The Pukes

The Pukes

The Pukes are a UK ukulele punk band from Norwich. The group traces its origins to Nelson in 1997, when Mike Puke begins recording solo material as Puke after playing in the Nelson punk band Dead Centre. In that early form, he performs live with guitar, vocals and a drum machine, with additional vocals from Kez Bizarre and bass from Wayne under the name Mike Puke And The Revolting Peasants.

Formation and early line-ups

In 2001, Mike Puke and Kez move to Dunedin and start performing as Puke And The High Chords. At that stage, the act uses a drum machine, has no bass player at first, and includes Gaylene on additional vocals. After a few gigs, Garth joins on bass and the name changes to The Pukes, which becomes the group’s regular title. Gaylene later leaves, and Sam joins on drums after the band advertises for a drummer.

Activity and personnel

The Pukes perform in a flexible live format, ranging from Mike Puke playing solo with guitar and drum machine to full-band appearances and other combinations depending on who is available. The group’s lineup changes over time, with Garth later leaving, Dan joining briefly on bass, Alice adding vocals for a period, Liam later taking over bass duties, and Sam eventually moving out of town while not formally quitting. The verified membership list for the group includes Dee Dee, Jenny Gallagher, Melissa Jo Heathcote, Ewa Kapica, Lindsay Legover, Chris Lloyd, Andrea Puke, Debs Puke, Esme Puke, Paul Redfern, Ria Rocca, Coco Puke Sachiko, Lorna Tiefholz, Gareth Waltrip, Kate Wilkinson and Clara Wiseman.

Style and songs

The band’s music is described as stripped-down, fast punk with a focus on energy. Its songs cover subjects ranging from sick humour to politics. The band also draws on material from Mike Puke’s solo albums and songs from the Dead Centre period.