Eater

Eater is an early British punk rock band from North London, known for being one of the youngest bands in the punk scene. Formed in 1976, their name was inspired by a lyric from Marc Bolan. The band gained recognition with their energetic and youthful sound, which Mojo magazine ranked among the best punk rock singles of all time in October 2001 for their track “Thinking of the USA.”

History

Eater was formed by four high school friends from Finchley, North London: singer and guitarist Andy Blade (real name: Ashruf Radwan), guitarist Brian Chevette (real name: Brian Haddock), drummer Social Demise (real name: Lutfi Radwan), and bassist Ian Woodcock. Although they were based in London, their first gig took place in Manchester on September 20, 1976, with Buzzcocks as their support act. Eater became a staple of the punk scene, especially in London, where they played at the famed Roxy Club.

Despite their youthful ages—ranging from 14 to 17—Eater quickly made a name for themselves. Known for their raw sound and defiant energy, they released a series of singles, including their debut “Outside View” (March 1977), followed by “Thinking of the USA” (June 1977) and “Lock It Up” (October 1977). Their only full-length album, The Album, was released on November 11, 1977, and included punked-up covers of David Bowie and Velvet Underground songs. The band released a live EP, Get Your Yo-Yo’s Out, in 1978 before disbanding in early 1979.

Reunions

Over the years, Eater reunited several times, including performances at the Holidays in the Sun festival in 1996 and a reunion show in 1999. They played another reunion gig in 2006 at London’s 100 Club. In 2022, Andy Blade brought back Eater, playing shows across the UK with plans to release a new album in 2023.

Later Projects

After the breakup of Eater, several members went on to pursue other musical projects. Ian Woodcock joined The Vibrators in 1979, while drummer Phil Rowland played with Slaughter & the Dogs and London Cowboys. Guitarist Gary Steadman went on to join Classix Nouveaux. Andy Blade attempted a solo career during the 1980s and later published a memoir, The Secret Life of a Teenage Punk Rocker, in 2005.

Discography

Studio Albums

• The Album (1977, The Label)

Live EP

• Get Your Yo-Yo’s Out (1978, The Label)