Turtlehead

Originating in Scotland, Turtlehead supply fresh endurance to the punk rock revival circuit. Guitarist Dave McIntosh, bassist Paul Bourne, drummer Robert Francis, and vocalist Brian Cooper formed the driving force behind this energetic Scottish unit. The group began operations in 1994 and, once their permanent lineup was complete, moved forward with their first demo recording. The resulting tape High Flats attracted press interest and soon led to an initial appearance on a Scottish radio broadcast. In April 1996, after signing with the Swedish label Bad Taste Records, Turtlehead released their debut single. Strong sales of the single opened the door to a full studio album. Following the four-track EP Go, the long-player Back Slapping Praise from Back Stabbing Men reached stores by the close of that year and earned widespread acclaim in both Scotland and Sweden. Throughout 1997 the musicians performed dozens of concerts across Europe, sharing bills with Millencolin, Voodoo Glow Skulls, and 3 Colours Red. After another demanding period of road work, they returned to the studio in early 1998 to begin work on their second album. I Preferred Their Earlier Stuff appeared late in 1998, reinforcing the band’s continuing popularity and support among punk rock listeners throughout Europe. In 2000 Turtlehead launched their first North American tour, scheduling numerous shows in Canada. The next year they completed an extensive European trek alongside Digger; once that run concluded, the members came home and began preparations for their inaugural U.S. tour.