A Splash of Colour

The Paisley Underground was a musical and fashion movement from the late 70's that took its influence from the psychedelic era of the late 60's. For some it was a natural extension of the mod movement, many mod clothing shops in Carnaby Street started selling paisley and polka dot shirts with big floppy collars. 'A Splash of Colour' was a seminal compilation album which collected together some of the more interesting sounds of this short lived movement, it was released in 1981.

1. Just Like A Dream - Mood Six

the album kick started with this song, with it's groovy introduction. The Mood Six were formed from the remnants of mod revival bands such as the Merton Parkas and The VIPs, the two tracks on this album were their debut on vinyl but they are probably best remembered for their chart hit 'Hanging Around'.

2. I Helped Patrick McGoohan Escape - The Times

the Times, who featured the wonderful Ed Ball personified pop art music, taking influences from the Creation amongst many, eventually becoming one of the first bands signed to the record label named after this 60's band.

3. Something's Happening Here - Miles Over Matter

a minor player from the scene, and virtually nothing on the net about them.

4. Park My Car - Miles Over Matter

5. Love Letters - The Silence

6. Plastic Flowers - Mood Six

this was the mood six's biggest hit, hanging around but plastic flowers was also independently released as a single but not until 1985, and the re-recorded. The band limped on until 1987.

7. Dancing In My Mind - The High Tide

sadly not much footage exists of most of these bands, the high tide not to be confused with a prog rock band of the same name and a late sixties sea shanty singing group!

8. Keep Your Voice Down - The Earwigs

9. Mortal Dreams - The Doctor

the doctor who added his voice to the opening track, and I believe was the same doctor from Dr and the Medics!

10. Watching The World Go By - The Barracudas

easily the most famous of the bands on this compilation, a delightful surf garage sound with dress to match! not really having much in common with the rest of these bands. I have included the video of their better known 'hit' summer fun!

11. The Long Weekend - The Marble Staircase

12. Electric Blue - The High Tide

a splash of colour is of it's time and is a wonderful sampler of this period.  Definately an underground movement but was an essential cog in the mod revival.