Powder
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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 Powder, the short-lived but vibrant Britpop act whose energetic singles left a mark despite their brief time on the scene.
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: 1994–1996
Associated genres: Britpop
Record labels: Parkway Records
Members: Pearl Lowe – vocals / Mark Thomas – guitar / Tim McTighe – bass / James Walden – drums
Formation and Early Years
Powder was formed in 1994, during the height of the Britpop explosion.
Fronted by the charismatic Pearl Lowe, the lineup included Mark Thomas on guitar, Tim McTighe on bass, and James Walden on drums.
Signed to Parkway Records, they became the label's first act, largely due to the efforts of music PR agents John Best and Phill Savidge.
Their debut single, "20th Century Gods," released in 1995, sold out its initial pressing of 1,500 copies within two days and earned acclaim as Select magazine's Single of the Month.
Rise to Prominence
Powder's second single, "Afrodisiac," released in June 1995, became their most notable track, reaching No. 72 on the UK Singles Chart.
The band gained further attention with performances at key music festivals and an appearance on Britpop Now, a BBC music special celebrating the genre.
Their bold, energetic sound and visual style captured the mid-'90s Britpop zeitgeist.
Commercial Success and Albums
Powder's third and final single, "Deep Fried," was released in November 1995 and peaked at No. 82 on the UK Singles Chart.
Although they didn’t release a full studio album during their active years, a compilation of their singles and B-sides, MCMXCV, was issued posthumously in Japan in 1997.
Later Activities and Legacy
The band officially disbanded in 1996, citing creative differences. Lowe's pregnancy was a contributing factor to their hiatus.
Pearl Lowe later fronted the band Lodger and pursued a solo career.
Guitarist Mark Thomas became a member of the hard rock band Black Spiders.
Drummer James Walden joined the psychedelic/rock band The Joydanaires.
Notable Facts
First Signing: Powder was Parkway Records' first-ever signing, chosen for their edgy sound and charismatic frontwoman.
TV Spotlight: The band performed on the iconic BBC show Britpop Now, cementing their place in the movement's cultural history.
Posthumous Compilation: Their music lives on through MCMXCV, released in Japan in 1997, keeping their work available to dedicated fans.
Defining Lyric
"So far gone" — "Afrodisiac"
Discography
20th Century Gods / "Dizgo Girl" (1995)
Afrodisiac / "Shave Me" / "Fever" (1995) – UK No. 72
Deep Fried / "Memo From Turner" / "Sold Out" (1995) – UK No. 82
Essential Listening
"Afrodisiac" (1995): A fiery, guitar-driven anthem that encapsulates the rebellious energy of Britpop.
"20th Century Gods" (1995): Their explosive debut, showcasing Lowe's commanding vocals and the band’s raw sound.
"Deep Fried" (1995): Their final single, blending Britpop swagger with lyrical introspection.
Why You Should Be Listening to Powder Now
Powder may have had a short-lived career, but their music remains a time capsule of Britpop’s vibrant era. Their singles capture the youthful defiance and creativity that made the genre so compelling. Revisit their work for a taste of the sound and attitude that defined the mid-'90s.
See you on down the road.
