Bastard, The Damned, The Lords Of The New Church & More: The Authorised Biography Of Brian James

This book presents the life and career of one of music’s most pioneering, and far too often under-appreciated, guitarists and songwriters, Brian James. From his days as a youngster, cutting his teeth in blues and rock ‘n’ roll cover bands, Brian created the uncompromising Bastard. Playing briefly with London SS, he then formed the Damned. It was with the Damned that he wrote the UK’s first ever punk single, ‘New Rose’. What followed was the first ever UK punk album, ‘Damned Damned Damned’. He went on to form the “transmagical” Tanz Der Youth, before being handpicked by Iggy Pop to join his live touring band. With the enigmatic Stiv Bators, he created the Lords of the New Church and released three studio albums. The book also details his other bands, the Hellions, Brian James Brains and the Brian James Gang, in addition to a slew of solo projects.Rat Scabies (the Damned), “It wasn’t even a choice with Brian, this was just how he was. There was no wearing different clothes during the day and then different clothes when you went out. Brian’s thing was that he wanted to look good all the time, not just putting it on but much more, “This is me; this is what I am and that’s how the world is going to see it.””Dave Treganna (the Lords of the New Church), “He is non-compromising, “This is me, this is what you get. This is my guitar, these are my songs. This is how I do it. If you don’t like it, fuck off.” And I like that attitude.”Stewart Copeland (the Police), “The Damned were one of the most kick-ass of all the punk groups. They really made an impact; Rat Scabies blasting away at those drums, pushing the group forward and Brian just had all the right chords, and of course the Captain and Dave.”Alan Clayton (the Dirty Strangers), “I just got on really well with Brian, just struck up a friendship that has lasted for years and years. When he’s not playing onstage Brian is just the same as when he is, just not with his guitar in his hands and playing rock ‘n’ roll.”Graham Humphreys (artist and illustrator), “The first time I met Brian I was in awe and rather frightened! I knew his history with the Damned and expected a typical rock casualty with a snotty and arrogant attitude. Of course, nothing could have been further from the truth. The first thing Brian said to me was how much he loved my ‘Evil Dead’ artwork, he then told me his favourite film was ‘The Texas Chainsaw Massacre’ - I warmed to him immediately.”Adam Becvare (the Lust Killers, the Lords of the new Church), “Musically, he’s a pioneer. A maverick. He likes to keep it honest and just go for it. He taught me that “magic happens in the mistakes.” He needs to keep things fresh to stay inspired and he’s a slave to the sonic. As a songwriter he’s equally always honest and just loves a good D bridge.” Read more