The Dodgems

In the songs performed by the Dodgems, a punk outfit from late-'70s Brighton, England, the intricacies of contemporary politics found expression, yet a straightforward style defined their sound overall. Drummer Charlie Zuber remarked, "We have been called political and we do have strong opinions about things," adding, "But we have to keep the message fairly simple because the music's so loud." The group, which Gary Turner—serving as vocalist and bassist—conceived, came together in 1978 under the name Jet-Slag. Early members included guitarist and vocalist Doug Potter along with lead guitarist and vocalist Dave Owen, before keyboardist Paul Birchall joined after responding to a classified advertisement. Their intense performances led to a rapid conclusion to their live career almost immediately upon taking the stage. Despite recognition from the prominent British disc jockey and producer John Peel, who featured them multiple times on his program, the Dodgems ceased operations after just twelve months. In 1980, Gary Turner made a short-lived return alongside the Piranhas.