On this episode of The Paul Weller Fan Podcast,
I chat with Bob Manton and 'Just Jeff'
Shadbolt from Purple Hearts. Formed in
1978, they were a mod-influenced band that blended elements of
post-punk, new wave, and mod revival, creating a distinct and
energetic sound that resonated with a wide audience beyond the
confines of the mod scene.
We talk about their discovery of The Jam as punk loving teenagers
in Essex, to the creation of their first band The Sockets and an
original punk rock opera inspired by a NME cartoon strip that
poked fun of Paul, Bruce and Rick...
That band turned into Purple Hearts and a more mod-influenced
sound, which, thanks largely to The Jam, was beginning to capture
public attention.
The band even went on to support The Jam in 1981 - and Paul
Weller even produced and played on a couple of songs for what
would have been their second album...
As you'll hear on the podcast, whilst they were often associated
with the mod scene, Purple Hearts transcended
categorization, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of their
audience that continues to beat strong over four decades later.
Their unique blend of music and passion for mod culture set them
apart, making them not just a mod band, but a band that truly
loved and embodied the mod spirit.
For the latest news on the band - head to their Facebook group
here...
The Band
Bob's distinct vocals and Jeff's skilled bass-guitar work formed
the foundation of the band's sound with guitarist, Simon Stebbing
and Gary Sparks on drums. Their partnership went beyond just
musical collaboration – it was a meeting of minds that allowed
Purple Hearts to craft songs that resonated deeply with their
audience.
The Fans
Purple Hearts' connection with their audience wasn't just
ephemeral; it was deeply personal and lasting. The band's lyrics
spoke to the realities of everyday life, love, and the struggles
of youth, resonating with fans across generations. Their
relatable songs weren't confined to a specific time or place,
giving them a timeless appeal that continues to draw listeners
in. This connection wasn't solely about the music; it was about
sharing experiences and emotions that have universal relevance.
The Weller Connection
Purple Hearts signed to Chris Parry's Fiction Records label in
1979.
You may remember Chris from Episode 76 as the man who signed The
Jam to Polydor!.
When that deal came to an end, Paul Weller produced a couple of
demos for the band - also playing and providing backing vocals on
Plane Crash and Concrete Mixer.
In February 1981, Purple Hearts supported
The Jam on tour dates at Sheerwater Youth Club
Woking, Norwich University, Nottingham University and Crawley
Leisure Centre.
Bob and Jeff also mentioned Brighton, although I haven't managed
to find a live date in 1981 for that in the archives.... do let
me know people!
Photo on the cover - Martyn Goddard (Podcast Guest 41) also took
the shot for the cover of their single "My Life's a Jigsaw" on
Safari Records.
In 2021, Bob and Jeff created PH2 (Internationally known as
Purple Hearts 2) and released a couple of new singles - Produced,
Engineered and Mixed by Steve Cradock - 1974 / You Can't Tell Me
Lies and Urban Soul / Livin' in the 70's.
In a further link with The Jam , you can see Purple Hearts on the
road in 2023 and 2024 supporting Bruce Foxton and Russell
Hasting's From The Jam...
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