Strate Jacket - You're A Hit

This time you need to leave a comment and thank Stuart Blackaller for responding to the ASFM Request 3 and sharing this debut and only single from "Strate Jacket".

Strate Jacket were a four piece from Southampton led by brothers Terry (vocals) and Gordon (guitar) O'Brien. There was also Martin James (Bass) but unfortunately no name for drums (anyone). They formed in 1977 and lasted till 1981, although it should be noted in 1980 they renamed the band to "The Captains".

So what do you get? Two tracks, the a-side "You're A Hit" is the stand-out track and this one has really grown on me, first play I wasn't to sure. Strate Jacket definitely sound more accomplished, musically and vocally, than many of the other punk bands from the late 70's.

Band: Strate Jacket
Label: Wessex
Year: 1980
Tracks:
1. You're A Hit
2. Too Soon, Too Young

Ripped from Stuart's glorious scratched vinyl.

If you like this then I'm afraid there's nothing else that was officially released. There are some demo's around, but according to Stuart the recordings are a little rough. But I'm sure if you leave a comment he would be happy to share.

Strate Jacket - Demo's

So here it is five demo recordings from Strate Jacket. Thanks again to Stuart Blackaller for donating these. He did warn everyone that these were very rough recordings and they are, but apart from their single there appears to be nothing else out that documented their music.

So if you used to go and see Strate Jacket this will help rekindle those memories, and if you wanted to hear more after their single, here's your chance.

My fave is their cover of Fireball XL5 (now you know why there is a strange picture on this posting, I used to think Robert The Robot was so cool), most probably because I used to watch it as a kid. A lot of bands covered this song over the years but this is one of the earliest I am aware off. Anyone know anyone who covered this earlier than Strate Jacket?

So have a listen, and let Stuart know what you think.

Band: Strate Jacket
Year: 1979?
Tracks:
1. Talking About London
2. Out Of Control
3. Too Soon, Too Young
4. New Kid
5. Fireball Xl5

Ripped from glorious mono handheld hissing tape.

Strate Jacket Rehearsals

I've been so busy lately I've had no time to post or even visit my fave blogs, so it's a fitting return to offer the next two classic posts.

You need to leave your thanks to Michael Jennings for sharing these long lost (over 30 years ago now) rehearsal and demo recordings from Strate Jacket.

First up is the rehearsal held in French Street, Southampton.

Using Michael's own words:

"The rehearsal occurred one afternoon and the band essentially went through their set twice. Terry O'brien vocal Gordon O'brien guitar Nick Petford Bass John Russell Drums Quite a few friends of the band were there one of whom I remember was called Scotty"

Michael was a roadie of sorts for Strate Jacket in their early years and he recorded this tape. The recording is just what you expect rough and raw and gloriously punk (Michael's words again), but you can still here how good they were and it's a shame some of these never made it to the studio. My personal favourite is Punk Bashin at 1:58 long and the excellent chorus:

"Punk bashing, I'm smashing, In the summer of love"

So leave a comment and thank Michael for sharing another part of the punk history jigsaw.

Band: Strate Jacket
Year: 1978-79?
Album: Strate Jacket Rehearsals
1. Stop press
2. City Life
3. Punk Bashin
4. I'll Get Even One Day
5. Talkin About London
6. Stop Press
7. Punk Bashin
8. I'll Get Even One Day
9. Cash in Boys
10. Out In The Street
11. Boredom City

Ripped from Michael's glorious hissing tape (see comment for links)

If you like this you still here their classic debut single here, and a great rough and ready demo here.
Some of these posts created great comments with many people sharing their memories. Also check out the comment from Michael Jennings and the link where the bass guitarist is now a Professor. Was he the first punk band member to become a Professor?