The Psychos formed back in '79 while the original members were still at school. It wasn't until '81 when they left the rehearsal room and started gigging. After an early exit by the guitarist, they settled on the line up that went in to record a 4 track demo tape, Chiz (Shakespeare), Mick Shakespeare, Paul Riley and Neil Hawkes. The self titled demo tape had the songs, 'Not Wanted', 'Get The Band Off The Stage', 'Kill The Bill' and 'The Thatcher'. Released on their own label, Brain Splat Records, the band sold over 500 copies at gigs and in local records shops.
The Psychos had 'The Thatcher' and 'Not Wanted'released on the Pax Records compilation album, 'Punk's dead? Nah, mate, the smell's just summink in yer underpants' in 1982.
Not too long after, the band split, without releasing any more material. Chiz and Mick went on to form No Dead Meat with John Hall and Jez Bateman. Creating their own promotion agency, Noise Aint Dead, they played with bands like UK Subs, Disorder and Peter and The Test Tube Babies. They recorded a 14 track demo, but eventually split due to the lack of interest in the punk scene for the lesser known bands.
Now, after many years of being harrassed (by Pete mainly), the Psychos have reformed. Chiz and Mick have been joined by Luke and Pete who they played with in Riot Squad, and Rich who hasn't hit a drum in anger in over 20 years ('cos he's finally found a band worth playing in - probably). Keeping their same attitude towards punk music, the Psychos have expanded their set list with songs from the Dead Meat demo as well as fresh new material.
The band is rehearsing frantically in preparation for their big return to the gig scene at this years 'Rebellion' festival in Blackpool.
unfortunately we ain't got the money to come to venice because we are now working on the money for birmingham, though we would be really glad to see you at the fest cause our part is going to be for you!!!!
we are planning to play to london on friday the day before the gig in brum.. if we arrange would you play with us as well?
No problem guys i loved both tracks you had on the Pax comp'Punk's dead? Nah, mate, the smell's just summink in yer underpants' Glad your back together guys
