Liverpool music education and creative communities, honing a dynamic, genre-blurring sound that’s built around intense instrumentation and evocative songwriting. Their 2024 collection ‘Tourismo’ showcases a range of tracks from reflective pieces like One Of Those Days to the punchier All I Need, reflecting both breadth and experimentation in their material. (website)
The Oh Yeahs – Liverpool band (late 80s), feat; Mal Brookfield (bass) (ex Vanilla Beserk, Experimental Gardens, Jabber Karran, 0898). Formed during a prolific period for Brookfield following his departure from the guitar-and-synth outfit Vanilla Beserk around 1986, the group was part of a tight-knit Merseyside collective that frequently rehearsed at Vulcan Street Studios. While the band remained a relatively short-lived fixture of the late eighties indie scene, its members were deeply embedded in the local circuit, with Brookfield moving between various projects including the punk-influenced 0898 and the experimental sounds of Jabber Karran.
Oi! Skally – Birkenhead band (c1992), feat; Mikey (voc), Sid (voc), Day (gtr), Huffy (bass), Chris (drms). This short-lived outfit were known for their rowdy dual-vocal attack before eventually splitting. Following the breakup, guitarist Day and bassist Huffy (Chris Hough) moved into the flamboyant, wrestling-themed metal-surf band Blue Demon, with Day eventually going on to play with State Terror.
Oi! The Fanzine – A one-off publication from scouse skinhead brothers, Garry and Mark Fielding, with a little help from their friend, Hocky, later to feature in Birkenhead-based band, Instant Agony. Put together in 1982, just as the Oi! Scene was hitting its stride, it featured the usual Oi stalwarts, namely the 4-Skins, Infa-Riot, Combat 84, The Business and Gal Bushell.
Oklamotif – project feat; Steve Day (voc,gtr) (Bless The Weather) and Ian Powell (bass) (ex Alien Heat), both ex 11:59. Had song Msykwctc on Modesty Kill comp LP (Audiovisual Jan88). See also Day 2
Old Ma Cuxsom – St Helens band, rel 7″ Don’t Scare Me (Sossy Possanger recs Jun86).
051 – Liverpool punk-new wave band (formed Jul77), feat; Dave Jackson (voc), Steve Cockrill (gtr), Beckey Stringer (bass), Helen Stringer (sax), Paul Hornby (drms). Named after the local dialling code, the group emerged from the first wave of the Merseyside punk explosion, making their debut at the legendary Eric’s club in late 1977. Despite their short lifespan, the band served as a vital springboard for its members: Jackson and Beckey Stringer went on to form the critically acclaimed group The Room, while Hornby became one of the most prolific drummers in the UK scene, performing with acts ranging from Nightmares In Wax to The Quireboys. Their setlist included early staples such as Waiting For The Man and 051.
0898 – Birkenhead punk band (late 80s), feat; Hocky (voc) (see also Instant Agony, Bite Back, Fuckin’ Angry), Mal Brookfield (bass) (see The Oh Yeahs, Vanilla Beserk). Fast-paced, aggressive outfit that drew heavily from the members’ shared history in local hardcore and street punk circles. Played at venues like the Birkenhead Hotel and various community centres. Members moved on to projects like State Terror and further iterations of the Wirral’s punk lineage.
One Last Fight – neo-vega-garage band (1984-87), feat; Ian ‘Bucko’ Buckley (voc,gtr) (ex Outer Limits, Falcons later Buckley, 56 Kiss), Martin Nickson (bass), Paul ‘Lev’ Levick (drms). Rel; 4 track demo (1985), 12″ Menage a Trois (Skysaw recs Jan86) & Catchy Candy on Ways To Wear Coats comp LP (Oct86). Split when Paul left
One Little Indian – label formed by St Helens punk band Flux of Pink Indians in 1987 & rel ‘Uncarved Block’ by Flux (Apr87) & went on to become commercially huge.
One Man Orgy – punk-emo band (formed 2005), feat; Bryan (voc,gtr), Cliff (bass) (also Ogun), John (gtr), Merv (drms). (website)
One Two – Liverpool post-punk band (late 70s), feat; Alix Johnson (voc,gtr), Danny Hampson (bass). Formed as an evolution of the short-lived Luglo Slugs, the duo represented a crucial transitional phase in the Merseyside music landscape during the fertile post-punk era of 1978. Operating as a creative bridge, the project eventually morphed into Tank Time before the core members found widespread acclaim as the driving force behind Modern Eon. While their recorded output under this specific moniker remained sparse, the experimental groundwork laid during this period—marked by Johnson’s distinctive vocal delivery and Hampson’s rhythmic precision—became the blueprint for the atmospheric sound found on the ‘Fiction Tales’ album.
One Way Ticket To Cubesville – fanzine from Formby (c1990) edited by the demented Richard who relocated to Manchester and is still at it!!!
Only After Dark – band (1980-81), prev called The Electric Hoax until Kris Kordich (voc,gtr), joined orig members Andy Hennessey (gtr,keys), Tony Hennessey (bass) (later Colin, Innisfree), Brian McGorry (drms). Debut gig Woolton Labour Club. Kordich answered an advert to join a band in the vein of early Ultravox. Played several times in Woolton Labour Club to an audience of friends and disgruntled Labour Club members who told the band to ‘turn it down’. Rec a 3-track Yesterday/Fashion Years/Japanese Cars cassette release at Hambi’s Ullet Road Pink Studios which still sounds fresh 30 odd years later. Split when the original members of the band found out that Kordich was touting the tapes around to London record companies making out they were recorded by another band he was in.
Only Child – Liverpool Americana band, feat; Alan O’Hare (voc); Jon Lawton (gtr,bass,keys); Lee Shone (keys); Amy Chalmers (violins); Stu Todd (bass); Howard Northover (drms) (also of Big Unit Agricultural Regime); Fiona McConnell (fulte); Matt Lawton (dbl bass). Have rel 2 EPs and 3 albums since 2012.
The Onset – Liverpool indie-roots band (formed 1987), feat; Mike Badger (voc,gtr) (ex The La’s, Kindergarten Paintset), Paul Hemmings (gtr,mandolin) (ex The La’s, later Lightning Seeds), Danny Dean (gtr), Simon Cousins (bass) (ex Ophiuchus), Tony Russell (drms) (ex The La’s). Established by Badger after his departure from The La’s, the group pioneered an “alt-country” and rockabilly-inflected sound often described as “Scouse-abilly.” Their debut album ‘The Pool Of Life’ was recorded at Ameritz Studios in May 1988 and released on Probe Plus, featuring tracks like Too Proud To Start and Precious Love. Played Glastonbury and the Edinburgh Festival, and even filmed a video at Liverpool’s Pier Head for the ‘What Say You’ EP. While the original line-up fractured in the early nineties—leading Hemmings to join the Lightning Seeds and Cousins to join the Catfish—Badger later revived the moniker for the 1994 release ‘The Pool Of Life Revisited’ and a 2005 eponymous album featuring unreleased sessions produced by Hemmings.
Onslaught – Birkenhead punk band (formed 1980), feat; Colin (voc), Degsy (gtr), Steve (bass), Spike (drms). Taking their cues from the aggressive second wave of UK hardcore, specifically the d-beat and street punk sounds of Discharge and GBH, the quartet became a volatile fixture of the Wirral underground for several years before splitting in early 1984. The band recorded a raw four-track demo at the height of their activity, featuring staples of their live set such as No Solution, Bored To Death, Britannia, Parton Downs, and Madman. Following the group’s dissolution, at least one member transitioned into the local outfit Final Cut.
On Tick – Liverpool indie-pop quartet (mid-1990s–present), feat; Barry Finch (voc,gtr), Simon Brown (gtr), Phillip Bernia (bass), Simon Birtles (drms). Forming in the mid-90s, the band bypassed the polished clichés of the Britpop era in favor of a “growling” indie sound that combined gritty, socially-aware lyricism with high-energy melodic hooks. Supported acts like The Damned and Toyah Willcox. One of their most enduring tracks, Kick It, highlights the band’s penchant for blending catchy arrangements with darker subject matter, dealing specifically with the impact of drug addiction. Demonstrating remarkable longevity in a city often focused on the “next big thing,” the original line-up has remained largely intact for over thirty years, continuing to record and perform.
Ooberman – band feat; Dan Popplewell (voc), Andy Flett (gtr), Steve Flett (bass), Sophia Churney (voc), Alan Kelly (drms). Began as a school band in Bradford 1989 by Dan & brothers Andy and Steve came to Live in Liverpool. Ooberman formed in Liverpool 1997 when Sophia joined. Rel single ‘Sugar Bum’ on Graham Coxon’s Transcopic label. Then the successful Shorley Wall EP followed winning The Times Single of the Year leading to a major record deal. First album ‘The Magic Treehouse’ led to a top 40 hit (Blossoms Falling), but were dropped after 3 more singles didn’t make the top 40. Formed their own label Rotodisc Recordings in 2001 &; rel ‘Running Girl’ mini-album in Oct01, which drew wide acclaim and releases in the USA and Japan, followed by US live performances. 2nd album ‘Hey Petrunko’, named after a Bulgarian folk-song released early 2003.
Ooze Band – variation of Big Bill’s Ooze Band and Obie Man Banned. Had track Sweet Sue on Blues Vol 2 comp LP (Bopadub Oct86)
Oooze – Ambient techno duo (c1995–1997), feat; members unknown. Part of the experimental electronic wave associated with the Mantra Communications and Ochre Records labels, the pair specialised in textured, rhythmic soundscapes that bridged the gap between chill-out and IDM. Their most notable contribution was the track Tulip, Turnip, Brussel Sprout, which appeared on the 1997 compilation CD ‘Coming Round At Callums’ (OCH 003L). They also released the 12″ single ‘Innocent’ on Mantra Coms (MANT004) in 1995, featuring the tracks Innocent and 32%. Their work is remembered for its intricate layering and organic-industrial fusion, fitting perfectly into the boutique electronic scene of the mid-nineties.
Open Eye Records – Liverpool independent label (c1979–1983), run by Bill Butt (founder), Kevin McManus (founder). Established as an offshoot of the Open Eye Gallery on Whitechapel, the label became a vital outlet for the city’s post-punk and new wave explosion, famously releasing the debut 7″ by Those Naughty Lumps, ‘Iggy Pop’s Jacket’ (OE 001), in 1979. The label’s roster captured the eclectic “Second City” sound of the era, issuing records by diverse acts such as The Glass Torpedoes, Motion Pictures, and The Jactitators, as well as the ‘Street To Street: A Liverpool Compilation’ (1979) which featured early tracks by Echo & The Bunnymen and The Teardrop Explodes. Known for its DIY ethos and stark, artistic sleeve designs, the imprint eventually wound down in the early eighties as its founders moved into film production and music journalism, leaving behind a definitive catalogue of the Merseyside underground’s transition from punk to pop.
Ophiuchus – formed 1986 by Simon Cousins (bass) (later The OnSet), Jon Cousins (gtr) (later Wicca Man), Myke Vince (drms), Pete Causer (melodeon), and Pat D’Arcy (sax) (later Wicca Man). Joined by Xavier Tutein (bass) in 1987. Rel single ‘Song For Pym’ 1987, followed by 2nd single ‘Serpent and the Beared King’ through Probe Plus 1988, and LP ‘Pronounced Offee-ick-Cuss’ on Probe Plus 1989. LP feat Mike Badger and Simon Cousins from the OnSet. Band split in 1990
Opium Eaters – band who rehearsed in sept’78, but never really got off the ground. Feat; Paul Rutherford (ex Spitfire Boys), Pete Wylie (gtr)(ex Crucial Three, Nova Mob later of Crash Course, Wah!)
Opposition – band (1979-80), feat; Alan Peters (voc,keys) (ex Almost Blues, Supercharge, 29th & Dearborn, later Lawnmower), Terry Canning (bass), Richie Winn (gtr) (ex 29th & Dearborn), John Milo (drms), Kenny Roberts (gtr) (ex 29th & Dearborn, later Lawnmower). Had big line up change in 1980 with Alan & Terry remaining, joined by Terry Sterling (drms) (later Afraid of Mice), Lenny Vartel (gtr), Andy Hughes (bass) (later Joker), Bill Nighey (voc). Changed name to Love Ponies.
Orchestral Manoeuvres In The Dark (OMD) – formed summer 1978 by Paul Humphreys (keys) (ex The Id, Hitlerz Underpants) & Andy McCluskey (voc,bass) (ex The Id, Hitlerz Underpants, Pegasus), David Hughes (keys), Martin Cooper (sax), Malcolm Holmes (drms) (ex Equinox). Orig called VCLXI. Played 1st gig at Eric’s 12.10.78 & were soon signed to Factory Recs who pressed 5,000 copies of Electricity (1979) which John Peel played many times. A tour followed with Joy Division & A Certain Ratio & Din Disc signed them & reissued the single & they toured with Gary Numan (sep79). Feb80 they rel the single Red Frame quickly followed by the #27 hit LP ‘Orchestral Manoeuvres in The Dark’ which David Fairbairn (gtr) was involved. Enola Gay was the big breakthrough (#8) Rel Sep80 it was a hit in Europe & Japan. 2nd LP ‘Organisation’ was rel Oct80 (#6). By 1985 the band had released numerous hit singles & 3 worldwide hit LPs, released ‘Crush’ that spring & to promote their 7th LP ‘Pacific Age’ they embarked on a Pacific tour of Australia, NZ, Japan, Hong Kong, Canada, USA & UK. Andy McCluskey went on to work with Atomic Kitten and in interview once said he regretted not having taken steps in that direction earlier.
Orchid Falls – pop band from Anfield (1984-85) feat; Gary Bush (voc,gtr), Sam McCosh (bass), Diane Love (keys), Paul Ryan (drms). Rel 2track demotape (rec at Pink and eng by Gary Wilkinson of China Crisis), tracks An Eternity, Celebrate. Ryan left and the other 3 became Fashion Play
Original Man – band, rel cassette ‘Anthrax Bomb Nightmare’. Also a label ran from O’Brien Enterprise, Brighton Road, Birkdale, Southport.
Original Mirrors – (1978-81) band feat; Steve Allen (voc) (ex Deaf School, Perils in Plastic), Ian Broudie (gtr) (later Big in Japan, Lightning Seeds, Care, Wild Swans), Jimmy Hughes (bass), Jonathon Perkins (keys) (later Silver Spurs), Pete Kircher (drms) (later Status Quo). Signed to Mercury, rel 4 singles, Could This Be Heaven, Boys Cry, Time Has Come, Dancing With The Rebels. 2 LPs ‘Original Mirrors’ & ‘Heart-Twango & Raw Beat’ (on which Phil Spalding played bass). More info req’d.
Ornament – thrash metal band (formed 2005), feat; Mark Downing (voc), Ste Preston (drms), Steve Hargraves (gtr), Paul Preston (bass).
The Other Voice – name used by Think of The Winter (c1982)
Out – Liverpool indie band, (c1990), featuring Pete Bentham (later of The Dinner Ladies). Rel 7″ single 21st Century Man (1998 on Whipcord) and CD LP ‘Vivienne Westwood Said’ (1999)
Outer Limits – rockabilly/psychobilly group feat; Ian Buckley (gtr,voc) (ex Falcons, later One Last Fight, Buckley, 56 Kiss), Bernie Nolan (ex Falcons), Denny (dbl bass), Barry (drms) (sales assistant at Probe – to continue a long running tradition!). Tony Bolland (ex Animated Classics, later Sex Lies & Religion) also drummed at some point. Denny was 15 at the time & went onto play gtr for Caprice. They were actually very good, and supported The Meteors at Planet X which at the time was in Macmillans, Concert Square. May have also supported The Guana Batz at The Mardi Gras off Bold Street, & did play Larks In The Park fest (1983).
Out of Step – Spital punk-hardcore fanzine (c1984), edited by Pete T, ran for at least one issue. More info req’d
Out On A Ledge – band (c1987) orig called The Project then Cair Paravel. Feat; Bernie Ross (gtr) (ex Dark Delights, Innervision), Karl Anthony (bass) (ex Danse Macabre, Innervision), Dave Scott (drms) (ex Innervision). Signed to Warners
Outpost – Liverpool venue and pizza bar (opened 2018), feat; 100% independent ownership. Located on Renshaw Street, the space underwent a significant transformation in 2018 when it took over from the legendary Maguires Pizza Bar, maintaining its predecessor’s DIY spirit while expanding its horizons. As a dedicated 100% vegan and vegetarian New York-style pizza specialist, the venue has become a cornerstone of the Merseyside counter-culture, offering a dog-friendly environment paired with a curated selection of craft beers. Hosting live music and diverse artistes almost nightly, it serves as a vital hub for the city’s grassroots scene, providing a platform for everything from touring punk bands to local experimental electronic acts. (facebook)
Outta Limits – UK alternative music radio show (c2017–2026), hosted by Liam Trotsky (and originally with Martin Ward). The show began broadcasting on 22.08.17 and has continued weekly ever since, earning a global listenership for its focus on punk, indie, ska and other alternative and underground genres while presenting eclectic and enthusiastic curation. Liam Trotsky developed the programme’s identity around a passion for new and niche sounds, maintaining its presence through station moves and format shifts and currently airing on Wirral Live Radio every Tuesday evening between 8–10pm. The show’s blend of underground music and presenter insight has helped promote lesser heard artists and scenes, keeping alive the spirit of grassroots radio that supports independent music culture across the UK and beyond. (listen)
Owls* – band (c2010) feat; Etienne (bass), Adam (drms), Carl (gtr), Tom (voc). Rehearse above the Leaf Tea Shop. (website)
Oxiris – Samba band from the Wirral (formed 2002), featured in the film ‘Fated’ (on Ace Films rel 24.11.06). The band is a loose formation of members of the Wirral School of Samba (website)