The Only Ones: A Musical Biography

If you haven't heard of The Only Ones, you may be missing out on one of the most talented and influential bands in the history of punk rock. The Only Ones formed in London in 1976, and over the course of their career, gained a dedicated following and inspired countless musicians. In this article, we'll cover The Only Ones' beginnings, their most seminal albums, their most famous songs, as well as their musical style and influences.

The Only Ones began when guitarist/songwriter Peter Perrett met drummer Mike Kellie. The two formed a band with bassist Alan Mair and guitarist John Perry, which they called The Only Ones. The band's self-titled debut album was released in 1978, and is considered a classic of the British punk rock scene. The album received critical acclaim, and includes songs like Another Girl, Another Planet and The Whole of the Law, which are still considered among the best punk songs ever written.

The band's second album, Even Serpents Shine, was released in 1979 and showcased the band's musical growth. The album was more complex and experimental than their debut, and included a number of standout tracks such as From Here to Eternity and The Big Sleep. The Only Ones' third and final album, Baby's Got a Gun, was released in 1980 and showed the band moving towards a more polished, mainstream sound. While the album didn't achieve the commercial success the band had hoped for, it has since been recognized as an important album that pushed the boundaries of the punk rock genre.

The Only Ones' sound is characterized by its blend of punk and classic rock influences – something that was unusual in the punk scene at the time. The band's music also often featured intricate guitar work, courtesy of Perrett and Perry, and catchy, melodic hooks. While The Only Ones' music was certainly rooted in punk, the band was never afraid to experiment with other genres and styles.

In addition to their albums, The Only Ones are also known for their live performances, which were legendary for their intensity and energy. The band's live shows were known for their raw power and the way they pushed the boundaries of what punk rock could be.

The Only Ones were one of the most influential and important bands in the history of punk rock, and their unique blend of punk and classic rock continues to inspire musicians to this day. From their self-titled debut album to the experimental Even Serpents Shine and the more polished Baby's Got a Gun, The Only Ones consistently pushed the boundaries of what punk rock could be. With their intricate guitar work, catchy hooks, and powerful live shows, The Only Ones are an essential part of any music lover's collection. So, if you haven't listened to them before, give them a chance – you won't be disappointed!