Anti System
Anti System is an English anarcho-punk band formed in 1982 in Bradford, West Yorkshire. The original lineup included Phil, George, Dom, and Dave Damned on vocals. After their first gig at the Palm Cove in Bradford on September 14, 1982, Dave Damned was replaced by Simon “Nogsy” Nolan on vocals. The band quickly gained attention and recorded a demo at Lion Studios in Leeds, which led to their signing with Pax Records, a prominent punk label of the era.
Anti System’s first tracks, “Mansworld” and “Breakout,” were featured on the Pax Records compilation Punk Dead – Nah Mate, The Smell Is Jus Summink In Yer Underpants Innit in early 1983. They followed this with their debut EP, In Defence of the Realm, a five-track release showcasing their early anarcho-punk sound. Around this time, the band saw some lineup changes, with George being replaced by guitarist Mickey Knowles, formerly of Raw, although George appears on two tracks of the EP.
The band continued to evolve with further releases, such as the split single “Strange Love/So Long As,” and their first full-length album, No Laughing Matter, which came out in 1985. Another notable release during this period was the 12″ EP, A Look at Life, which marked a high point for the band.
Like many anarcho-punk bands of the time, Anti System were outspoken about animal rights, and their early EP was a benefit for animal welfare organizations. Two of the band members, Mark Keane and Michael Teale, were imprisoned in 1986 for animal rights activism, shortly after recording A Look at Life.
Reformation
After years of inactivity, Anti System reformed in 2012 with guitarist Varik leading the way. This new lineup included past members Mark Keane and Mickey Knowles. Since their reformation, Anti System has continued to perform live and release new material, keeping the spirit of anarcho-punk alive.
Musical Style
Anti System’s sound is heavily rooted in anarcho-punk and hardcore punk, often categorized as part of the UK82 movement. Their lyrics are politically charged, supporting anarchism and animal rights. Some of their biggest musical influences include bands like Black Flag, Crass, and Conflict.
Members
- Dean Martindale – Vocals
- Mickey Knowles – Guitar
- Mark “Varik” Teale – Guitar
- Mark “Keaney” Keane – Bass
- Kevin Frost – Drums
Discography
Recordings
- 82 Demo (Self Release, 1982)
- In Defence of the Realm (EP, Pax Records, 1983)
- No Laughing Matter (LP, Reconcile, 1985)
- A Look at Life (12″, Reconcile, 1986)
- Live At Sheffield Marples (LP – Unreleased)
- Split 7″ w/MORBID HUMOUR (Reconcile, 1986)
- What Price Freedom (Boss Tuneage, 2017)
