Red Set: A History of Gang of Four

In 1976, two young British Fine Arts students traveled to New York on a university grant and stayed with one of the city's pioneering punk journalists. This trip inspired the formation of Gang of Four, blending interviews with the band with newspaper articles and record reviews. Red Set is the definitive history of the band.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 432 pages
Publication date: 17 May 2018
Publisher: Watkins Media

In the autumn of 1976, two young British Fine Arts students embarked on an unexpected journey to New York. Their university grant intended for scholarly pursuits took a detour when they decided to stay with one of the city's pioneering punk journalists. During the day, they immersed themselves in the world of art at the Museum of Modern Art, while the nights were spent in the heart of the punk scene at CBGBs. It was during this transformative experience that the band Gang of Four emerged.

Blending revelations from in-depth interviews conducted by the author with snippets from newspaper articles and record reviews, Jim Dooley paints a vivid portrait of Gang of Four as they remember it. Spanning their days at art school, countless tours, albums, and reunions, Red Set emerges as the definitive history of one of Britain's greatest and most influential bands.

The story unfolds through the eyes of the band members, who share their personal anecdotes and insights into the formation, evolution, and impact of Gang of Four. From the early days of their musical journey to their rise to fame and the challenges they faced along the way, the book offers a comprehensive account of the band's journey.

Through their music, Gang of Four challenged societal norms, addressed political issues, and inspired a generation of artists. Their innovative sound, characterized by a fusion of punk, jazz, and avant-garde elements, pushed the boundaries of what was considered acceptable in the music industry. Their influence can be heard in the works of countless musicians and bands who followed in their footsteps.

Red Set not only chronicles the history of Gang of Four but also delves into the cultural and political context of the 1970s, a time of immense change and rebellion. The band's music resonated with the youth who were fed up with the status quo and sought a new way of expressing themselves. Their lyrics, often political and socially conscious, spoke directly to the concerns of their audience and helped shape the zeitgeist of the era.

The book also features rare photographs, concert posters, and memorabilia, providing a visual glimpse into the world of Gang of Four. These artifacts add depth and authenticity to the narrative, allowing readers to immerse themselves even further in the band's story.

In conclusion, Red Set: The Story of Gang of Four is a must-read for music enthusiasts, fans of punk rock, and anyone interested in the history of British music. It is a captivating and informative journey that sheds light on the band's remarkable journey and their lasting impact on the music industry.

Weight: 400g
Dimension: 126 x 195 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781912248032