Interview
Please give a brief history of the band, including current line up.
Merceyless Kop were formed in 1997. They are based in
Nottingham. Alan and Kev (Doctor), split from the Fork Hunts in 1995 and
formed a band called Full Throttle, which did not last very long due to fall
outs with the other members. Alan and Kev advertised for musicians, they
had many replies, but most people didn't seen to be able to play. Eventually,
they came across Mark (Riff), who used to be with Angle Dust, and Astrix
who used to be with Apocalypse Babies. They headlined a few successful gigs
and supported some well known bands such as Blanks77, UK Subs etc. At the
end of 1998 (December) the band totally split up. Mark (Riff) messed the
band about so much, they didn't know what was happening. Mark (Riff) left
to concentrated on his computer business. Astrix wanted to continue playing
for Mercyless Kop, but we lost the practice room, we lost the PA system and
couldn't find a guitarist. The last we heard is Astrix is back with Apocalypse
Babies, and they are doing well, which is good news (they are a good band).
Eventually Alan and Kev came across Adi (guitar) and Chris (bass). They have
fitted in well, and have written some good material. Mercyless Kop are now
putting there name about again.
Discography.
Something I said (6 track demo) early January 1997 now
deleted
Suspect Devise (4 track demo) March 1997 now deleted
Punk For Pussies (number 2) compilation featuring 'No Way' still available
Buzzbomb CD 3 tracks (on the Stuff Label) still available
Fuck the North South Divide CD compilation featuring 'ACAB' still available
Has any band member played in other bands, if so what?
Yes. Alan played in Anabolic Sterroids in late 1977, but
had no success, just playing local gigs. Alan joined Injustice in 1979, who
had lots of interest and even got close to signing a deal with MCA Records.
But drugs, alcohol and women split the band up. Alan joined Vacant Look in
1981 who were complete crap. Alan formed the Fork Hunts in 1994. Kev joined
the Fork Hunts in 1994. Until now, Adi and Chris have only jammed with other
local bands.
Describe your sound.
Wank! No seriously, Merceless Kop try to keep their songs
loud, powerful, but with catchy choruses. They are very influenced by the
1977 era with a hint of NOFX.
If you could see any band play live, either of the past or
present, who would it be?
Slaughter and The Dogs
What is the favourite song (and what band is it by) of each
member of the band?
Kill (Albertoylostriosparanoias) - Alan
Dead Cities (Exploited) - Kev (Doctor
Silly Thing (Sex Pistols) - Chris
Pig Dog Killer (Wern't) - Adi
What is the Punk/Oi scene like in your area?
In Nottingham it is getting better, but Skate punk or
surf is massive. The thing is nowadays it is difficult to determine who's
punk and who's not, because they all wear baggy jeans, baggy shirts and baseball
caps, where in 1977 they had kilts, bondage, safety pins, coloured hair etc
etc and stood out from the crowd.
If you could be any age again, what would it be and why?
Kev: It doesn't really bother me, I'm a today person
Alan: 18, 'cos I'm an old tosser now.
Chris is young and loves his age.
Adi: 18, so I can start again.
Plans, gigs and releases planned for 99.
17th June Rigger, Newcastle Under Lyme
25th June Victoria Inn, Derby supporting 999
No other dates yet! We are hoping to get a record deal soon, but nothing as
yet!
Any final comments?
Cheers for the interview. Thanks for supporting the punk
scene. Our outlook is 'Born a punk, die a punk', a big fuck off to our police
force - pc Severn is a cunt. Merchandise, such as t-shirts (£3.80 + 40p p&p)
and Buzzbomb CD (£2.50 + 40p p&p) available from the below address. Cheques
made to A Allsop.
12 Hilltop View
Sutton in Ashfield
Nottinghamshire
ENGLAND
NG17 1LP
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