Emptifish

Emptifish is a group from Portsmouth, United Kingdom, active from 1983 to the present. The band is associated with psychobilly and surf, and its early sound is described as a hybrid of surf, punk and early Beatles influences. It builds a strong local following on the south coast, especially in and around Portsmouth, before attracting attention further afield.

History

The group forms in 1983 and plays a large number of shows in a short period, with more than 200 gigs between 1983 and 1987. Its performances draw unusually large crowds for the size of the venues, and its live reputation becomes linked to scenes of disorder and conflict around shows, even though the band itself is not described as taking part in the violence. This notoriety contributes to bans from venues and difficulty securing bookings.

After being blocked from playing under its own name, the band also performs under the aliases The Manta Rays and The Ambassadors. It later splits and the members go their separate ways, travelling and pursuing other ambitions. The group later reforms for a one-off performance on an old Napoleonic fort in the English Channel.

Releases and songs

Emptifish writes and performs around 70 original songs. It releases two EPs in limited quantities on Crystal Records, and these recordings become rare. The band is also heard on the late John Peel's night-time show.

Live reputation

The band's appeal rests heavily on its live presence and the response it provokes. Audiences become notably large and enthusiastic, with the group developing a reputation for charisma, charm and energetic stage movement. That live following helps to make Emptifish a notable name on the south coast during the 1980s.