The March Violets Big Soul Kiss: The BBC Recordings (Violet)

Release Date: 08/06/2021
Format: 2 X LP
Label: Jungle Records
Release type: Violet Double Vinyl LP Pressing

THE MARCH VIOLETS came out of Leeds in the early 80’s, initially as label-mates mates of Sisters of Mercy. Releasing six singles, they were a constant presence at the heights of the UK indie charts. They never got around to recording an album – their only long-players, both in the UK and USA, were singles compilations. Eventually they signed to a major and were groomed for a USA breakthrough, but found they were asked to make too many compromises. Thankfully, their career was well-documented by the BBC recording six sessions – three for John Peel, and one each with Kid Jensen, Janice Long and Richard Skinner. The sessions chronicle their development from 1982 to 1986 with lead singers Simon Denbigh, Rosie Garland and Cleo Murray, backed by bassist Lawrence Elliot and guitarist Tom Ashton. It includes nine unreleased songs and alternate versions of their indie hits in a total of 23 tracks. Here is the unheard history of The March Violets.

– Disc 1 –
1 Radiant Boys
2 Steam
3 1 2 I Love You
4 Grooving in Green
5 Crow Baby
6 The Undertow. 1
7 Strange Head
8 Slow Drip Lizard
9 Walk Into the Sun
10 Deep
11 Kill the Delight. Side Three:
– Disc 2 –
1 Big Soul Kiss
2 Lights Go Out
3 Love Hit
4 Don’t Take It Lightly
5 Electric Shades
6 The Face of the Dragonfly
7 Snake Dance
8 Deep
9 High Times
10 Close to the Heart
11 South Country
12 Avalanche of Love. Broadcast By the BBC Between 1982 – 1986