Criminally overlooked Mancunians' indie chart-topping 1981 debut.

Formed by a number of escapees from the original Fall line-up, Blue Orchids epitomise an overlooked strain of intelligent, turn of the '80s guitar rock that ought to chime with fans of grainier latter-day garage combos. Like the equally forgotten Comsat Angels, they forged a yearning counterpoint to post-punk austerity and in leader Martin Bramah possessed a songwriter of singular authority. Highlights like the infectious Sun Connection or A Year With No Head witness a band reaching far beyond their DIY punk roots towards Tom Verlaine-esque lyricism. Additional tracks include their classic Work single and a rare 1981 Martin Hannett-produced All Tomorrow's Parties with Nico, all of it essential British kit.

David Sheppard

Q Magazine