V.I.P.'s - Need Somebody To Love LP (colour vinyl)

17 track comp of all of their studio recordings, remastered and pressed on Electric Blue Vinyl. Gatefold sleeve with never seen before photographs, inner sleeve w/lyrics and poster.

The VIP’s formed in 1978 while at Warwick University. Within weeks they were gigging at clubs in the Midlands, often on the same bill as THE SPECIALS. Soon they found a manager, Clive Solomon, who with Timmy Mallet (now a TV and Radio presenter) and both students at the university, financed the group’s first single the EP ‘Music For Funsters. In the summer of 1978 they built up a loyal following in London. The single was picked up by John Peel, who played it constantly on his BBC radio show through the year. The 3 track EP, featuring ‘I’m Perfect’, ‘I Believe’ and ‘Boys of the City’ was released on Clive Solomon’s own ‘Bust’ label.

In early 1980 they went into Olympic Studios to record some tracks with ex-THE ANIMALS bass player and SLADE manager Chas Chandler. The track ‘I Thought You Were My Friend’ was recorded at these sessions A few weeks later a major record deal was agreed with Gem Records/RCA and ‘Causing Complications’ came out in March. To coincide with the release the VIP’s went on tour supporting SECRET AFFAIR.

After the tour, “The Quarter Moon” was released. It received extensive airplay and was also picked as BBC Radio 1’s Record of The Week by DJ Mike Reid, plus Radio Luxembourg’s ‘Power Play’ for 2 weeks. The constant touring, recording and radio play had earned them a spot on Top of The Pops but they were suddenly told - on the afternoon that they were due to appear - that an industrial dispute had resulted in the show being cancelled. Disappointed, they continued to record and tour, this time with MADNESS, THE BEAT and DEXYS MIDNIGHT RUNNERS et al. This time Bob Seargent (of The BEAT and HAIRCUT 100 fame) was recruited to give ‘Need Somebody To Love’ that sparkle and edge. Although perhaps the most representative of the band’s sound, Top of The Pops again eluded them.