Never mind the Pistols…here’s the lesser-known gems you must hear from Virgin’s bulky back catalogue
Since its first release in 1973 (Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells), Virgin Records has always provided an outlet for brilliant, boundary-pushing acts. And Emeli Sandé. Now, as the label celebrates its 40th anniversary with an ace photo exhibition, we’ve selected eight lesser-known Virgin cuts for your enjoyment…
Listen to them all on our Spotify playlist
Captain Beefheart – Upon The My-O-My (1974)
Mad, howling slice of R&B from the avant-garde hero.
U-Roy – Chalice In The Palace (1975)
This dubby number floats the excellent idea of getting stoned with the Queen.
The Mighty Diamonds – Right Time (1976)
Bass-soaked roots reggae classic.
Can – I Want More (1976)
The Kraut-rockers’ only hit single, which landed them on Top Of The Pops.
The Skids – TV Stars (1979)
Spiky little punk gem chronicling notable television personalities.
Magazine – A Song From Under The Floorboards (1980)
“I am angry, I am ill and I’m as ugly as sin.” Gloriously gloomy post-punk.
XTC – Generals And Majors (1980)
Best ever use of whistling in a song? We think so.
Cabaret Voltaire – Just Fascination (1983)
Cold, vaguely terrifying, new wave genius from the band that made Sheffield cool long before Pulp and the Arctics.
‘Virgin Records: 40 Years Of Disruption’ runs until 29 October at Victoria House, London; virgin40.com
(Image: Barry Plummer)
