The Blow Monkeys, The Christians

The Blow Monkeys epitomised the glamour of mid-80s pop. Frontman Robert Howard (aka Dr. Robert), was charismatic, camera-friendly and clever. While quite clearly Robert’s band, the Blow Monkeys were also gifted three immensely talented musicians in bassist Mick Anker, saxophonist Neville Henry and drummer Tony Kiley. Their debut, 1984’s ‘Limping For A Generation’ landed in 1984, followed by ‘Forbidden Fruit’. ‘Animal Magic’ in 1986 was the breakthrough, courtesy of ‘Digging Your Scene’ which delivered success both sides of the Atlantic, and remains their calling card. The next album ‘She Was Only a Grocer's Daughter’, included ‘It Doesn't Have To Be This Way’, their biggest-ever UK hit. There followed more success, and innovation, before the band split around 1990 having enjoyed years touring the world, and creating five remarkable albums. For nearly two decades, the band was put on ice… though Robert began a truly productive solo career. Since reforming in 2008, The Blow Monkeys have released nine albums and played hundreds of concerts. And now in 2025 comes a sparkling new album ‘Birdsong” on Alan McGee’s ‘Creation Youth’ Label. Still featuring the full original line-up, bar Crispin Taylor from Galliano who joined  on drums in 2016, these Monkeys continue to evolve.