The Stiffs

The Stiffs

The Stiffs are a UK punk band from Blackburn, active from 1977 to the present. They begin as a mod, punk and power pop group in the late 1970s and early 1980s, and their style is initially firmly rooted in punk before moving through related pop-oriented forms such as new wave, pop punk, pop rock, post-punk and power pop.

Origin and early activity

Formed in Blackburn, Lancashire, The Stiffs start gigging in 1977. They secure a recording contract in 1980. The band’s early material includes a strong punk edge, alongside melodic hooks and singalong choruses that remain a key part of their sound.

Recordings and sessions

Among the tracks associated with the band are Crazy Mixed-Up Emotion, from 1981, along with Hook In Your Heart and Standing Ovation, both recorded for a BBC John Peel session. Those session recordings feature BBC producer Dale Griffin, formerly the drummer with Mott The Hoople, playing drums after the band’s own drummer is unable to attend. Another later track, In Your World, appears after the band is revived in 1985.

Name changes and later years

The Stiffs later change their name to Idol Rich, but the new name does not lead to the hoped-for success. They then use the name Vicious Rumours, before The Stiffs return again in 1985. The band finally stops in 1988.

Style and release context

The Stiffs are associated with punk and closely related styles, including power pop and pop punk. They release material on the label Dork.

Membership

Members associated with the group include Phil Hendriks, Ian Barnes, Tommy O'Kane, John McVittie, John 'Juice' Mayor, Nick Alderson, Mark Hurlbut, John Andrew Wade, Mark Coleridge, Steve Fielding, Jimmy Devlin and Robin Fidler.