Liverpool: Sl – Sz

Sleive Khan – punk band of late 70s, feat; Julian Crowe (bass) (later Ad Lib, Dance the Girl). Supported The Shattered Dolls at a gig in Heswall in 1979 also attended by then mentor Mike McGear/McCartney (Paul McCartney’s brother), Julian recalled that they knocked on Mike McCartney’s door, and he invited them in, telling them “in life you must knock on doors and that you will either be invited in for a cup of tea or told to fuck off.” Accounts describe their music as “fast furious and angry” and their lyrics were critical of the police, referencing the death of Jimmy Kelly in Huyton police station in 1980. The band is known to have recorded a demo tape, but its existence and contents are not widely documented or readily available. 

Sliced Bread – band formed in 1982 by Davy Dover (bass) (ex Supercharge, Colonel Bagshot, now Space Cadets), Keith Mullholland (bass), Michael Railton (keys) (later Afos, Keep It Dark), Dave Lloyd (voc). Managed by Alan Comer. Keith was a veteran of the Liverpool rock scene, notably a member of the hard rock band Nutz (formed 1973) as was Dave Lloyd.

The Slops – Formed in the summer of ’84 by Instant Agony’s Hocky after he left Birkenhead and moved to London Very little known about the band, apart from the fact that Hocky had written a couple of songs: ‘Sticks and Stones’ and ‘On the Slag Heap’. Plans were also afoot to record Sweet’s ‘Teenage Rampage’. Not clear if the band ever recorded a demo, or even gigged.

Slow Motion Stranger – played the Zanzibar 18.02.04. More info req’d

Slums – punk band, formed in school 1980. Feat; Mark Smallwood, Paul, Dave and Tommy. Described as a cross between UK Subs and PiL. More info req’d

Smiley – band formed 1996. Feat; Joel Morton (voc), Chris Kelly (gtr), Ben Gordon (gtr), Craig Williams (bass) and Bryan Johnson (drms). Showed huge promise as a young alternative band. Released self financed mini-LP, toured UK and East Europe. Disbanded Sep00. Bryan and Ben went onto to join Pinhole (later called The Dead 60s). Craig Williams to The Mighty Saguaro.

Smaller – Formed in the early 90’s by main songwriter Peter Deary AKA Digsy (voc,gtr) (ex Cook Da Books). Digsy drafted in his younger brother Stephen Deary (drms), Jason Riley (gtr,voc), and Paul Cavanagh (bass). After gigging regularly around the country they rel their 1st single ‘God I Hate This Town/It’s Closed’ on indie label Better Recs (BetCD002). Sadly Smaller or more accurately Digsy was better known for being a mate of Noel Gallagher, who guest’d on their only LP. Apparently Noel named the track Digsy’s Diner from ‘Definitely Maybe’ after the Smaller drummer. Better Recs put out a further 2 singles with the Sep96 rel ‘Wasted/Aimless’ reaching #72 in the UK chart. The follow up ‘Is/All The Same To Me’ fared better reaching #55 and was taster for the LP ‘Badly Badly’ in May97 (BET CD/LP 003). The LP presented the group’s self depreciating lyrics detailing their times in the pop/rock hinterland. Sadly the lyrics were somewhat prosaic and sales failed to materialise, this was their final release and Smaller split shortly after (YTMusic)

Small Mercies – Impressively proficient and tight guitar pop power trio, feat; Graham Silcock (gtr,voc), Mike Seal (bass), Nick Ward (drms). Formed Jan89 with Ian Bellchambers (bass) (joined band with guy called Bendy(?), then guitar tech for Rain). Brief spell with Nick Loebner (also Higgsfield, Dead Mens Suits, Uncle Oscar), Dave Dobson (bass) – Mike joined Oct89. Hundreds of L’pool gigs (hence the Boo Radleys joke ‘What do you call more than 3 people in a room ? – A Small Mercies gig’) and a couple of UK tours. Split late 91 on verge of rel debut EP (songs ‘Kingdom Never Come’, ‘Middle Man’ & ‘Slow Down’). Graham & Mike went on to form Tin Gods, Nick did some live session work with 25th of May

Smega Tapes – cassette label of early 80s, ran from Trentham Ave, Liverpool, L18 Mossley Hill/Allerton area.

Zara Smile – (born 2003/4) is an alternative folk pop artist (real name, Zara Nixon). Smile captures audiences with their honest and raw lyricism, inspired by the likes of Laura Marling and Joni Mitchell, combined with influences from Riot Grrrl punk and Broadway. With their intoxicating sound, they are focused on speaking through their lens as a queer person of colour, with a comfortable and electric energy. Has recorded with Abbie Stokes (bass), Warren Matthews (gtr), Chris Ellis (drms), Liv Nakar (sax), Zara Merican (violin), Chloe-Marie Dewey (cello), Cole Guest (drms), James Cochrane (bass), Kae Wallbridge (gtr). Released debut EP ‘Smile’ (May23), followed by a few singles including Rewind (14.08.25) (bandcamp)

Smithdown Festival – held in Smithdown Road and surrounding areas (including Penny Lane), Liverpool. Historically, it has taken place twice a year: over the May Day Bank Holiday weekend and an additional event in October and is famously free entry across all participating venues. Showcasing a huge program of live music (all genres, from rock and indie to jazz and electronic), DJs, arts, spoken word, and family-friendly events. It is a truly grassroots event, organised by local people (initially by Andy Scott and Kevin McArthur) with the aim of celebrating the local community and bringing cohesion to the area. The festival is a major fundraiser for a local cause, historically supporting The Whitechapel Centre, a charity dedicated to tackling homelessness in Liverpool. Donations are encouraged at all venues. Smithdown Festival utilises multiple venues along the road, such as Handyman Bar, Black Cat, Bean There, Penny Lane Wine Bar, and others, often with dedicated stages or programming. It was first established in 2015 to try and bring local bars and businesses together and attract interest in the area. (website)

Snake Bite – punk fanzine from Maghull of late 80s, edited by Donny. Was called Get Set Go for 1st issue. Donny was also in Maghull punk band Donnyfatso & The Bellybuttons.

Snakes Everywhere – three-piece Liverpool pop-punk band (formed around 2016), feat; Kate (voc,bass) (also of Sheepy). Played Smithdown Festival (May25), which was their first full band show in three years! (facebook)

Snapshots – early 80s band, feat; Ian Barry (bass) (ex Destroyers later of Sneax), John Reynolds (aka Riff) (gtr), Fred (drms). The band was an early incarnation, or part of the evolutionary lineage, of the later Liverpool band 3D A Fish In Sea (later shortened to 3D). The name Mark Barry (bass) pops up, this may have been Ian as when left to join Sneax, the band went through a key change with Roy Campbell (originally on guitar) moved to bass, Steve Spurgin joined on keys. Richie Holmes (voc) and Phil Martin (sax) were also part of this lineup. The band changed its name from Snapshots to 3D A Fish In Sea.

Snappertronics – (c2004) described as Liverpool’s finest Dub Reggae group, a claim well deserved. Marty Snape (ex Zeb) drives the bass, and is a central figure in the Liverpool underground/experimental music scene and has been involved in several prominent bands including; The Hat Band, Babadub, The Dub Jazz Sound System and Bulbs. Two releases have appeared online in 2017, an album ‘Ten’ and an EP ‘Hit It’ (YTMusic)

Snatch-Back – St Helens band formed 1974 in St Helens, playing a hard driving blues rock/metal, heavily influenced by bands like Black Sabbath, Led Zeppelin, Thin Lizzy, and Mott the Hoople. They were part of the early New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) scene. (Original Lineup) John Cowley (voc), Ste Byatt (gtr), Ian Wood (bass), and Steven Platt (drms). They released a single: Eastern Lady / Cryin’ to the Night in 1979. They had a track on the Rockzene comp tape (1983), and also recorded an analog demo session at Amazon Studios in Liverpool in 1982, which included the fun track Boogie Shoes (about condoms) and was later released on a limited-edition cassette. They frequently played the local metal club Geraldo, and venues like Liverpool Stadium and Liverpool Empire, and co-ran a successful local gig partnership for several years. They split in 1983 and reformed in 2016 and have been active (up to 2025) since. Have also at some point featured Dave Taylor (gtr) (ex Dying Breed). (YTMusic)

Sneax – early 80s band, feat; John Corner (ex Eleanor), Ian Barry (bass) (ex Destroyers, 3D A Fish In Sea, Snapshots), Roy Martin (drms). Managed by Clive Epstein (Brian’s brother). Played Royal Court 18.04.81. The song Domino was to be their debut single but they split in 1981 when Roy left to join Motion Pictures. More info req’d.

Snow Company – label for L’pool-Hull band England Under Snow, run by Tim Joseph of Hull (1984-88)

Soapside Records – label, released 7″ by Blazing Saddles called Free George Jackson / Brookside Theme. It was a one-off or temporary label set up by (or in connection with) the producers of the TV show Brookside to release a novelty single that blurred the line between the on-screen storyline and real-life popular music marketing in 1985

Social Confusion – punk band of early 80s with a Johnny Rotten soundalike vocalist. More info req’d

Social Disease – punk band (c1982). There was a Bristol band with this name from the same era. More info req’d

Social Rejects – punk band from Huyton (c1980) name also spelt ssocial rejectss, feat; Phil ‘Pip’ Everet (voc), John ‘Evo’ Everet (bass), Tony Ellison (gtr), Andy Barklem (gtr), Davo (drms). Played Roscoe Arms, Renshaw St. and Swinging Apple. There is a guy called Tomohawk who took loads of 16mm film footage, and a Canadian guy who took loads of stills. Fan of the band Andy Barklem says, ‘They played gigs in Lawerence Road community hall where massive fight broke out. Also in some shite Social club in Birkenhead, we were part of the biggest punk gang in Liverpool, I was only 16 years of age at the time; Mavvis from the La’s was one of many.’ The music was fast furious and angry. The police came into stark criticism in their lyrics for their heavy hand and brutality. Jimmy Kelly had recently died whilst on remand in Huyton police station in 1980, after being arrested outside the Oak Tree pub. “Arrest me for something I didn’t do, Arrest me oh yeah that’s nothing new’. Pete Pennell joined the band later as drummer, he says, ‘I got the job after me and Davo had a play off in a squat in Arundal Avenue (off Smithdown Rd).’ Pete was drumming at the Roscoe and Apple gigs and ‘places I was too pissed to remember.’ They did record a demo tape (hopefully someone still has a copy) (see also Roscoe Arms)

Society Of Losers – small, independent record label primarily focused on nurturing new and established artists within the UK’s underground and alternative music scene. The label is characterized by its collaborative and supportive structure, being run by Krystian Hudson (often using the alias “Krystian Yeah Buddy”), who typically handles booking and DIY aspects of the label (he also fronts Salt The Snail), and Craig Twigg (of Infants), who usually serves as the press and publicity contact. Society of Losers is noted for its alliance with the label 9×9 Records. They have combined resources and efforts, including joint releases and promotions, while maintaining their distinct identities. This partnership helps broaden the reach and catalog for both imprints. (website)

Soft Toy Emergency – electropop / dance-rock band (2008-10), feat; Jen (voc), George (bass), Luciano (synths), Andy (guitar), and Will (drums). Jen was the energetic frontwoman, known for her captivating stage presence. After the band disbanded, she went on to pursue a solo electro-pop career as Jennifer Davies, working with people like The Wombats’ Tord. Released I Kno U Want It (2009) and Critical (2009 on Friends Vs Records). Major festival slots included: Glastonbury, Reading & Leeds (on the BBC Introducing Stage), V Festival, and Isle of Wight Festival (all around the summer of 2009). (YTMusic)

Some Day Blue – band (1983-84) featured members of Jealous Heart, including Kev Howins (drms). Previously called The Issue. Released 7″ Dark Room (Raucous Nov83) & split soon after. Became a 3-piece called The Web, who, as the three-piece continuation of Some Day Blue, continued the musical lineage but had a different, tighter lineup (YTMusic)

Some Detergents – Wirral band, released a 3-track 7″ ‘Modern Problems’ (cat- WIPE1) (Jun82) with red and yellow popart sleeve of a washing machine on the front. (YTMusic) More info req’d

Something French – band (1983-84), feat; Brian Jones (bass), Tim Lees (voc,keys) (both ex Select Committee), Elektra (voc). Rec demo at Pink Studios. More info req’d

Some Party – formed 1985 with 3 members of Dorian Gray, Ray Greenall (bass), Brian Cornthwaite (voc) and Steve Reddy (keys) they found drummer Mark Roberts (drms) (ex Skyscrapers, later Tambourines) andPhil Hughes (gtr) (ex Bushfinder, later US Companion)  Had lots of record company interest, most notably from Clive Black of EMI who paid for them to record a 24 track demo at Amazon studios, something which was practically unheard of back then. Had a major management company interested too but unfortunately, as is all too common in the music business, the longed for ‘big break’ failed to materialise and the band split in 1989.

Sonic Assault – Wirral punk band, feat; Joe Hinson (voc), Paul Curtis (gtr), Liam ‘Trotsky’ Johnston (gtr), Si Webster(bass), Neil rees (drms). Released LP ‘WTF?’ (27.01.26). Liam presents the Outta Limits radio show. (bandcamp)

Sonic Death Attack – Toxteth band (1988), never got past rehearsal stage, feat’ Pete Fuck (drms), Duncan Dregs (of Dregs zine). Rehearsed in the Bone Cellar (as earlier used by Frankie Goes To Hollywood and later by The La’s)

Sonic Lodge – band, feat; John Paul (later of The Dry Retch) More info req’d

Sonic Rednecks – band, feat; Aussie John and Dave Whyte (both later of The Dry Retch)

Sonic Spectrum – electro outfit from Bright Newton, Wirral (c2009), feat; Hal Nein-Townsend, Dave Baumann and Frank Pool. (website)

Sonny & A Million – band (formed early 84) feat; Simon Bennet (voc,gtr) (ex Hoi Polloi, later Grown Up Strange), James Roberts (ex Hoi Polloi), Kee Wright, Paul Smith. Split same year.

SOS – recording studio, now called Crash

Sossy Possanger Recs – label run by St Helens band, Old Ma Cuxsom, rel 7″ Don’t Scare Me (Jun86)

Soundhouse – recording studio

South Parade – band (formed 1983), orig called Rich Get Richer, feat; Ian Copestake (voc,gtr) (later Lilac Trumpets), Ian Wadkins (bass), John Hamlin (keys), Delia Winstanley (sax), Phil Culshaw (drms), Andy Maher (gtr), Band split then reformed in London 1991, feat; Andy Maher, Terry Jones (bass) (ex Blue Forest, Third Man), Ian, & Justin Welch (drms) (later of Elastica). Terry says: ‘After some spectacular shows in London (an infamous one at the Falcon, when we were all so messed up after an all day drinking session that we thought we were The Who), Justin left to join Spitfire and me and Ian decided to call it a day in Oct 91.’

Bobby Sox – see Section B1

Space – band (formed 1992) initially as a trio of Tommy Scott (voc,bass) (later The Drellas), Jamie Murphy (voc,gtr) and Jamie Island (drms), who was later replaced by Andy Parle (ex Western Diplomats). Franny Griffiths (keys) (ex Hello Sunset) joined a year later, and the band signed to Gut Records (15.01.95), eventually rising to prominence with hit singles such as Female Of The Species“. When Dave ‘Yorkie’ (bass) (ex Dance Party, Egypt For Now, Balcony, Moongoose) joined Tommy switched to vocals. Band had several lineup changes, with Scott being the only consistent member. Other members have been Phil Hartley (bass) (later Super Fast Girlie Show, The Drellas, The Ponderosa Glee Boys), Leon Caffrey and Ryan Clarke. Their first two albums, ‘Spiders’ (1996) and ‘Tin Planet’ (1998), achieved great success and went platinum in the UK, along with scoring eight UK Top 40 singles. Work on their proposed third album, ‘Love You More Than Football’, was marred by difficulties and was eventually shelved once the band were released from their contract with Gut. Space disbanded in 2005, following low sales and a lukewarm reception to their fourth album ‘Suburban Rock ‘n’ Roll’ (2004), which was nonetheless acclaimed by fans. Before Space, Tommy was in The Australians, The Substitutes and Hello Sunset.

Space Cadets – Wirral based rock group that have been very active for a number of years, playing all the local venues. Feat; Gary Brown (voc) (also Led Zed), Paul Ryan (drms) (also of The Showbizkids), Davy Dover (bass), (ex Supercharge, Colonel Bagshot, Sliced Bread, Herbie Pops Out), Mick Devonport (gtr) (ex Nutz, Rage) (website)

Special Brew – band (formed 1981) feat; Mark McGann (later Mojo filter, McGann Brothers), Eithne Hannigan (an actor at Everyman Theatre). More info req’d

Speckled Penguin Kraze – band from The Wirral, self released C-60 cassette ‘Leaving The Tape Machine On For Too Long’ . More info req’d.

Speedmonkey – ska-punk band (2003) feat; James ‘Hammy’ Hammond (gtr,voc), Claire Delahunty (drms), James Webb (bass), Tom dring (sax,voc), Vicky Weare (trmpt), Char Weare (trmpt). Split 2005.

Speed Promotions – cassette label of early 80s, ran from Bently Road, L’pool

Spiffy – band (1979-81), feat; Jim Brown (bass), Mick Kelly (gtr) (both later in Shortlist). More info req’d

Spirits – band, (late 90s), feat; Ronni O’Keefe (bass), Nicky Williams (voc) (both ex Singing Ringing Trees), Matt Riley (gtr), Mark Roberts (drms), Dave Jackson (keys) Manager Bud Prager (ex Foreigner) signed to Rocket/Island, rel an LP. Ronni now producer of others and owns own recording studio in L’pool. A video was also made for their debut single ‘Drive’ whilst in California.

Spitfire Boys – punk band formed 14.5.77 six weeks after meeting The Heartbreakers and finding they needed a support band for an upcoming gig. Feat; Paul Rutherford aka Maggot (voc) (later Opium Eaters, Frankie Goes To Hollywood), Dave Littler aka Jones (gtr) (later Photons), Peter Griffiths aka Zero (bass) (later of Nova Mob), Budgie (Peter Clarke aka Blister) (drms) (later Nova Mob, Big in Japan, Opium Eaters, Secrets, Planets, Slits, Siouxsie & The Banshees, Creatures). Their first gig was supporting the Heartbreakers at Parr Hall, Warrington. Orig called The Blackmailers; their new name came courtesy of Wayne County – David Littler spoke to him at Eric’s and mentioned the Heartbreakers gig and asked Wayne for a suitable name! Very popular in L’pool & claimed to be the 1st punk band from the city (well, St Helens). Also played the punk clubs in London. Orig singer Mike Rigby was sacked after 2 or 3 gigs, Pete Wylie joined in Dec77 for a few rehearsals. Split 22.12.77. Dave rec Funtime in Wales in 1979 & RKO Recs rel it encouraging him to use the Spitfire Boys name.

Spiteful Void – punk/crust band (c2025), feat; Mikhel Chernobyl (voc), Terry Foster (bass), Tom Simms (drms) and Fane (gtr) (who joined later). Almost the Guac n Roll Vegan Kitchen house band as Mikhel runs the venue, Terry mans the door and Tom is the sound engineer. Released ‘The Corpse Of Hope EP’ (03.06.25) (bandcamp)

Spit ya Pippins – band feat; Peter Alcock (drms) (later Caroline 199). More info req’d

Spiv Recs – label ran from 24, Devonshire Road, L’Pool, L8 in late 70s by Chris Bray. Rel single by Accelerators (Dec79), Surface Tension (Mar83), Adams Family (Nov87).

Splinter – band of late 60s/early 70s feat; Kenny Farrell (gtr,voc); Peter Cribley (voc), Billy Good (bass) John Vasco (gtr) (ex Pure Instinct, Dinsdale) and Steve Dittmer (drms). Not to be confused with the George Harrison-sponsored ‘Splinter’ of later years. Played the Top Rank Suite, L’pool (Apr72).

Split Gut – Birkenhead band c1980, feat; Nigel Blackwell (later of North of Watford, Half Man Half Biscuit). More info req’d.

The Sponge – band of late 60’s feat; Lawrence Arends (drms), changed name in 1970 to Pacific Drift

Ricky Spontane – band feat; David Wright (also of Spotaneous Cattle Combustion, later of Rickets, Rejects Revenge theatre co). More info req’d.

Spontaneous Cattle Combustion – band feat; David Wright (ex Ricky Spontane, later of Rickets, Rejects Revenge theatre co). More info req’d.

Sportsman – venue in mid-70s (more info req’d)

Spudgun – band feat; Wils (drms) (later of The Dry Retch). More info req’d

The Spurts – Ulverston punk band (1978-79), feat; Chris Hutchinson (voc,gtr), Mike Gaunt (drms), both later of Grown Up Strange. Band changed name to The Hormones. More info req’d

Squat Down – band formed in 1984 by Neil Buckley (ex Ho Ho Bacteria, Bneco), Paul Dutton (voc, gtr) and John O Halleron (bass) (ex Bneco). Rec single ‘Real Desire’ at Pete Wylie‘s studio.

SSS – (Short Sharp Shock) – thrash/crossover band (formed 2006) based in L’pool and Wirral, feat members of Grampus Eight and Walk The Plank. The line-up has changed over the years, but a consistent member is vocalist Foxy. Other members have included Mark Magill (bass), Dave Fergusson (drms), Peter Broom (gtr), Stu Taylor (gtr), Dave Archer (drms), and Phil Hartley (bass). Released an eponymous single (on Dead & Gone / Thrashgig 22.4.06), then 4 albums; ‘Short Sharp Shock’ (2006), ‘The Dividing Line’ (2008), ‘Problems To The Answer’ (06.06.2011) and ‘Limp. Gasp. Collapse.’ (10.11.2014). Band seemed to have ceased thereafter (YTMusic)

The Stairs – ‘out there’ 3-piece (formed 1990) who were a pivotal part of the resurgence of ’60s-influenced garage rock, R’n’B, and psychedelia in the UK, feat; Edgar Jones (voc,bass), Ged Lynn (gtr) and drummer Paul Maguire. Jason Otty, though often cited as a core figure, officially filled a manager/harmonicist role. Released the seminal single Weed Bus, which was briefly playlisted on BBC Radio 1 before being swiftly banned when the station realised its subject matter. Broke up shortly after Lynn’s departure in 1993, having struggled with disappointing album sales of ‘Mexican R’n’B’ (1992) despite critical acclaim Reformed in November 2015 and have played sporadically since. Their second album, reportedly to be titled ‘Who Is This Is’, was abandoned after the band’s initial split, but the demo material has since been exhumed and released on various compilations by local label Viper Records.(youtube)

Stamp Sisters – band feat; Paul Capper (gtr,voc) (now Amazing Kappa Band, ex Pete Wylie, Cat Scratch Fever, Candy Store Rock, Stamp Sisters and The Blimey Brothers). Active late 80s / early 90s

The Stands – Part of the crop of hip L’pool bands, getting bracketed with The Coral, The Bandits etc. The Stands have managed to raise their profile by being championed by Noel Gallagher, who describes them in reverential tones. Based around singer/songwriter Howie Payne (ex Magic Clock), and formed mid 2001. Played 1st gig at the now legendary Bandwagon Club Xmas01. The group on that night was a bit of a hotch potch of talent from other bands. Howie was joined on stage by his younger brother (and member of The Zutons) Sean (drms), Martin Campbell (bass), and Robbie (from the Hokum Clones) (gtr). During 2002 the group developed into its present line-up, Howie still steering the ship, with Luke Thompson (gtr), Dean Ravera (bass) and Steve Pilgrim (drms). With the rise in popularity of The Coral etc this brought some overdue attention to the L’pool scene which resulted in The Stands securing gigs up and down the country. During this period Howie was busy recording tracks for a future LP release, even though they didn’t have a record deal at this time. Noel Gallagher saw them at The Bandwagon a few times and offered them time in his own studio. No doubt the attentions of Noel encouraged record companies to take interest, which resulted in a deal with Echo Recs. 1st single ‘When This River Rolls Over You’ (Aug03). This followed with ‘I Need You’ (Oct03) both rel being written and prod by Payne. This rel was backed with a full national tour. During Nov03 in conjunction with the NME they rel a free CD ‘Two Track Sampler’ feat ‘Outside Your Door/The Love You Give’

State of Maine – band early 90s, feat; Jenny Hughes (voc,keys) (ex Crack The Ice, Vanilla Beserk, Whitehouse Puppies, Roadside Prophets) who says, ‘the band was fronted by the stunning looking Tanya Dransfield – we had a big lesbian following throughout Liverpool in the early nineties- although I am not gay – I was the mascot – the token straight woman!! Could be a bit intimidating at times I can tell you. We wore outrageous leather outfits, chaps and thigh boots – I played keys, rhythm and sang out front with Tanya – kind of double front.’

State Terror – hardcore punk band (2003) feat; Mikey (gtr), Mel (voc), Day (drms) (also of Blue Demon), Adam (bass) (later of Broadside). Orig drummer Martin went to see Placebo live & was sacked! Band became After The Massacre

Status Quid – B’head Quo tribute band feat; Diamond Dave (drms) (ex Engine, now Jalapenos), Charlie D (now Jalapenos) and sometimes Bob Young (of Status Quo)

Steal – alt-rock band (1993-95), feat; Maxine Dunn (voc) (ex Mahalia, later CS Drift), Chris Robinson (bass), John Robinson (gtr), Paul Piper (drms). Got took under the wing of Ronni O’Keefe (see Secluded Places), who produced all their demos. Played live a lot around L’pool, but nothing else emerged. Split up in 1995.

Stealer – Formed in Halewood in the early 70s by Mike Royden (gtr) (later The Warp Band, Dave Easter Band, Flex, Piranha Brothers, Dilly Boys, Bethan, Glory Box),  Dave Evans (voc) (later Rumours of Fleetwood Mac), Alan ‘Cozzy’ Cosgrove (drms) (later The Merseybeats, Rumours of Fleetwood Mac),  Tony Doyle (bass) (later Accelerators, Lawnmower, Adams Family, Flex, Piranha Brothers, Cat Scratch Fever, Perfectly Frank)

Stealing Sheep – Liverpool experimental pop/indie?electronic band (2010–present), feat; Rebecca Hawley (voc,keys), Emily Lansley (voc,gtr,bass), Luciana Mercer (voc,drms). Formed in 2010 in Liverpool, the trio are known for their imaginative blend of art?pop, psychedelic harmonies and electronic textures, drawing on influences from experimental electronic music to folk?inflected vocal craft while maintaining a distinctly modern pop sensibility. They debuted with early releases such as the The Mountain Dogs EP (14?Feb?2011) and I Am The Rain (2011), which were collected on Noah And The Paper Moon (2012) before issuing their first full?length studio album ‘Into The Diamond Sun’ in 2012 on Heavenly Recordings. Their sophomore album ‘Not Real’ arrived on 13?Apr?2015 and deepened their electronic and avant?pop explorations, followed by ‘Big Wows’ on 19?Apr?2019, further expanding their sonic palette. Subsequent projects include a collaboration with The Radiophonic Workshop on La Planète Sauvage (2021) and the release of ‘Wow Machine’ (24?Jun?2022) on Both Sides Records, with news of a self?released project ‘GLO (Girl Life Online)’ slated for 2025. Stealing Sheep have toured extensively, supported acts such as Alt?J and Postal Service, participated in art and film score collaborations, and developed multidisciplinary live shows rooted in their creative ethos. (website)

Stealth Sonic Orchestra – is the name Apollo 440 (specifically founding members Trevor, Howard Gray, and Noko) use for their ambient, cinematic, and often orchestral remix and production work (particularly of Manic Street Preachers). Apollo 440 also ran their own label, Stealth Sonic Recordings, which further blurred the lines and associated the “Stealth Sonic” name with their broader creative output and production quality.

Steppin’ Razor – band, formed Jan87, feat; John McGlone (voc) (also Ministry of Love II, Western Promise), Mark Parry (gtr) (ex Thunderboots, Ellery Bop, Western Promise, Ministry of Love II), Paul Parry (bass) (ex Thunderboots), John Leggett (drms) (later Lucy Show). By Sep87 all members expect McGlone had been replaced; Rob Boardman (gtr) (ex Clique), Nick Lavro (drms) (ex Clique), Tony Prescott (keys,voc) (ex Cook Da Books), Jay Caldwell (bass) (ex Western Promise, Ministry of Love). Released 7″ Latin Tears (Rough Trade Sep87) (youtube)

Sticky Fingers – rock band (formed 1999) in mould of AC/DC, Stones etc. Feat; Jim Cave (voc,gtr), Mike Devlin (bass), Col (drms). Play many gigs around L’pool, Wirral and N.Wales

Stiff Pig – band, 1979-82, feat; Peter Bowe (voc), Graham Pritchard (gtr), Paul Freeman (bass), Martin O’Hara (drms). Formed out the ashes of a Liverpool punk band, they were at the front of the Northern NWOBHM.  Played gigs in Liverpool, Stockport, Leeds, St Helens, Skelmersdale, Rochdale Manchester, Chester, Ellesmere Port, New Brighton with a regular spot at the Bierkeller and the Biker hang out The Empress Club New Brighton. Recorded 4 songs at Pink Studios (owned by Hambi and the Dance) Ullet Road L’pool.. Rat Race (track 1) of the demo was released on Sane 002, 1984 “It’s Unheard of” under the new band name of Kraken.

Stig Of The Dump – band feat; Jake Florek (gtr,voc,samples) (son of Jaki Florek), Ged Fox (trmpt) (also of Zen Baseballbat), and Si Hills (bass), aged 17, in a dirty squat in Runcorn. They re-located to Si’s hometown of Reading and created havoc… then moved to London where they were joined by Jake’s brother Joe (gtr,perc) who had returned from living in Japan; things got seriously experimental musically, they shortened the name to just STIG, and DJ Stig (Tony Toy) joined on decks (he DJ’d regularly at Inner City Sumo nights at The Masque). Half the band was in London, the other half in L’pool, and they play all over the UK and Europe. EP released on Loose (Aug03) ‘The Pissed As Art EP’ described as ‘absolutely stunningly fantastically fuckin mental’. Joined in 2005 by Bill Leach (ex Adam’s Family) on lapsteel and fancy posh bits of guitarwork. LP ‘Rum N Brass’ recorded for Loose, and was to be released on bigger label (did this happen?)

Stiletto Heels – see Stormtroopers

Stopouts – Wirral punk band (May78-Jun79) also performed under the name Stevie & the Stopouts in December 1978, feat; Steve Grace (voc,gtr) (ex Nasty Pop, later Return of The Toreador), Sue James (bass,voc) (later Dead Or Alive, Upsets) and John Jones (drms) (later Upsets). Had the honour of being the 1st single released on Skeleton Records ‘Strange Thoughts/Just For You And Me’ SKL-001 a pic sleeve single in Dec78. As with all artists on Skeleton they also appeared on the label comp ‘A Trip To The Dentist’ SKLLP-1 with ‘Just For You And Me’ (youtube)

Stormbringer – Wirral heavy rock band (c1984), feat; Craig McDonald (voc,gtr) (ex Sinner, later Glassback Switch, Havana Clue), Kevin Dixon (gtr), Alan Jones (bass), ? (drms). Played usual venues in the area.

Stormfield Records – Innocents Abroad‘s own label, released their LP ‘Quaker City’ (STORM 1, Apr86) and resurfaced along with the band in the 2020s

Stormtroopers – punk band formed Feb77 after listening to the Ramones 1st LP, feat; Mark Alman (voc), John “Bandage” England (bass), Mike Howarth (gtr), Johnny Mac (drms). Played Eric’s once and had to rename for the gig as Stiletto Heels as Roger Eagle thought the name was too fascist. The name Stormtroopers was actually a mishearing of “Shocktroopers” on the Ramones LP. Played a number of local gigs around L’pool, Widnes and Warrington and a gig at The Roxy in London. Split Dec77 when Mike had left to go to Uni and following a series of guitarists boredom set in. Their hand painted band van was the talk of L’pool. “Have you seen The Stormtroopers” splashed over the sides of an ex bread van.

Strange Band – short-lived precursor band in the Liverpool music scene around 1977, notable primarily for feeding members into the subsequent progressive/art rock band Next and later, the post-punk/new-wave band Afraid of Mice. feat; Geoff Kelly (bass) and Ronnie Stone (gtr), who both joined Next. Stone used to be known as Ronnie Wharton then.

Strangeland – punk band, formed Sep01, feat; Neil (drms), Bibby (bass) (both ex Ringworm), Ian Cropper (gtr). Jamie Mottram (bass) joins Aug02 & Bibby moves onto gtr. Split up Aug04, renamed themselves the Nymphs, failed, then reformed as Strangeland again Oct04

Streetpunk Drunks – band  (formed Jul07), feat; Seanie Sean (voc) (ex Proppa Unkonshuz, Kripppalz Wiv Kancer), Dave (drms), Karl (bass), Billy (gtr). Previous line up was Mark (drms), Libby (bass), Richie (gtr). ‘Alcohol Abuse’ (Debut CD/Album, released in 2013 on their own label, Special Brew Records), before this, they put out a 17 Track Demo (2009). (youtube)

Stress Records – ran by John Hawkins, the label was an early 1980s independent/DIY operation based in Liverpool, L6 (a postcode covering the Fairfield and Tuebrook areas).

Strife – heavy rock band (1969-78), feat; Jon Reid (voc,gtr), Gordon Rowley (bass) (later Nightwing), Paul H.Ellison (drms) who was replaced by David Williams (1977). Debut album ‘Rush’ (1975 on Chrysalis), featured a three-part title suite. It charted well in the Virgin LP charts, a major barometer for UK rock at the time. ‘Back To Thunder’ (Gull Recs 1978) was released after the band had been trapped in a contract with Chrysalis for a few years. Gull Records was also the original label for Judas Priest. Features Don Airey (later of Deep Purple, Rainbow) on keyboards. and although having a large following, the band never broke through. Band was formed by Ellison and pre-1974 line up incl; Peter Trotman (gtr), Peter Hobbs (bass), Graham Kin (keys), Paddy Breen (voc). (YTMusic)

Strikeout – Southport punk band (2003), feat; Darren (gtr,voc), Vicky (gtr), Pete (bass), Mat (drms). *There’s a Preston band (c2015) of same name – is this the same band?

Stun The Guards – formed late 78 by Paul Robinson (gtr), Mike Smart (keys) and Steve Hurley (bass) joined after many occasional drummers by Norman (Yam) Rowlands. Trimmed down to a trio in Apr81 when Mike Smart had parted company the band brought out ‘The Stun The Guards cassette album’ (Grooved Recs GRSC 1001). The many line up changes link the band to many other bands in an almost incestious way, the only constant being Paul and Steve. At the last count they think it was 16 line ups linking Stun The Guards to bands like Dramatis Personae, Afraid of Mice, Visual Aids, Jass Babies, Zale Out, Glass Topedoes, The Sex Gods, the list goes on… Personnel inc, Julie Coleclough (keys) (1979-83) (later Sensible Shoes), Steve Corrigan (drms) (c1980) (later Robbers Dog), Karla Ambrosius (voc) (left Feb82), Carl Broster (perc) (left Jul82), Steve Degrunck (drms) (later Twisted Nervez). Hurley, Robinson and Coleclough backed Phil Battle in 1982 as Phil Battle & The Sensible Shoes

The Substitutes – band (formed 1992), feat; Tommy Scott and Jamie Murphy. Murphy was a roadie for Tommy’s previous band The Australians, who split up just before an important gig, and formed The Substitutes. The name was shortlived before they became Space.

Sudden Impact – band (Jan85-Apr89), feat; Peter Jeffrey (keys), Paul Ainscough (drms) (later Second Vision), Sean Danher (voc), David Griffiths (bass), Mark Lewis (gtr). Appeared on TV’s New Faces show (1.10.88). Carl Bowry and Anita Solomons (b.voc) have sessioned with the band. Released single Maybe (May88). Paul has since worked with Sonique, Ultra Nate, Happy Clappers and Belinda Carlisle.

Suicide Stars – (1986) punk band, feat; Andy Carr (voc), Gof (gtr) (ex Shattered Dolls), Tudor (gtr) (ex Public Disgrace, Das Reiner, Dementia), Mike Poole (bass) (left Dec86), Stuart Gray (drms).

Sunday Jones – Huyton indie band (c2010), feat; Dean and Geoff Billingsley, with ‘special guests’ – most notable for having their songs placed in various US and Canadian film and television productions, including The One, Marine 3, and Forgetting The Girl (youtube)

Sunprobe – band (formed 1992), feat; Ste Elms (gtr,voc), Ray Jones (bass), Jamie Craine (drms) (ex Stein), Ste and Ray both ex-Bloody Picnic and Fevertree. Ray and Jamie both later joined Unwinding Hours, with Ray subsequently recording as MWV and Jamie joining The Ravens. Fused post-punk and Thirteenth Floor Elevators, following a decent review by Penny Kiley the band played both the Liverpool and London circuits along with a support slot with The God Machine. As well as cassette albums, the band recorded a track under the name Coloursound for the Kool Tone compilation ‘Mersey Killers’ with vocalist Jane Dicken. Went on hiatus after gig at Liverpool University in 1993, but reunited in 2009 to record a further track, ‘Cartesian Jetstream’ for Kool Tone, this time on compilation ‘Extracts from the Ether’. The band have never actually called it a day, but continued to jam sporadically (youtube)

Supercharge – early 70s band feat; Albie Donnelly (sax), Andy Parker (sax), Tony Windas (gtr), Dave Dover (blues harp) (all later of Herbie Pops Out), Alan Peters (voc) (ex Almost Blues, later Lawnmower, Opposition, 29th & Dearborn, Love Ponies). Formed by Albie Donnelly (sax) & Dave Irving (drms). See full biog

Superdude – band of late 90s feat; Karl Bader-Bailey (bass) (ex Jules Verne, Playhouse, Bulah Wig, Lumiesence, Acacia Gum). Never got past rehearsal stage. Karl also ran Kooltone label and edited King Prawn zine.

Super Fast Girlie Show – (pic above with Neil Crud – not in the band!) Merseyside band, known for their distinctive, low-frequency, two-bass-heavy sound, which critics have described as a fusion of doom metal and punk rock, or “Part Sabbath part Sex Pistols.” feat; Pasha Coxhill (bass,voc), Phil Hartley (bass,voc) (see also Space, The Drellas, The Ponderosa Glee Boys) and Allan Gonzo Jones (drms). Released a 7″ vinyl album ‘All Hooves And Cucumber’ (2012), LP ‘Don’t Go Down Gentle’ (07.08.15 – both on Antipop review). Pasha also runs a bike repair shop in the city  (YTMusic)

Supergiant – band that formed out of The Marbles (c1998) and eventually became Mojave Collective. Feat; Mark Pountney (voc,gtr), Tommy Clarke (gtr), Nat Veyrat (bass), Carl Phillips (drms).

Superior Beings – new romantic band of early 80s. Feat; Joe Wall (voc), Dave Poole, Alan Lynch and Gerard Ryan

Superstride – band (1976-77), feat; Tony Bolland (drms), Robbie Pollard (gtr,voc), Joey Brown (voc), Ricky Brown (voc) and Dave Thomas (bass). Band noted for having groupies! Played the Sportsman venue. After Tony left they appeared on New Faces (a 70’s TV talent show). Tony was also in Angel, The Mess, Ocean Drive and several other bands

Surge – Huyton punk band (formed 1998), feat; Aaron Boland (bass,voc), Danny Glen (gtr), Joe o’Hare (drms). Also previously feat Mark Hughes (gtr), James Mann (gtr) who have since left or been sacked. Supported bands like Trilby, B-Movie Heroes, The Suffrajets, Thirteen 13, and Kinesis. Split Sep04

Surreal Estate – band (1984-87) feat; Bobby Carr (gtr) (ex Those Naughty Lumps, Tontrix, Moderates), John Potter (voc,gtr), Rob Eagle (gtr), Anthony Wilding (bass), Peter Higgins (keys), Alan McLaughlin (drms). Debut 12″ Midas Touch (Probe Jun85) feat; Bobby & John with sessionists Marjie Mayers (voc), Will Sergeant (gtr) and Les Pattinson (drms) (both of Bunnymen). Then full line up released Curtain Call (Letharge 1986). (youtube)

Surreal Madrid – Big beat/breakbeat project, formed 1997, feat; Colin Owens, Ginger Prince (Mark Davies) (drms), Lucky Strike (Dave White) (DJ), have also feat along the way Morph – Marc Jones – Aarron – Ian Sillet – Sam Rankin – Jo Steele – Jason Jones – Craig Pickles – Zeke Stenelli – Ben Owens & John Havelock Noore. The band had another project called Two Robs and members were also in a university covers outfit and one called He’s Dead Jim. Released a single Girls Of The Nite (1999) which was playlisted on Radio One & the band played the big events of the summer. Toured after releasing Freaky People single. Then We’re Going To Vegas, Baby (Oct00) followed by the LP ‘No More Boom Boom.’ Also released Maybe on Bolshoi Recs (Nov01). (youtube)

Surreptitious Stanley – punk band (pre-1992) feat members who went onto form Crocodile God

Suspect Device – 3-piece punk band of early 80s, influnced by SLF (no shit!!). More info req’d

Suspect Greenhouse – band (from Sefton?) 1982, feat; Alan Topping (voc,keys), Steve Swinnerton (gtr,voc) (ex Frets, Harmonics, Fourmers, Forgotten Image, Between The Lines), Ian Smith (bass) (ex Atomic Warlords, Anon, Wargame, Skydog, Forgotten Image, later Between The Lines), Mick Clarke (drms) (ex Frets etc, later Western Promise, Second To None, Shell Collectors, Jenny Lind, Fallen People).

Swampstompers – St Helens rock-blues band (formed early 80s and as of 2025, still going strong!). Featuring; Barry ‘Baz’ Dooley (gtr), Eric ‘Bus Pass’ Burke (voc). Have supported the likes of Dr. Feelgood, Nine Below Zero, and Chicken Shack. And played many festivals, including the Wickerman. Also played live sets on BBC Radio Merseyside. Released self-titled album in 2021 (youtube)

Swan Records – label run by Francis Craddock (of Orchard), released the band’s 7″ A Secret (CYGNET001, Apr85). Craddock is best known in UK music industry circles as a significant early figure in independent distribution and a key part of the Liverpool music scene (like his father, Tony Craddock).

Swim Naked – band (1984), feat; Neil Carr (voc,gtr,keys) (later of Jenny Lind), Andy Ford (bass) (later Decemberists, Hellfire Sermons), Adam Marshall (drms) (Where’s The Beach, Elliptical Trampolines, Oooze), Mick Armitadge (gtr), Clare Millington (voc), Chent Goss (keys). Played gigs at Left Bank, Mathew Street, Liverpool and described by one member as ranging from “violent jams based on the Velvets, to pop or folky things.”

Swinging Apple – club that ran 77/78 and was thought to be for those not cool enough for Eric’s. it was the top floor of a place in Seel St, of the 3 levels, the bottom two were gay bars/clubs (Samantha’s Club and the Bar Royal), it did eventually turn into the biker club “Nightriders”. In summer of 1977 when bands played, between sets they would go to cool off on the back stairs, some of the staff and regulars from the 2 bars below soon found those, young sweaty boys, they would furnish them with drinks, obviously hoping to score! Club got a mention in Julian Cope‘s ‘Head On’ book. Margi Clarke‘s brother, Frank Clarke (Letter to Brezhnev etc) was orig manager. The DJ was Peter Thomas (Beyond The Implode backing vocalist). Eddie Smith says; ‘I remember bringing along a bag of punk/new wave records on the opening night because while Peter had some good punk stuff, he didn’t have enough to spread over the whole night. Unfortunately, because the new fangled pogo dancing caused the floor to bounce, a weight had to be put on the record deck playing arm to stop the needle from jumping. This, in turn, scarred some top-level vinyl with horrible scratches.The Liverpool punk in-crowd were all there. I remember Pete Burns laying on the floor the whole night, probably getting off on the pogo vibrations’. On New Years Eve, a Manchester band called Warsaw played their last gig under that name at the venue before changing it to Joy Division. The Apple’s days were numbered when it became a bit of a battleground for punk versus teddy boy warfare and tended to be a place were the average fun-seeker avoided. An image-change as the Fat Club (complete with murals of hamburgers, chips, ice cream etc on the walls) didn’t really take off and the place was closed.

The Switch – Wirral rock band (1988-92), feat; Craig McDonald (voc,gtr) (ex Sinner, Stormbringer, later Glassback, Havana Clue), Dave Molly (bass) (later Glassback), Andrew ‘Eddi’ Edwards (drms). Played many gigs, often as support to local rockers Engine. Also supported Dumpys Rusty Nuts and UFO. Mainly playing to a Biker audience. Made a few recordings, Someone Else, Sex For Sale, Night Ride.

Syam – metal band (c1984). More info req’d

Synchronicity – Martin Byrne (bass) (ex Martin Malone, Eskimo Chains, Deliverance, Mixies Men, Insanity Beach, Synchronicity, Fair Warning), Steve Lowe (bass,voc – later gtr), Nick Lauro (drms) (ex Graphic Defeat, Splinter Group, Clique, Mania, Steppin’ Razor MkII, Western Promise, Prescotts, Eskimo Chains), Rob Boardman (gtr) (ex Personal Column, Jass Babies, Visual Aids, Clique, Mania, Steppin’ Razor MkII)

The System  – venue in Temple Street, L’Pool. Operated in 1983/85; Steve Procter was the DJ who seemed entirely at odds with his audience, he always played ‘poppier’ tunes. Various groups did PA’s at the venue, incl Vicious Pink Phenomenon among others in Sep84. Was this the venue that Club Zoo had been based in years before? Procter is most famously associated with being one of the original DJs, alongside Frank Cookson, at The State (1982-1989), another legendary Liverpool club of the 80s. He left the Liverpool scene around 1985 or 1986 to take up a job in A&R in London.

Systems – band feat; John ‘Strange’ Hawkins (voc,bass) (ex Activity Minimal later This Island Earth), Kevin Chapman (gtr), Tony Elson (drms) (later Visual Aids, Precautions, Young Lions, Islands of Dance), Mike Reed (keys). Also later feat; Mike Nelson (sax) (ex Neutral Cover Ups, later Lawnmower), Jeremy Kelly (gtr) (ex Psycamesh, later of Wild Swans, Care, Lotus Eaters), Kevin Brown (keys) (later This Island Earth). Released single on Open Eye ‘Total Recall/Still Outside’ OE-006 in (Oct81). Prev released ‘Scenery/Private Lives’ on Stress Records STRESS- 001 (Aug80). Chapman was soon replaced by Andy Warren (gtr) (ex Change of Image, later Islands of Dance) (youtube)