999

This London-based UK punk band was formed in May 1977. Dispensing with earlier names such as the Dials, the Fanatics and 48 Hours, Nick Cash (guitar vocals) was a former Kilburn and the High Roads guitarist and studied at Canterbury College of Art under Ian Dury. Cash teamed up with Guy Days (guitar), Jon Watson (bass) and Pablo Labritain (drums), who set out to establish themselves on the thriving live scene in the capital.

After releasing the fiery "I'm Alive" on their own Labritain Records in August 1977 they signed to United Artists Records. Two further singles Octobers "Nasty Nasty and January 1978's "Emergency" were equally memorable for their energetic melodies. Separates was stronger with compelling numbers such as the single "Homicide resorting to muscular choruses instead of simple speed. However Labritain was the subject of a motoring accident on the bands return from Scandinavia and was replaced by friend Ed Case. With high sales in the USA the band undertook a series of lucrative tours across the Atlantic which earned them a degree of resentment from domestic supporters. Following the return of Labritain to the fold the group signed a new contract with Radar Records eventually transferring to Polydor Records. The Biggest Prize in Sport and Concrete represented their most accomplished work. 1983's 13th Floor Madness followed as did their last studio album of the 80s Face To Face. By the end of 1985 Watson had left and was replaced by Danny Palmer with the band once more concentrating on touring in Europe and America.

During the 90s they continued to record and play popular live shows with Arturo Bassick from the Lurkers on bass.

They have also been the subject of a welter of compilations and live albums in the wake of renewed interest in punk nostalgia.

Web Site: www.nineninenine.net/

MP3

Song Title

Writer

99 Days

Cash/Days

Argue

Cash/Days

Bomb You

Cash/Days