Dodgy
Pressing Play
Hello you. Make a cup of tea, put a record on. Welcome to The A to Z of Britpop, your introduction to the bands, music, and characters that defined the most exciting genre of the 1990s. In this article, we introduce Dodgy, purveyors of summery anthems and Britpop’s feel-good soundtrack. With their infectious melodies and optimistic lyrics, they became a cornerstone of the era’s festival circuit and radio waves.
Britpop was built on personalities, fierce rivalries, soundbites, and, of course, the music that defined a decade. It captured the restless energy of the country and signaled a wave of optimism across the UK that had been missing for years.
Each entry in this series is a fact file, giving you the key details: who they were, where they came from, and what they made. It’s the perfect starting point for revisiting the era if you were there or figuring out why your mum or dad keeps going on about it.
Overview
Originated in: Hounslow, England
Active years: 1990–present
Associated genres: Britpop, rock, punk-pop
Record labels: A&M, Bostin, Strikeback, Cherry Red
Members: Nigel Clark (vocals, bass) / Mathew Priest (drums) / Andy Miller (guitar)
Formation and Early Years
Formed in 1990 by Nigel Clark, Mathew Priest, and Andy Miller after relocating from Worcestershire to London.
Built a grassroots following through an eight-month residency at a wine bar in Kingston Upon Thames.
Signed with A&M Records in 1991 and debuted with The Dodgy Album in 1993, produced by Ian Broudie of The Lightning Seeds.
Rise to Prominence
Homegrown (1994) propelled them to wider recognition, featuring the sunny anthem "Staying Out for the Summer".
Their breakout album, Free Peace Sweet (1996), reached No. 7 on the UK Albums Chart, powered by hits like "Good Enough" and "If You're Thinking of Me".
They performed for social causes, supporting War Child and playing in Sarajevo after the siege was lifted.
Commercial Success and Albums
Free Peace Sweet (1996) sold over 400,000 copies and was certified Platinum in the UK.
Known for their festival-friendly sound, Dodgy became staples of the Britpop live circuit in the mid-90s.
After a hiatus and lineup changes, the band reunited in 2007, releasing Stand Upright in a Cool Place (2012) and What Are We Fighting For (2016) to critical acclaim.
Later Activities and Legacy
Nigel Clark pursued solo projects, releasing albums like 21st Century Man (2006) and Make Believe Love (2020).
Dodgy continued to tour and perform at festivals, earning praise for their enduring upbeat sound.
Their music, described as “infectious, goofy punk-pop” by AllMusic, has stood the test of time as quintessential Britpop.
Notable Facts
The band is celebrated for their support of social causes, including playing for Crisis and War Child.
Dodgy were among the first UK acts to perform in Sarajevo after the siege, highlighting their humanitarian spirit.
Their hit "Good Enough" remains one of Britpop’s defining tracks, capturing the optimism of the era.
Defining Lyric
"If it’s good enough for you" - – "Good Enough"
Discography
Studio Albums
The Dodgy Album (1993)
Homegrown (1994)
Free Peace Sweet (1996)
Real Estate (2001)
Stand Upright in a Cool Place (2012)
What Are We Fighting For (2016)
Essential Listening
"Good Enough" (1996): Their biggest hit, a jubilant anthem of acceptance and simplicity.
"Staying Out for the Summer" (1994): The perfect Britpop track for lazy sunny days.
"If You’re Thinking of Me" (1996): A heartfelt ballad showcasing their softer side.
Why You Should Be Listening to Dodgy Now
Dodgy’s music is a reminder of Britpop’s carefree spirit and sun-drenched optimism. Their songs blend melodic hooks with heartfelt lyrics, creating timeless tracks that still resonate today. Whether you’re reminiscing about the 90s or discovering them anew, Dodgy are always “good enough.”
See you on down the road.
