Testimonials

Undead Guitars Rise From Ashes of Red Guitars

“Rising majestically like a phoenix from the ashes of the sadly defunct Red Guitars, ‘Undead Guitars’.
The core and the real heart of the band return with new music to treat us all” Captain Bluesky September 2025

“I like it. In fact I love it, this is ace. It’s much better now it really is! You guys have been made stronger and more passionate and determined. Sending loads of love from us Libertines 🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤🖤 “Andy and The Libertines, Instagram September 2025

Undead Guitars – Jake Angel Good Technology Cowboy Mix “To mark the 40th anniversary of Red Guitars’ debut single Good Technology, founding member Lou Duffy-Howard collaborated with Nashville-based producer Jake Angel on a radical rework dubbed the Cowboy Mix. Released under the Undead Guitars banner, the remix fuses rattlesnake slide guitar, fretless bass, and country hip-hop beats with distorted call-and-response vocals. The original master tape was baked and digitised, allowing access to the stems. Lou restructured the vocal phrasing into a question–answer format, added new bass lines, and panned the responses for spatial effect. The accompanying video features surreal western imagery, including a bull moving in sync with the guitar solo. This mix stands apart from the official extended remix, offering a Dust Bowl-inflected reinterpretation of Red Guitars’ iconic critique of consumer tech. A new single is due soon.” Bob Osborne, Different Noises 115 radio show

“Former Red Guitars fans won’t be disappointed as Blazing Zombies is, as you’d expect, a perfectly-crafted slice of guitar-driven rock, with intelligent, thought-provoking lyrics. Aren’t we all at risk, it seems to suggest, of becoming, metaphorically speaking, the Blazing Zombies of the title? While it’s all good end-of-October fun, the video is really rather terrifying (with band members and audience dressed in Halloween costumes and … gamely stabbing some nondescript thing towards the end of the song!) The record ends in a rather nice coda which hints at a more optimistic future or, at least, at survival after a zombie apocalypse.” Tony Gillam, Passengers in Time

“‘Blazing Zombies’ is an undeniably fine comeback and I can’t wait to hear more from the band.” Manic Pop Thrills October 2025

“There’s no flab or filler here as the track builds steadily with more than a hint of menace epitomised by that characteristic (Red) guitar sound.” Big Tune In My Room October 2025

Ho Ho Hum, New Single December 2024

‘Such a moving video for such a powerful song. Thank you again, Red Guitars, for all you’re doing to raise awareness and support for refugees.’ Breaking Barriers

‘Thank you Red Guitars for your generous support and for using your music to shine a light on the struggles faced by refugees. “Ho Ho Hum” is a powerful reflection of resilience and hope, and we are deeply grateful for your kindness. Your efforts make a meaningful difference in the lives of the people we work with.’ Refugee Council

‘Huge congratulations to Red Guitars on the release of ‘Ho Ho Hum’. And thank you so much to you and your fans for your support. Every donation to Breaking Barriers will help refugees overcome the challenges they face to finding of meaningful work, and help them build new lives.’ Breaking Barriers

Incredible track. The patina of the passage of time on the voice, and the yearnings for ‘home’ on a personal level are deeply poignant … and then the context of the absolute horror of the reality of so many people’s lives … Wonderful sound on this song: refreshing clarity and space to let the instruments breathe; great bass; delicious sounding guitar. Worth the 38 year wait! Junkyard of Silenced Poets

‘Good music & good people. This is their first new music since then I think & it’s no surprise it’s an effort at making a difference & supporting people in need.’ Tim Dredge

‘An incredible mix of frailty and heft sung and played with lyricism and underlying anger. Great track Red Guitars, and welcome back! Donation done.’ Bruce Woodcock

‘What a fantastic return and what a heartfelt lyric: can’t wait for the album.’ Nick Tranmer

‘Man, I really enjoyed that song: the high intensity parts contrasted with the quieter parts really pulled me into the song and kept me there! Thanks for sharing it. I will go check out those charities you mention too.’ Chuck E Bluesky

‘Brilliant. Terrific song from Red Guitars with a powerful message. In the 3rd decade of the 21st century we have learned very little. Needs to be heard far and wide in these troubled times.’ Tony Goodger

‘Really great video you have for the song – very impactful.’ Chioma, Love Music Hate Racism

‘A beautiful song and Hallam’s vocal conveys the meaning of the song perfectly. Fantastic to hear new music from you. Have donated to both charities as they both do brilliant work and wishing you all the very best for the new era of the band.’ Skylla Ceto

‘A beautiful & poignant song. Great to hear, & great to hear you are still creating tunes. Best wishes to yuz all.’ Kent

‘Ohhh, Its like meeting up with a long lost best friend. What a warm beautiful vibe, & such an important message! I could listen to that all day ( maybe I will). Fantastic composition Hal & the rest of you still sound SO great too.’ (donation incoming)

‘Its such a lovely tune/composition, really fantastic & Hals lyrics are very touching.’ Manic Bluesky

‘At last, new music from the Red Guitars. A social conscience and a beautiful melody.’ Mike Smith

‘That’s an absolute banger of a track.’ Ian Halstead

‘Made the donation to breaking barriers. A Christmas present to myself (thanks all of you x)’ Captain Manic

‘A beautiful and moving new song. So fitting for Christmas time.’ Janice Van Tonder

‘I’ve rarely ever been interested in bands that reform just to play their old songs; however, when a re-formed band starts writing new material, that makes a world of difference to me. Well done, Red Guitars.’ Andy Roe

‘Simply wonderful. Hallam’s voice seems a perfect match to the sentiments of his lyrics, and I love how the music ebbs and flows to reflect the full range of emotions the subject evokes. A new classic in the Red Guitars songbook!’ Tim Bourne

‘Brilliant and very powerful.’ Fred McNeill Paisley Punk Scene

‘A beautiful and contemplative piece of music that articulates the struggles of refugees around the world.’ Tim Dalton Music Events

‘The song is fantastic and just what we need right now.’ Simon Bristow, Editor The Hull Story

‘Donation duly sent. Well done guys. Such a powerful song/video.’ Clive Parkinson

‘Cracking song and very moving vid. Will share around!’ Tribes of Europe

‘Brilliant, love it, Hallam’s voice is a great fit.’ Holy Gasoline

‘A touching & wonderful song about the desperate plight of Refugees & all they ask in return for this gift is that you support the charities . . . I have, can you?’ Capt.HB

‘Great to see the new single. Many happy times living in Hull 83/84 and seeing the band locally and even drove up to Glasgow to see them at a club on Sauchiehall Street and even still have a bootleg cassette from Retford Porterhouse gig. Thanks for many wonderful memories.’ Viv Russell

‘Great track a bit of a slow burner and poignant lyrics as well. Love it.’ Paul Hiscoe

‘The Red Guitars and us go way back, and they’ve just announced the release of their first new song since 1986! It’s a charity single and it’s sort of a Christmas single, too. It’s definitely not a darkwave single, but it IS a free BandCamp download, and a fine video, too. Most importantly, it’s all wrapped around a VERY good cause: a request that you donate in support of refugees. The links for donations to the Refugee Council and to Breaking Barriers are in the description below the YouTube video. Listen, watch, enjoy, share, but most importantly, show your support for this worthiest of causes’. Lunar Paths

‘If refugees needed an anthem, well this is it.’ Ian H

‘We’ve been so thrilled by the generosity of Red Guitars fans, and we love the perspective each member of the band brings to Ho Ho Hum’s backstory. On behalf of Breaking Barriers’ team and the refugees we work with across the UK, thank you so much to everyone who has downloaded and donated!’ Breaking Barriers

‘Ho Ho Hum’ Featured in:

MusicLoveMusic I Hull Story I Manic Pop Thrills I REP*EAT Fanzine

Good Technology 2023 Tour

“The final night seeing Red Guitars in Brighton was fantastic. 5 gigs, 950 miles, it has been an absolute joy to see them live again and the highlight of my gig career. I loved every moment and had the biggest thrill watching them play each time. Thanks for the most amazing tour!” Skylla

“Red Guitars played a scorching final gig of the tour tonight in Brighton, blowing away even the high winds and heavy rain lashing down outside! I sang along as if I could actually sing (not just shout). I bounced along (as if my knees were young again). Fingers crossed we get to do this all again and soon, please, folks!” Tim Bourne

“Superb performance last night guys! Brought back so many memories of when I last saw you when I was at Hull University back in the early eighties. Such a delight to watch a band who are obviously having a blast on stage and enjoying every minute!” Mark Lewis

“They certainly have some impressive new material. I am particularly taken with one track that has a Spaghetti Western-meets-Spy Movie aura. Naturally they bring the house down with Good Technology but it is possibly Astronomy and Marimba Jive that are my personal highlights along with a tough-as-f*** version of Steeltown. It has been another night of great melodies, some goose-bumping instrumental play and the same defiantly individual and energetic nature that always marked them out. Long may they continue.” Neil March, Trust the Doc Issue 84

“FAB Band in a Legendary Venue!! 39 yrs since the last time… what an amazing night!! Looking forward to the new album and tour!!” Alan on Twitter

“Thanks for coming out to play for us again… oh it brought back so many memories and new ones too!” StevoMusicMan

“It just keeps getting better. Joy. Absolute joy. Thanks for a wonderful September. And looking forward to the next time…” Mike Yeats Oxford

“Just back from seeing the inimitable Red Guitars in Oxford. Utterly fantastic gig. My face hurts from smiling. Thank you!” Chris Scott

“About last night… Red Guitars played a storming set and then brought on a special guest for the first encore. Elton John wasn’t available, so they had to make do with me.The biggest of thanks to the guys for asking me to join them onstage. It really, really meant a lot.” Roger Millington

“The Red Guitars were celebrating the 40th anniversary of the classic chiming guitar led single ‘Good Technology, Lyrically it was years ahead of its time, prophetic, is still extremely relevant, and the highlight of the set, but there were others too. “Fact’ with its remonstrative ‘Take the profits out of war’ refrain, of its time ‘Steeltown’, and encore of the Hi Life inspired “Marimba Jive’ were all classic singles from their first incarnation, but they still have something to say, most notably on the political Trickle Down’. Bassist Lou beamed throughout, and while all 3 guitarists suitably attired would not look out of place in The Grateful Dead, with their amps turned up to almost maximum …” Richard Penguin Triangle Magazine

“Euphoric version of this encore favourite last night, as the gig buddy I’d been talking to at this and previous Red Guitars shows disappeared from my side just before the encore, then was surprisingly called onto stage! He hadn’t mentioned a word to me about this happening (apparently it’s just because I didn’t ask!) but still fabulous so I won’t hold that against him! And hope the band don’t mind me posting this, given the lovely circumstances….” Tim Bourne, 100 Club

“They had great songs, cutting lyrics and a guitar sound to die for, but were their tastes too eclectic to hold an indie audience who rarely strayed out into the sun? In the cold light of day it seemed like a good question. In the live arena, however, every doubt was blown away. Having seen many band reformations we can genuinely say that very few have been as enjoyable, edifying and heart-warming as Red Guitars were in Manchester. We always say that if you are going to be in band then look like you are in a band, and the Red Guitars looked fabulous. Obviously they were older, but they were dressed to the nines and, really importantly, they all had fabulous shoes, with Jerry’s red suede numbers particularly splendid….They received a great reception and appeared delighted; it was incredibly well deserved. This was a terrific evening, one of the best of the year.” Adam Hammond, Isolation Records

“Naturally they bring the house down with Good Technology but it is possibly Astronomy and Marimba Jive that are my personal highlights along with a tough-as-f*** version of Steeltown. It has been another night of great melodies, some goose-bumping instrumental play and the same defiantly individual and energetic nature that always marked them out. Long may they continue.” Trust the Doc Edition 84

“The last of the Red Guitars 12-date UK tour at Brighton Chalk tonight. Though age contemporaries of mine, I’d never heard their music until the 100 Club gig three days ago, a real miss on my part, so quite pleased they appeared to signal more live dates to come.” Stephen Smith

“What a wonderful evening in Norwich. I met other fans of Red Guitars, saw friends I’d not seen in decades, and heard the incredible Red Guitars play. Thank you for tonight and all the years of joy your music has given me.” Tassie

“Very much enjoyed both new and old songs which are seamless in style. So good to hear the songs again delivered with all of the original musicality and life verve.” Pattimomomo

“Fabulous night thank you. Enjoyed the new material. Hallam was outstanding.” Virtual Virgil London

“Birmingham, reminded me of my 80s childhood, but seeing them perform tonight made me realise how well they have crafted their skill, amazing live performance, and I think I’ve fallen in love again. Great band, world class bass player.” Edward Orange

“Cracking show at the 100 club last night – thank you! I did my homework and listened to Slow to Fade the evening before – I had forgotten what a great LP it is. I would have worn my Czeck It Out T-shirt but it seems to have shrunk over the years…” David Woodhouse

“Two words keep reappearing about this tour – smiling and joy. Thanks for making the world a brighter place.” Mikey

“That was absolutely bloody awesome. The new songs sound fantastic, can’t wait for the new album to come out.” Ian Colquhoun, London

“Red Guitars were insanely good. Thank the lord I live in Brighton so I can see them a second time so soon.” Stephen Smith

“I’m still buzzing from seeing Red Guitars in Birmingham on Thursday. So uplifting. Red Guitars gigs should be available on prescription. They convey such joy and exuberance. And the feeling is slow to fade. Catch these guys whenever you can. “Strike a chord in the coldest heart / Marimba jive – jive and survive!”” Tony Gillam

“At first I thought, this sound live, compared to a recording has to be top 4, in the company of bands like U2, Kula Shaker and Del Amitri, all capable of producing a sound as good or better than on records. Then I thought, all the other I saw in their prime, and at the top of their game. Not forty years later! Staggered at how fantastic it sounded.” Scott Lilley

“Another fantastic gig and thumbs up to the new tracks, especially the one with a bit of a Spaghetti Western and dub aura.” Neil March, London

“39 years since I last saw Red Guitars FAB to see them again playing most of Slow to Fade Album and some cracking new choonz at 100 Club, London.” Alan Wareham

“Fantastic gig. A 40 yr wait over. You guys were brilliant. The Room smashed it too. Thank you Thank you.” Chris Chapman

“Just popped in from the other place to say thank-you to Red Guitars for a marvellous gig at 100 Club London – 40 years feels like a long time to wait to see a band…but it was fantastic and joyful.” Martin G

“100 club was a great setting for an amazing gig. Music still as fresh and relevant as ever. New tracks sounded amazing. Looking forward to new album. The Room smashed it too!” Chris Chapman

“The tour posters are excellent, typical Red Guitars, not taking the corporate stance, going their own way.” Steve Jay Design

“Shuffled my day round to see Red Guitars at O2Academy Birmingham – one of my better decisions! Didn’t see them live first time round, so have waited 40 odd years to see these songs live! And they played Marimba Jive! Whole band was awesome.” Mike Resound

“Fantastic gig tonight at the Joiners. Thank you so much. It was so good to see the band that created some of the songs I have enjoyed for 40 years. What an awesome band. Good luck with the rest of the tour.” Andy Elliott

“A joy seeing Red Guitars tonight at The Joiners, reflected in all the smiles on band & crowd. Old songs like Good Technology are as fresh and vital as ever, and the new songs first heard in Hull 3 months ago have evolved, sharpened and settled very nicely into the live set.” Tim Bourne

“I bought tickets to see Red Guitars at The Joiners on the strength of one 40-year-old song, and ended up loving the whole damn lot. Special thanks to Lou for striking my awe.” Jane Hoskyn

“What an amazing night in Bristol! You sounded brilliant and it’s great to have some new songs. Haven’t smiled so much in years. Thank you for coming to the south west!!” Chris Crane Bristol

“Red Guitars absolutely brilliant in Bristol tonight!” Lee Flaneur Bristol

“Almost 40 years after I first saw them (supporting The Smiths, Rock City Nottingham, 15 February, 1984), Red Guitars still amazing. Best three-guitar band on the planet…” Darrell Mann Bristol

“Great to see the African inspired and still politically relevant after 40 years Red Guitars tonight at Exchange Bristol” Cllr Helen Thornton

“You were cooking on gas last night and the new songs got the applause they deserve. See you next in Oxford!’ Michael Yeats

“What an awesome show last night in Bristol, we had such a good time. Loved the new songs! Opening with Dive was sweet!” Rick Whitman

“Not only did they breeze through rousing versions of old favourites from Good Technology, along with a few new tracks, but they also oozed charm throughout, with each member displaying true enjoyment at being on stage and really engaging with the audience. A huge plus for the 6-piece from Hull is the quite wonderful sound from their four-guitar set-up. Some of the nimble playing from the barefooted lead guitarist was just mesmeric and could easily have stopped you in your tracks – if it wasn’t for the sensational beats coming from all angles to make the most stubborn of limbs shuffle, sway, rock, dip and swagger.” Darrell Aspery Newcastle

“Magnificent gig by ⁦Red Guitars⁩ at the lovely ⁦Dorothy Pax⁩ bar down by Sheffield canal basin. It’s like the Cavern. Thanks to all concerned. Love the new tracks, bring on the LP.” Pop Music Tourism in Yorkshire

“A brilliant show as always from Red Guitars at The Dorothy Pax tonight.” Peter Matejic“When you’ve waited 40 years to see your favourite band from 1983 and they’re still bloomin’ brilliant!” Nigel King at Sheffield

“Just got back from Sheffield. Red Guitars were as wonderful as ever. Small stage, huge sound.” Roger Millington

“Red Guitars were an absolute treat again. Some belting new songs too!” Eddie Coates-Madden

“Wonderful night, so good. After all this time, still fantastic!” Roger Wilde

The Sheffield gig was wonderful! One of the great nights! Terry Guest

“An outstanding gig at a terrific venue. 40 years on, the Red Guitars are better than ever, indicative of their material which has proven to be timeless and to their playing which has matured to the very highest level. Just magnificent!” David Burnby at Leeds

“Thanks for making these posters available; a continuation of the beautiful artwork and composition on the Good Technology reissue. You’re creating a design aesthetic on a par with Factory and early 4AD; plan to have these brighten my wall.” Michael Yeates

“One of the best gigs my son and I have been to this year. Keep on rocking.” Paul Hiscoe

“Fantastic gig at the Old Woollen, the new songs were brilliant.” Andrew Rayner

“Thanks for an exceptional gig tonight. You clearly show how much you are enjoying playing together again – including the new songs which sound great. I picked up the Good Technology CD from the merch table and played it full blast in the car on the way home. Fact! Thanks Red Guitars.” Kyle Calvert Newcastle

“Guys the gig tonight was sensational, one of the new songs (Beyond the Blue) was brilliant, reminded me of Calexico, but with a Hull twist! Hope the rest of the tour goes well.” Eric Hindmarsh Newcastle

“Red Guitars were on fire last night” Jonathan Wood, Manchester (Twitter/X)

“Loved it! Fantastic show – great to see a band enjoy it almost as much as the crowd. Don’t miss out – go and see it if you get the chance.” Marc Bolton Manchester

“Quality evening, was expecting about an hour but got 1½hrs. Loved all the smiling faces, and even got a mention by the band for my FACT t-shirt.” Mike Vincent Manchester

“The Cluny2 in Newcastle for me last night to see indie band Red Guitars, and I don’t have enough superlatives to describe just how good they were. Simply outstanding!

Red Guitars – what makes these gigs so special is how much everyone – band and audience – is enjoying themselves…

‘Steeltown’ as the fanfare to Scunthorpe tomorrow. And ‘Good Technology’ is just prescient. And a long chat with the creator of the beautiful posters; each crafted with a particular story.” Mike Yeats Leeds

“Back in 2019 I shared a video and wondered whatever happened to Red Guitars ?? Well now we know!! They’re back on Tour and sounding as FAB as ever!” Alan Wareham

“Special gig, thank you Red Guitars. Looking forward very much to the tour in September and, on the evidence of the three new tracks played tonight, can’t wait for the completion and release of the new album!” Tim Bourne

“The Red Guitars – I can’t even begin to articulate what an experience I’ve had this evening. Watching a band in their home town of Hull that I toured with 39 years ago. Their songs and lyrics are still relevant and haven’t particularly aged over the years. “We’ve got computers that can find you friends”. This was 1984. I was 22 years old and had seen them on The Tube. I was thrilled to do a UK tour as a faithful roadie with Sideway Look who were supporting them. As I watched this evening, I was just ecstatic to be able to replicate the feeling that I had when I first heard them all those years ago. The audience was amazing and it was a pleasure and a privilege to be here. The years have gone by but the energy and buzz ensured that I still watched the gig through the lens of my 22 year old former self. I genuinely can’t explain how good it feels and it was magic to spend time reminiscing and reflecting on those precious moments of our youth.” Iain Kinnear

Good Technology 2023 Red Vinyl 12″ and Video

“Just listening to a pre-release copy of Red Guitars extended 2023 remix of ‘Good Technology.’ And I don’t believe what I’ve heard. By a country mile, one of the greatest pieces of music I’ve heard in YEARS.” London Peaky

“Exceptional work: music and video. This is one of THE absolute musical highlights of 2023: a majestic and powerful development of this iconic track… and profoundly moving.” Junkyard of Silenced Poets

“Absolutely mind blown by this rereleased extended version of Good Technology by Red Guitars. Still as fresh and prescient as it was 40 years ago.” Jonny Whiteoak

“40 years on … this song is actually more powerful, more poignant, more relevant and more vital than it was back then. Arresting, ear bending and original, I am convinced that if it was released today it would be seized upon by hip indie influencers as one of the next big things. The new video is especially jaw dropping, cleverly splicing images of the band performing now and then with disturbing warnings of where climate chaos, war and racism will lead us if we don’t take urgent united action to stop it.” R*E*P*E*A*T Magazine

“Now this is a thing of beauty… if you sometimes wonder what it is all about then this, is what it is all about.”

“Prophetic and superb. 40 years since original release.” Paul Wilson

“The record & sleeve is an item of beauty. The song speaks for itself & is as relevant today as it was 40 years ago. Unlike many of the lazy re-releases the band have included original reviews as well as comments & pics from today.” Gareth Watkin

“It’s a thing of great beauty!” Mark Rowland-Jones

Leeds Old Woollen 19th April 2022

“Wow! Red Guitars were absolutely brilliant tonight. 38 years since their last live show? Still got some amazing energy and a great bunch of songs. And what a great venue OldWoollen is. Definitely be paying it another visit.” jonnygarcon

“A triumphant return for Red Guitars with a wonderful gig at Old Woollen on the first date of their ‘Slow To Fade’ reunion tour. Stand out songs were ‘Slow To Fade’, ‘Fact’, ‘Steeltown’ and ‘Good Technology’. Terra Fin Music opened proceedings with a very enjoyable set … excellent evening of uplifting music.” Across the Universal Soundscape

“A great night at Old Woollen last night watching Red Guitars, a cracking venue. Roll on Manchester on Thursday” Thebubblegunman

“Great venue, great beer, great band, great tunes, great gig. To sum up, it wer’great!” StephenBatley2

“Last night was brilliant. See you at the 100 Club!”

“Fantastic opening gig last night! Looking forward to doing it all again tomorrow at Night & Day Cafe Manchester “

“I waited the best part of 40 years for last night’s Red Guitars gig. I wasn’t disappointed and I’m still smiling. Same again next week!” rogytds

“Great gig, great venue. We enjoyed every minute, and it looked like you all did too ! Wish we could come to one of the others, another tour please ?”

“Fantastic gig, it’s like you’ve never been away!”

“A wonderful gig, a real privilege to be there and just so much warmth, energy and fun from the band.”

“Tremendous night! Couldn’t stop smiling. You were freakin’ awesome”

Manchester Night & day Cafe 21st April 2022

“They were magnificent, Red Guitars, even better than I’d hoped for.” Rob Sim

“Wow! We jived & survived. They stand alone. “ Jonathan Wood

“Thought you lot were absolutely brilliant last night. Fantastic energy and the songs haven’t lost their power over the years. In fact Steeltown, Good Tech and Fact (in particular) sounded eerily modern. Thanks so much for getting the band back together. Brilliant. Enjoy every second. There’s a lovely energy coming from that stage. Just don’t leave it so long til you do it all over again!

Thought your lad’s band did a great job too, and will be following their progress. Onwards” Tom

“Had a great night watching Red Guitars again last night at night and day cafe Manchester. My main impression is that Lou LoudhailerUK is having the time of her life on that stage and weirdly doesn’t seem to age.” Nick

“Red Guitars Thank you so much. 38 years worth waiting for” MCFC PRAHA

“What’s immediately apparent is how unnoticeable is their near 40-year hiatus. Duffy-Howard and Lewis in particular take an almost telepathic delight in playing off one another. Their enthusiasm radiates into the throng, provoking outbursts of introspective skanking as jackets are removed and shirts are further loosened.” Northern Soul

“This gig was magical on every level. TRG’s we’re both tight and loose as good live acts should be. Hallam Lewis played sparkling lead guitar, seldom did his fingers hit the usual pentatonic scale his musical mode being more that of clever semi toned dorian mode scales with that of mixolydian. His fingers ran across the fretboard like a rats up a drain pipe and he played both with guts and imagination throughout, reaching the pinnacle of experience that surpassed all expectation. It was a team effort on vocals, harmonies ticked every box that any audience could have wished for. At times it felt like a CBGBs reunion with elements of Television and Talking Heads as well as high-life, jazz fusion elements far beyond the male-strum of Punk or new wave. TRG’s are closer to Captain Beefheart at times than any 1980 type parallels such as Joy Division.” Mr Bolton’s Propelling Pencil

Glasgow Garage 22nd April 2022

“The wonderful return of Red Guitars in Glasgow last night. I’ll be grinning for weeks – all of Slow To Fade, and the early singles played with pride, skill, and love to an audience who loved them back. Slow To Fade means a lot to me, remembering a lost friend – I was so moved.” IRobStacey1

“This is theeeeee red guitar. It sung last night, all the way from Cape Town. Small stage Big band, Huge noise, Tre-bloody-men-dous” pegdeg

“Well, thank you very much Red Guitars that was smashing. Just heard about gig the other night on Gideon Coe gidcoe, so glad I went. All filled up with emulsion (as my old malaproping auntie used to say).” JM

“Thank you guys so much for a wonderful gig last night in Glasgow, so good to finally see you live.” Scott McLuckie

“Yep! I was excited as soon as the re-union was announced, and the gig I went to in Glasgow was a lovely celebration of great songs, by a band who clearly were enjoying being back together and performing again. So many highlights – Cloak and Dagger being one of mine.” SR

“The set also reinforced my view on the strength of the band’s catalogue. They played pretty much everything they ever released and three of the four singles were played in the first half dozen songs, yet that didn’t affect the show’s momentum one bit. Album tracks like ‘Remote Control’ and ‘Dive’ were spectacular yet B-sides ‘Within Four Walls’ and an extended ‘Heartbeat Go!’ (used to introduce the band) were every bit their equal. All of this built the set nicely for a sensational (and complete!) ‘Good Technology’ which provided a singalong finale to the main set.” Manic Pop Thrills

“I’d been following Lou and her band on Twitter for a while, and when it was announced that the original line up of the Red Guitars was going to get back together and tour, I had to keep checking that it wasn’t some elaborate joke being played on me. It was truly a “dream come true” for me, as I’d loved the band in both line ups, and collected their back catalogue in record form over the years. A ticket was purchased as soon as they became available, and on Friday 22 April, I travelled across to Glasgow to attend the gig in The Attic, at the Garage on Sauciehall Street. It was lovely to recognise all the band as they mingled with us in the venue, and I reverted to being a gawky, diffident, teenage fan, asking for a 7″ single of Good Technology (The bands first single) to be signed, and offering a old Red Rhino Records bag as a bribe. The shop was based in York, and was where you bought the records that were outside the top 40, and released on independent labels, before “indie” became a musical genre. The gig was just a total joy – I have to admit that I’d shared my love of the band with a friend who lived in Belfast, on a road-trip to watch motorbike racing a few years ago, and it turned out he’d seen them when they supported The Smiths, and loved the title track of their first album, “Slow To Fade”. He’d had his demons, and died suddenly in 2006, and as soon as the opening guitar riffs chimed out, beautifully played by Hallam, and the superb John Rowley, my eyes welled up at the memory. I’m afraid to say that I was a bit of a mess during the whole song, but eventually composed myself – it was such a moving moment. The band encored with Paris France, and we all sang along, not wanting the night to end. A band that managed to combine brilliant lyrics, with music that was as uplifting as it was complicated, The Red Guitars remain my favourite band, and I just wanted to say “Thank You” to the band, and everyone associated with them for making me, and many other fans, so happy. With much love x” IRS

Hull New Adelphi Club 27th April 2022

“Best described as joyous. As for you not only are you a fabulous bass player but you exude such joy yourself. You were positively beaming, clearly enjoying yourself and that transmits to the audience, it’s infectious. It was also really good to speak with the other band members who are lovely people too. Wishing you the best for the rest of the tour. I’d love to know your fitness regime, you were bouncing around that stage like a spring lamb.” AM

“You guys absolutely smashed it, what an atmosphere.” Dylan Price, Hull Adelphi Club

“I’ve been to hundreds of gigs over the years, but Red Guitars at The Adelphi Club tonight was one of the best. Amazing songs and musicians who seem to be loving being back on the stage playing them.” Mark Powell

“Wow! Songs still very relevant and poignant 30+ years on. Amazing tunes. Thanks Red Guitars The Adelphi Club” Tiger Sue

“A sold out The Adelphi Club with the imperious Red Guitars Amazing gig. The love in the room was palpable.” The Gold Needles

“Well Red Guitars – I hope you enjoyed that gig at Adelphi Hull as much as we did!!!! Not danced so much in ages!!! Glad Lou still plays the fretless guitar! I feel 18 again!!! Come back soon!!!” Pauline Thornton

“Great gig. Top 5 The Adelphi Club for me.” Andy Currie

“Seems like all of Hull was crammed in! It was fab.” Sue Leighton

“It was unbelievable. Everybody I spoke to had a fantastic time. The collective and individual performances were stunning.” PA

“Great night with the Red Guitars at the New Adelphi. Stupendous set and atmosphere.” Rupert Creed

“Absolutely fantastic gig. Hallam is a brilliantly inventive guitarist.” Stephen Roe

“Turns out the Red Guitars are still the best band from Hull. Fantastic gig at the Adelphi tonight.” Stephen Roe

“Great gig tonight by Red Guitars at The Adelphi Club.Amazingly tight considering they haven’t played together since Thatcher was a lad. They were properly enjoying themselves as well. Cracking stuff.” Dave Lee

“Red Guitars – Great gig, tremendous sound, nostalgic for us old folks, but also great music and message… when’s the new album out! Steve Morantz

Brighton Green Door Store 28th April

2022

“There was always one band I wish I had seen live but never got the chance. Tonight my wish came true and after almost 40 years, I finally saw the amazing Red Guitars live. It was the best gig ever and there are not enough words to say how incredible the band were live.” Skylla

“Thank you, never thought I would get the chance to see you live again and it was even better than I hoped.” David Ealey

“Fantastic gig! I hope you enjoyed it as much as the audience seemed to.” Nigel Herron

“What an impact you’ve made up and down the country – well done all!” Rachel

“I was 16 when I saw you steal the show from The Smiths and have had those images of you stamped in my memory ever since. So it was great to see your parents on stage last night playing that excellent set!!” Steve Atkinson (haha very good Steve!)

“An evening spent with one of my oldest friends, MrRobert singing along to one of my favourite bands, with the biggest smile on my face. Thank you Red Guitars, that was brilliant. See you at the 100 Club.” Roger Millington

100 Club, London 29th April 2022

“So much joy in the room for Red Guitars at the 100clubLondon last night. Uplifting to see brilliant musicians playing together again after 38 years. Slow to fade, as the song says.” John Pullman

“Friday evening with the fabulous Red Guitars at The 100 Club. I had waited 35 years for this tour and they did not disappoint!” Rob Telford

“I’m at a gig – a real live gig with Red Guitars and they are rocking!” Liz Treacher

“What an extraordinary bunch of musicians Red Guitars. I will need my jaw rewiring after watching that. Utterly joyous. I am 17 again.” Steve M

“You were absolutely brilliant. Overwhelmingly so. (I NEARLY plucked up the courage to speak to you in the audience during the support but didn’t want to intrude). Thank you so much. Seeing you again 38! years after Coventry Poly meant a lot. Heartbeat Go!!” PeteM.

“Wonderful to see Red Guitars in London last night. Absolutely loved it! I was 17 when I first saw them and I felt 17 again. Hoping to see them in 2060, if not (preferably) before!” Andrew Hook

“Last night was one of those ‘moments’. A band that clearly meant a lot to people, sonically and politically. And the lyrics are so fresh still. Shaken not Stirred, Good Technology, Sting in the Tale, chillingly spot on. Am still buzzing.” Steve Morgan

“Wow guys what an extra special treat to see you at the 100 club last night I had the best fun, thank you best wishes to all from David”

“I knew you were good. I didn’t realise after 38 years away it could still be THAT good. Such an intricate sound, yet so accessible. Great onstage chemistry, too.”

“Red Guitars on top form at The 100 Club last night. I described Brighton as brilliant, and this was better than Brighton.“ Roger Millington

“Two absolutely stunning gigs – last week in Manchester and last night in London. Please don’t leave it another 38 years until your next tour… ‘cos I might be getting on a bit by then.” David Gibson

“Amazing night at 100clubLondon with stellar sets by Red Guitars Fragile Creatures. Great to meet the amazing Lou LoudhailerUK in person & what a bass guitarist she is. Lovely to see Adam & Neville again & what a great audience.” Neil March

Another full house and belting show for Red Guitars this time at the 100 Club in London.” Phil Ascough

“I’ve waited 40 years! And I was not disappointed… such a brilliant show full of energy and just the best music!” Tia K Iqbal

“Magnificent gig in London last night.” Keith Phillips

“A stunning evening and nearly forty years after I first saw you live you’ve just got even better. Oh and I even got to replace the t-shirt I lost many years ago.” Simon Maurice

“Fantastic night. Looked like the band were all having a great night too playing a superb set. Thanks.” Darren Lewis

“Thank you for last night, I really enjoyed it. I never thought I’d get the chance to see you live. I’ve loved your music for 35 years and I still play your albums now. Thanks again.” Peter Lane

“It’s not an exaggeration to say I have waited nearly forty years to see you play live. And I was not disappointed.” Gary Couzens

“An iconic band playing an iconic venue, it was pure magic.” Simon Higgins

“… to the unbridled joy of a packed venue, they surge into a scintillating rendition of Marimba Jive, Hallam’s South African inspired guitar figures playing off against Lou’s sumptuous sliding fretless bassline. It takes seconds to establish that Jerry has lost nothing of the power and distinctive character in his voice and the band have lost nothing of their interlocking groove-making chemistry… ” Trust the Doc

Birmingham O2 Institute 30th April 2022

“The Birmingham gig was breathtakingly brilliant. I still haven’t come back down to Earth yet! Absolutely inspiring.” Tony Gillam

“I only wish I could have attended more than just the one; it was an absolutely fabulous night. If you can do it again, please, please do! Failing that, a live album would be a very lovely thing. Thank you.” David Brown

“Red Guitars it’s taken 4 decades to see this band live, utterly awesome. A great night, you all sounded immense. And you all looked as if you enjoyed it.” Chuck Middleton

“Was the 3rd night in a row seeing this great band – last seen in 1986! Such utter joy to see these amazing people and musicians performing the songs that have shaped me, with sounds that turn you inside out. Thank you!!” MrRober16070170

“A 38-year gap, but definitely worth the wait to see Red Guitars, recently reformed with all the original members. Thanks for a great show!”

“Overjoyed to catch you live again last night – lovely to see the whole gang back together. Thanks for a great night – you nailed it! Many thanks also for all of you signing my 38-year-old gig poster (adding to Johnny Marr!) Safe journeys back to your various homes & continents.” Tim Bourne

“I think that the whole tour has been so enjoyable for everyone involved, and especially for the fans attending the gigs. The songs are just so good, and the musicianship has been spot-on, Jerry’s lyrics ever prescient and moving.” Ian Stacey

“I saw Red Guitars last week. First gig in over two years. A great night, and a real mental health boost.“ Pete Moxon

“Lovely stuff. I was a fan. Had GT (which still sounds great) after seeing them on The Tube and Marimba Jive. They got heavy rotation from me back in the day.” Steven McKevitt

“I never caught them first time round so this was a MUST!!! Excellent night, that bass, those guitars. Cracking night, much love!!!” The New Fools

“Yup, brilliant night ! And another vote for more gigs please!” Mike Jeffries

“Brilliant gig; and really nice to be able to talk to some of the band.” John McCabe

“They say never meet your Heroes. Well that does not apply to the Red Guitars. Brilliant band, Brilliant Gig and brilliant people. I waited 38 years to see them live and it was worth every single minute.”

“April ended with yet another gig in Birmingham and this was the best I’ve been to in many a long year. Birmingham’s O2 Institute played host to a reformed Red Guitars – one of my favourite indie bands of the 1980s. In the early eighties, while the aforementioned Spandau Ballet were topping the charts with hits like True and Gold, Hull-based Red Guitars were crafting a unique blend of indie rock and African jit-jive and releasing a classic gem of an album called Slow to Fade. Seeing Red Guitars play songs like ‘Remote Control,’ ‘Crocodile Tears’ and ‘Good Technology’ more than 30 years after this short-lived band split up seemed nothing short of miraculous and I was completely overwhelmed with a combination of joy and nostalgia for my youth. It was a pleasure to shake hands with bassist Lou Loudhailer, (who has featured elsewhere on this blog as part of Agent Starling.)” Tony Gillam, Passengers in Time

“Please do another show fantastic !!” Keith Phillips

“What a night. I’ve waited since 1984 for this and you did not disappoint. Brilliant. Please tour again……PLEASE.” Steve Buck