Draft:Manchester Records

The History of Involuntary Love Noise

The Early Years: The Love Noises The Love Noises were formed in 1959 by Major Bill Key, a man whose name would become synonymous with the band's tumultuous journey. Their first studio album, You Took The ‘B’ From My Blues, released in 1966, received mixed reviews, reflecting the band's struggle to find its footing in the music scene.

Evolution and Early Success In 1966, the band rebranded themselves as Involuntary Love Noise. They achieved minor success when their single Shut The Fur Cup reached number 50 in the folk charts. This was followed by the release of the acoustic mini-album, You Put The ‘R’ In Soul, marking the beginning of their experimentation with different musical styles.

Breakthrough and Controversy The band's breakthrough came in 1975 with the single Bulls Hit, which introduced their new funky style. This was followed by the seminal album, There Ain’t No en In Funk. The album's cover, featuring a suggestive and groundbreaking use of a tilted letter, was immediately banned, creating a storm of controversy. Major Bill Key, ever the provocateur, issued a scathing press release accusing the media of “funking with the wrong motherfunking funker.” His defiant advertising campaign in Melody Maker further stirred the pot, eventually leading to a legal battle that would financially ruin him.

The Rock Opera and Further Struggles Amidst the controversy, the band took a hiatus from touring and secretly worked on a rock opera. The release of the Smooth Rock single in 1980 was followed by a live double album of their Broadway musical, Wot Skools 4. However, disaster struck when the theatre was condemned after only one performance due to asbestos falling from the ceiling. In 1982, Major Key disbanded the group to focus on his ongoing legal battles and the numerous claims of compensation from audience members.

The Comeback and Tragic End In 1989, journalist Terry Bullwind, a devoted fan, rallied 29 former members to reform the band in support of Major Bill Key, who had become penniless. They released a Christmas album, It’s Just A Load Of Balls, but due to a copyright issue with the cover art, it was released in January 1990 and sales were disappointing.

In 1998, Major Key discovered an old cassette recording of a 1970 soundcheck, leading to the release of Catch It in 1999, which included two previously unheard tracks. The album exceeded sales expectations, prompting Major Key to assemble a new lineup for one last album and a European tour. The single For The Weaker Sex and the album You’re In Trouble followed in 2000 and 2001 respectively.

The Wee Luv It Wen U’re In Trubble European Tour kicked off to great success in Denmark. However, tragedy struck when the plane carrying the band and its entourage crashed in the Skagerrak Straits between Denmark and Norway, resulting in the loss of all aboard.

Legacy and Rediscovery Involuntary Love Noise was a band that defied categorization. Their vast array of members and eclectic musical styles left a unique mark on the music world. Major Bill Key’s inclusive approach meant that age, race, sex, style, and motive were irrelevant; if you were good enough, you were in the band.

Recently, Manchester Records uncovered the entire catalogue of Involuntary Love Noise, tucked away in dusty archives. A spokesperson for the label noted, “When Manchester Records first recorded The Love Noises all those years ago, none of us were alive.” This rediscovery allows a new generation to explore the rich, albeit chaotic, legacy of a band that truly knew no boundaries.

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Involuntary love Noise (fan site)

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