Defining post-punk is no easy task. While punk was defined by a raw, rebellious simplicity, post-punk (1978-1986) expanded into a diverse array of sounds and ideas. It maintained punk’s independent spirit but embraced experimentation, incorporating influences from various musical and cultural traditions, resulting in a movement far more eclectic and fragmented than its predecessor.

At its core, post-punk broke away from traditional rock structures, blending genres like industrial, goth, and punk-funk with emerging dance music cultures. This era’s spirit of innovation and defiance against musical norms continues to inspire, making post-punk a pivotal moment in music history that defies easy categorization.

Postpunk Theory - Alpha α is a meticulously curated compilation by the legendary Tony Thorpe, known for his work with The Moody Boys, 400 Blows, and The KLF. These classic tracks were played at parties by Thorpe at the time, making them his personal classics. The compilation features 16 rare and sought-after tracks from the post-punk era, including works by Mark Stewart and The Maffia, Basement 5, 23 Skidoo, African Headcharge, and more.

Growing up in a vibrant musical environment in South London, Thorpe was deeply influenced by the eclectic sounds around him, from jazz-funk to Brit-Funk, and later, the post-punk records he discovered. As Thorpe recalls, "Post-punk was a mishmash of different cultures and ideas. Out of post-punk came dance music culture. That period was the most creative time because the culture was in its experimental phase." This compilation captures that innovative spirit, offering a glimpse into the era that shaped Thorpe’s musical journey.

The album comes as a limited 2xLP set, accompanied by an extensive 40-page fanzine. The fanzine, written by Matt Annis (Join The Future), dives deep into the post-punk movement, offering insight and context enriched with striking photographs by Simon Pyke and Ian Brodie.

What's on the record ?

Side A

1. Basement 5 - Silicon Chip 05:14 (UK 1980)
2. Disconnexion - Bali Ha'i (US Discomix) 05:15 (UK 1982)
3. A Certain Ratio - Shake Up 03:15 (UK 1980)
4. 23 Skidoo - Language 05:38 (UK 1984)

Side B

1. PIL - Home Is Where The Heart Is 07:35 (UK 1981)
2. Mark Stewart and The Maffia - Jerusalem 03:43 (UK 1982)
3. The Unknown Cases - Masimbabele (The Original Version) 05:51 (DE 1983)
4. Allez Allez - She’s Stirring Up 03:40 (BE 1981)

Side C

1. Animal Magic - Standard Man 03:49 (UK 1982)
2. Lifetones - Distance No Object 06:43 (UK 1983)
3. Snakefinger - I Gave Myself To You 04:41 (UK 1986)
4. Startled Insects - Overzoom 05:35 (UK 1984)

Side D

1. Maximum Joy - Silent Street / Silent Dub 07:53 (UK 1981)
2. African Headcharge - Throw It Away 03:36 (UK 1985)
3. EP-4 - 04:42 (Japan 1983)
4. 400 Blows - Declaration Of Intent 06:07 (UK 1984)

What's inside the fanzine?

1. Defining the post-punk movement through the experiences of Tony Thorpe, 400 Blows member and PPT curator.

2. Exploring the role of fanzines in post-punk culture, with a focus on Rough Trade.
Overview of 400 Blows' "Declaration of Intent".

3. Lifetones' contribution to post-punk in "For a Reason".

4. Analysis of Public Image Ltd's "This is What You Want... This is What You Get".

5. Dennis Morris discusses his photography and role in Basement 5.

6. Post-punk producer Adrian Sherwood on his early career, African Head Charge, and working with Dennis Bovell.

7. Tribute to post-punk icon Mark Stewart, with words shared by him before his passing.
Dick O'Dell recounts his journey with Y Records and the Disconnection project.

8. Spotlight on Animal Magic's "Standard Man".

9. A look at Startled Insects' "Buzzin’ Flies".

10. Maximum Joy's "Do It Today" in focus.

11. A Certain Ratio's "Up in Downsville".

12. 23 Skidoo's impact with "Tearing Up The Plans," plus Cabaret Voltaire and controlling production.

13. Examination of Snakefinger's "Manual of Errors".

14. Exploring Kyoto's no-wave band EP-4.

15. Insight into Allez Allez's "Flesh and Blood".

16. The Unknown Cases' unique style.

17. Tony Thorpe highlights his favorite 21st-century post-punk artists.

This release is a must-have for collectors, enthusiasts, and anyone interested in the revolutionary sounds of the post-punk era.

Stay tuned for further details from Musique Pour La Danse & Mental Groove Records.