X-Ray Spex: Poly-Styrene (vocals); Jak Airport (guitar); Rudi Thomson (saxophone); Paul Dean (bass); BP Hurding (drums). X-Ray Spex is notable for a number of reasons. Chiefly, it was one of the very few bands UK punk bands with female members. One of the group's distinguishing characteristics is their decidedly un-punk use of saxophones. Most importantly, though, X-Ray Spex's first effort is actually a good record! Fronted by Marion Elliot, who called herself Poly Styrene in those days, Spex managed to capture something that many punk rock bands missed. They always sounded like they were having a really great time. Many of the lyrics deal with appearance and perception ("Identity," "I Can't Do Anything," "I A ClichT"), and most are quite funny, sung in Elliot's proudly unschooled, nasal voice. The music is based on standard-issue buzzing punk guitar and propulsive drumming but also features Rudi Thompson's clever, aggressive sax. Though the CD mysteriously re-sequences the track listing of the original vinyl, it more than compensates by adding four bonus songs-including both sides of the band's brilliant debut single, "Oh Bondage, Up Yours!" This album defines one glorious moment in a musical revolution and is required listening for anyone with an interest in punk.

• Format: Vinyl
• Label: Real Gone Music/Capitol
• Genre: Rock

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