Angelic Upstarts

Angelic Upstarts

Angelic Upstarts are a punk rock and oi band from South Shields, United Kingdom. Formed in 1977, they remain active and are known for combining punk music with a socialist and working-class outlook. The group is associated with the anti-fascist skinhead subculture, and their influence extends to later bands including Strawman, Red London and the Redskins.

Early line-up and membership

The original line-up consists of Mensi on vocals, Mond on guitar, Steve Forsten on bass and Decca Wade on drums. Brian Hayes later joins as second guitarist, then becomes the only guitarist after Mond leaves. Over the years the band reforms and splits several times, with a changing cast of members that includes Ronnie Wooden, Glyn Warren, Tony Feedback, Ronnie Rocker and Max Splodge, who also plays drums for a period. Other drummers include Sticks, who later joins The Cockney Rejects, Paul Thompson of Roxy Music and Chris White. Decca Wade returns for a few years before leaving again.

Recordings and recognition

Their debut single, The Murder Of Liddle Towers, later appears in Mojo magazine’s list of the best punk rock singles of all time. This early release helps establish the band’s reputation within British punk.

Later history

Former guitarist Tony Van Frater dies in October 2015, followed two days later by Dickie Hammond. Former member Tony Morrison dies in February 2021 after contracting COVID-19. Thomas Mensforth dies in December 2021 after also being infected with COVID-19.