To say punk-rock aficionado’s, The Zips are a uniquely transcending band would be an understatement as their creative radar seems to have embedded itself amongst the pulse of the people, rising and falling throughout the unfolding years, essentially placing their musical expression exactly where it needs to be directed, within a vastly complex fluctuating societal landscape where the sense of urgency amongst the people to project justice and truth is ceaseless, carrying the spirit of the band ever forward to carve a deeply sincere impression into the hearts and minds of all who embrace The Zips music.
From the birth of punk in the 70’s, The Zips are primarily one of the first punk-rock outfits to come out of the impulsively edgy, Glasgow city, embossing their name into the narrative of punk rock history as one of the most authentic socio-political bands who has etched an indelible mark with their humanity driven, punchy, confrontational music.
The Zips first release, limited edition singles are highly sought after, little did they realise how their D.I.Y ethos would provide them with such an unwavering longevity of interest, a resolute, do-it-yourself approach that they still firmly affix to this day, continuously making their release material highly distinctive and genuine in its collaborative intricates, from artwork to production, studio location to collective folds within the punk community.
I had the undivided attention and pleasure of spending time with lead protagonist, Jon Zip McNeil for a, soon to be published, detailed interview for Louderthanwar UK entertainments Magazine/Website before the album launch show at the bands most celebrated Glasgow venue, McChuills, a venue he referred to as, The Zips HQ.
Certainly, the band feels most content amongst their devoted Glasgow tribe, an undisputed zenith in conjuring atmosphere and utterly devoted appreciation towards the band’s music which was indisputably demonstrated throughout the night as it emerged. I was struck by Jon’s attentive, creatively passionate and caring nature, his conversation flowed with heart, in fine detail about the construction of their 4th studio album titled HUH!? Unconditionally attentive in showing unwavering support of every facet within the craftmanship of the album’s creation, making sure to cover each and every inspiration of place and person who has contributed to the album’s completion.
I felt inspired by Jon’s passion and enthusiasm for being out on the road, traveling across Europe with his comrades and mentioning his fondness of Berlin, a city where they recorded part of their current album, between there and Glasgow’s Barrhead! For more nuanced detail please keep an eye over on Louder for this supremely fascinating interview with Jon in the coming weeks ahead.
The exceptionally talented local artist, Stephen Scott has provided a powerful eye-catching artwork of one lone figure standing head-on before a military tank, an emotion stirring image of defiance and determination, The Zips have stuck to retro style within the inlay cover and actual CD pressing is a take on a vinyl pressing, making the album look, feel and sound tailored, original and bona fide in nature. As a photographer I was completely in my element capturing the raw energy of the people, McChuills was absolutely rammed and the intoxicating atmosphere of the night was electric making me came away with a mound of intimately intense people shots.
The Zips where on their best form, super charged with ferocity throughout an unremitted projection of the new album, hurtling through their songs at heart pounding pace from start to finish. Their new album material is exceptionally strong, rife with infectious hooks, burly rumbling rock n’ roll baselines and lyrics that pack a mean punch. The Zips always have a powerful narrative to tell within their music, always pushing the boundaries with their vehement delivery and sharp musical intellect, whether the songs are played stripped down or in full construct.
The band then proceeded in taking special requests from the eager, high octane audience. On the night the band had a collecting can for Bread Over Bombs, a charity who assist local food banks, in the end the generosity of the people contributed £65 on the night, all of which will be delivered to a food bank in the area. This was by far one of the best, most memorable punk nights I have attended in a long time. If you wish to view the entire batch of photos from this event night please click the following Gobophotography/Revel Rousers link –
https://www.facebook.com/pg/GobophotographyGlasgow/photos/?tab=album&album_id=1651198168350431
If you wish to lay heart and mind on the new album it is available from, Love Music record shop in Glasgow, you can also order it online through the Love Music website, via EBay, All Ages Records in London, or just simply private message Jonzip direct.
Keep up to date with the legends of punk on the links below to follow their forthcoming creative endeavours and up-and-coming tour dates.
A Band Not To Be Missed Live!
https://www.facebook.com/thezipsuk/
Revel Rousers 
Excellent stuff Miff. 🎶❤️ If you’re around the west end 2mro 3rd November check out my sons band The plastic youth in Oran mor @ 2.30. Not punk but a great band. 👍🎶
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