The Blowmen, consisting of guitarist Joe Canterbury, bassist Robert Meadows and drummer Phil York, were determined to carry the torch of punk rock through the mid-80s. Playing underground gigs in Yorkshire soon grew tiresome, and The Blowmen sought an opportunity to tour with their greatest influence: Johnny Cash. Attempting to meet him at a Louisiana State Fair in the summer of 1984, they discovered that Cash would not be in attendance. Frantic event planners needed a replacement, and The Blowmen, sensing opportunity, stepped up to play. This set isthe only known recording of their music, exemplifying a rare and unique style and attitude of punk that pierces even the soul of a contemporary listener. The same evening of the performance, Meadows and Canterbury died of a massive heroin overdose.
by punkrockfan July 29, 2012