These Animal Men
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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 These Animal Men, Brighton’s energetic and provocative contributors to the Britpop era, often associated with the short-lived New Wave of New Wave movement.
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 signalled 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: Brighton, England
Active years: 1989–1998
Associated genres: Alternative rock, Britpop, New Wave of New Wave
Record labels: Le Disques De Popcor, Hi-Rise Recordings, Virgin, Hut Recordings
Members: Alexander Boag – vocals, guitar / Julian Hewings – backing vocals, guitar / Patrick Murray – bass / Steve Hussey – drums (until 1996) / Craig Warnock – keyboard (from 1996) / Rob Hague – drums (from 1996)
Formation and Early Years
Formed in Brighton in 1989 by Alexander Boag and Julian Hewings.
Quickly embraced a provocative image and sound, integrating glam and punk influences.
Gained notoriety for their drug references in lyrics and artwork, stirring media interest.
Released early demos like Are You Inexperienced? E.P. (1993), which set the tone for their brash aesthetic.
Rise to Prominence
Signed to Hut Records, an offshoot of Virgin Records, in 1993.
Released the split single "Wheelers, Dealers, Christine Keelers" with SMASH, marking their association with the New Wave of New Wave movement.
Early singles like "Speeed King" and "You're Not My Babylon" drew modest attention, bolstered by press coverage in NME.
Established a reputation as a live act with raw energy and attitude.
Commercial Success and Albums
Debut album (Come on, Join) The High Society (1994) reached No. 62 on the UK Albums Chart. It was celebrated for its bold swagger and frenetic energy.
Released the EP Too Sussed? (1994), which peaked at No. 39 in the UK, further solidifying their cult following.
Follow-up album Accident & Emergency (1997) faced challenges during production but showcased a more mature sound. Despite critical acclaim, it failed to achieve significant commercial success, charting at No. 192.
Later Activities and Legacy
Struggled to maintain momentum after the departure of drummer Steve Hussey in 1996 and the addition of Craig Warnock and Rob Hague.
Disbanded in 1998 after limited commercial returns from their second album.
Members Alexander Boag, Julian Hewings, Craig Warnock, and Rob Hague formed Mo Solid Gold, releasing the album Brand New Testament in 2001 before splitting up.
Reunited briefly in 2015 for a one-off gig at London’s Heaven, supporting the documentary Flawed is Beautiful.
Notable Facts
Credited alongside SMASH for leading the New Wave of New Wave movement, a precursor to Britpop’s explosion.
The documentary Flawed is Beautiful celebrated their legacy and influence on the Britpop scene.
Defining Lyric
"'Cause I can watch the news at ten." - — This Is the Sound of Youth (1994)
Discography
Albums:
(Come on, Join) The High Society (1994)
Accident & Emergency (1997)
EPs:
Too Sussed? (1994)
Taxi for These Animal Men (1995)
Notable Singles:
"Speeed King" (1994)
"You're Not My Babylon" (1994)
"Life Support Machine" (1997)
Essential Listening
"Speeed King" (1994): A raucous, high-energy introduction to their signature sound.
"This Is the Sound of Youth" (1994): A rebellious anthem for a generation.
"Life Support Machine" (1997): A standout from their second album, showcasing their evolution.
Why You Should Be Listening to These Animal Men Now
These Animal Men captured the reckless spirit of youth with unapologetic style and attitude. Their music stands as a bold snapshot of the transitional New Wave of New Wave era, offering a fresh perspective on the Britpop movement’s origins. Revisit their catalogue for a dose of uncompromising energy and wit.
See you on down the road.
