Little Rebellion in Lincolnshire
Charlie Harper of the UK SUBS at Rebellion—Photo ©dickslaughter.com
This gig was very special in a few different ways, which I’ll explain in a little while. The lineup was excellent—three fantastic bands for the ticket price of just £27.
The issue with living in Lincoln, or Lincolnshire for that matter, is distance. Lincolnshire is off the main circuit when it comes to tours, and though we do get big names like The Skids and The Undertones, it’s very rare that we see less commercial punk bands. I hesitate to use the term “small” when discussing the UK Subs—as we all know, they’re so well known and headline major punk festivals around the world. Yet they’re not a household name to the average person.
UK SUBS at Rebellion—Photo ©dickslaughter.com
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The upside of that, for me (but not for the promoters, Club With No Name), is that there was plenty of room in the front row. As the turnout wasn’t as strong as it should have been, I doubt they’ll play in Lincoln again.
First up was the vibrant duo Yur Mum, originally from Brazil but now based in London. Once a three-piece, they’re now down to two: Analise Kunz on vocals and bass, and Fabio Couto on drums. Formed in 2016, they’ve played over 400 gigs in 12 countries and released two albums—Road Rage and their latest, Duality. I’d briefly caught part of their set at Rebellion, where they played to a packed-out Empress Ballroom. The venue and crowd here in Lincoln were very different, but they still delivered a raw and energetic set full of powerful vocals and driving rhythms. A hard act to follow—but the next band did it, and did it well.
Destructors 82 actually only reformed in 2023, with two original members: Andrew McDonald on drums and guitarist Giz But (who also played for The Prodigy). On bass was ex–Resistance 77 member Jonny Marsh, and Chris Lovell took the mic.
From Peterborough, they first formed in 1977, split in 1979, reformed from 1980 to 1984, and have a long history of reformations in various forms. I’d surprisingly never seen them live before, and I was in for a treat. As mentioned earlier, the turnout was dismal—but that meant ringside seats for those of us who showed up.
Wow—what can I say? They were tight and tore through their set with power. Chris was everywhere—jumping off the stage, throwing himself into the front row, full of energy with an almost animalistic quality. They kept the crowd entertained with both old and new songs, including “Battle on the Streets” and “Soldier Boy.” They were excellent, and I hope they won’t be splitting up again anytime soon. If you get the chance to see them—take it.
UK SUBS at Rebellion—Photo ©dickslaughter.com
The headline band of the night needs no introduction. What I didn’t know at the time was that this would be one of the last gigs with guitarist Steve Straughan, who joined the Subs in 2016 and has toured the world with them many times. Being offered a center spot right in front of Charlie was a bonus, as I don’t usually brave the middle due to the roughness—but not so tonight.
Steve Straughan of the UK SUBS at Rebellion—Photo ©dickslaughter.com
It’s astounding to think this punk icon is in his 80s—he looks great and is proof that doing what you love keeps you young. Singing along to every word, I was in my happy place. Many years ago, my band Post Mortem played a mini-tour with the Subs. At a show in Ipswich, I remember noticing Charlie wearing white toweling socks and brothel creepers. I was 18 at the time and thought he was “getting on a bit” even then—and here we are, decades later.
UK SUBS at Rebellion—Photo ©dickslaughter.com
I’m in awe of him now. It’s a testament to his staying power and the enduring popularity of the Subs. They ripped through their set with rhythmical precision, backing Charlie’s unmistakable voice. The fans who braved the cold November Sunday left with smiles on their faces.
Charlie Harper of the UK SUBS and Cat at Rebellion—Photo ©dickslaughter.com
At the end of the night, I had a quick chat with Mr. Harper. Sadly, he didn’t remember touring with us—but it’s been a lifetime, so I forgive him. Charlie is always friendly and happy to talk, whether on the road or at Rebellion, where he can be seen chatting and having a drink with fans throughout the festival. Many people feel they know him personally because of his open, generous nature.
Charlie Harper of the UK SUBS at Rebellion—Photo ©dickslaughter.com
