Anti-Establishment

Anti-Establishment

Anti-Establishment are a punk group from London, United Kingdom, formed in 1978. The band goes through several line-ups before settling on the best-known configuration, with Gavin Gritton on vocals, Nick Freeston on drums, Haggis on lead guitar and Kevin Read on bass. The listed members also include Colin Little.

Early activity

The group’s first gig takes place in 1979. In their early years they play around 25 shows in total, and the band name becomes associated with the Oi!/punk scene.

Recordings

The first single is 1980's / Mechanical Man, produced by The Damned drummer Rat Scabies and released on the Charnel House label. The second single is Future Girl / No Trust, also produced by Rat Scabies and issued on Glass Records. It is promoted with a tour supporting The Exploited. The final single is a double A-side, Anti-men and Misunderstood, again produced by Rat Scabies.

Line-up changes and later activity

After Haggis leaves, Gary Dawson joins on guitar while Haggis spends time building up his garage business. The band reforms in 2013 and plays the Rebellion Punk Festival.

Compilation

Captain Oi! Records compiles the group’s work in 1997, with liner notes that place the name Anti-Establishment in high regard among the Oi!/punk fraternity.