GBH

One of GBH’s earliest songs was called “No Survivors”. As the band returns to the United States celebrating their 45th Anniversary, they find themselves in rare rock and roll territory; a multi-generational act in an industry where most artists don’t last five years. The secret, according to vocalist Colin Abrahall, was set long ago: "This isn't a phase or fashion. It’s more than a lifestyle. It’s our life.”

The live show has always been the beating heart of GBH. They tour relentlessly, routinely playing over 100 shows a year, from squats to stadiums, constantly attracting new fans with their legendary blistering performance. “Some people have been coming to our shows since our first US tour in 1983, Abrahall explains. "Other people find us because of our records or reputation. Some kids just because they've seen some celebrity wearing our shirt. I suppose it's like being part of a global family where you keep meeting relatives you didn't know you had.”

“I love the small clubs", says bassist Ross Lomas, “proper punk rock.” Abrahall relates how the band got their first gig, "the owner of The Crown pub told us we could play if we rebuilt his stage. So we like people doing their own scene, like Crash Fest in San Francisco." With a laugh he quickly adds, "don't get me wrong; we like the bigger venues too." Lomas stresses the importance of the bands who tour with GBH "We're out with Slaughterhouse this time. We've had The Bronx, The Casualties, Piñata Protest. Last US tour Nis opened. Great bands. So it's not just about us. It's about friends. It's about good music."

Family. Friends. Odd words for the originators of hardcore punk; pioneers who made a fast and furious sound cited as an influence by artists across the musical spectrum, especially punk and metal.  But they’ve always been central concepts to GBH.  "Maybe we've been together so long because we were friends before we were in a band together," said Abrahall.