Lush
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 Lush, the London band whose ethereal soundscapes and razor-sharp lyrics made them one of the pioneers of shoegaze, later evolving into a Britpop favorite.
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: London, England
Active years: 1987–1996, 2015–2016
Associated genres: Shoegaze, dream pop, Britpop, noise pop, alternative rock
Record labels: 4AD, Reprise, Edamame
Members: Miki Berenyi – guitar, vocals / Emma Anderson – guitar, vocals / Steve Rippon – bass (1987–1992) / Phil King – bass (1992–1996, 2015–2016) / Chris Acland – drums, percussion (1987–1996; died 1996) / Justin Welch – drums (2015–2016)
Formation and Early Years
Formed in 1987 in London by Miki Berenyi, Emma Anderson, Chris Acland, and Steve Rippon.
Originally called The Baby Machines, they drew inspiration from punk fanzines and their love of Cocteau Twins, Siouxsie and the Banshees, and The Byrds.
Signed to 4AD in 1989, releasing the acclaimed mini-album Scar, which established their reputation as shoegaze innovators.
Rise to Prominence
Released a string of successful EPs, including Mad Love (1990) and Sweetness and Light (1990), blending dream pop melodies with ethereal shoegaze textures.
Their debut album, Spooky (1992), reached No. 7 on the UK Albums Chart, with standout tracks like “For Love” and “Superblast!”.
Gained further acclaim with the albums Split (1994) and Lovelife (1996), the latter embracing a more Britpop-oriented sound.
Commercial Success and Albums
Lovelife (1996) became their most commercially successful album, spawning hits like “Ladykillers,” “Single Girl,” and “500 (Shake Baby Shake).”
Noted for their vibrant live performances, including a spot on the 1992 Lollapalooza tour alongside Jane’s Addiction and the Red Hot Chili Peppers.
Reunited in 2015, releasing the Blind Spot EP, and performed sold-out shows before disbanding again in 2016.
Later Activities and Legacy
The tragic suicide of drummer Chris Acland in 1996 led to their initial breakup, though they remain highly regarded as key figures in both shoegaze and Britpop.
Miki Berenyi went on to publish a memoir, Fingers Crossed, chronicling her time in Lush and her personal journey.
Emma Anderson pursued solo projects and recently released her debut solo album, Pearlies (2023).
The band’s music continues to influence new generations of dream pop and shoegaze artists.
Notable Facts
Gala (1990), their compilation of early EPs, became a cult classic in the US and Japan, building their international fanbase.
The single “Ladykillers” was one of the sharpest critiques of Britpop's “lad culture.”
Lush were one of the first bands to be described as "shoegaze," a term that became synonymous with their early sound.
Defining Lyric
"So I say "Hello" and I try to be nice" – “Ladykillers”
Discography
Spooky (1992)
Split (1994)
Lovelife (1996)
Blind Spot (EP, 2016)
Essential Listening
“Ladykillers” – Their Britpop anthem, taking aim at male egos with sharp wit and infectious energy.
“For Love” – A dreamy shoegaze standout from Spooky.
“De-Luxe” – A lush, shimmering track that exemplifies their early sound.
Why You Should Be Listening to Lush Now
Lush’s ability to evolve from shoegaze pioneers to Britpop contenders while maintaining their creative integrity makes their music as compelling today as it was in the 1990s. Whether you're rediscovering their hits or exploring their deeper cuts, Lush remains a timeless band.
See you on down the road.
