Spandau Ballet Unearths 43-year-Old Live Version of ‘Glow‘ Ahead of New Compilation Album
spandau Ballet is offering fans a rare treat: a previously unheard live recording of their 1981 hit “Glow,” taken from a performance at the Paris Theater in London on May 8,1982.The release coincides with the upcoming compilation album, ‘Everything is Now – Vol. 1: 1978-1982,’ set to drop on Friday, October 10, via parlophone.
The unearthed track is a “funked-up” rendition of the UK Top 10 single, offering a fresh perspective on a beloved classic. It was recorded during a ‘BBC in Concert’ performance adn remained locked away in the archives for over four decades. This release provides a glimpse into the band’s early experimentation and energetic live shows.
Early Experimentation and the Birth of ‘Glow’
The song’s origins lie in guitarist Gary Kemp’s exploration of blending different musical styles. As Kemp explained, “I sat with my guitar in my bedroom, and with the sound of the fatback Band and Dr. Buzzard in my head, I ground out a groove and made an attempt to write a song that combined funk with the stark European music that we had created already. The result was ‘Glow’.”
The band quickly embraced the song’s unique groove. Kemp continued, “Steve [Norman], the most natural musician in the band, took to the congas and bongos as though he’d played them in an earlier life, and within a few days we had the song’s staccato groove hammering through our rehearsal room in London Bridge. We were desperate to record it and get it out, announcing our credentials and proving that we were at the epicentre of Soho nightlife.”
Despite its immediate appeal,”Glow” was recorded too late to be included on their 1981 debut album,’Journeys To Glory.’
‘Everything Is Now – Vol. 1: 1978-1982’ – A Deep Dive into the Band’s Origins
The nine-disc compilation promises a comprehensive look at Spandau Ballet’s formative years, encompassing their first two studio albums and a wealth of previously unreleased material. The package will also include a 44-page book featuring original photographs by Graham Smith and new commentary from all band members.
Future of Spandau Ballet Remains Uncertain
While the release of this compilation offers a nostalgic look back, the possibility of a Spandau Ballet reunion appears remote. Frontman Tony Hadley recently stated that a reunion “wouldn’t work,” revealing he hasn’t spoken to Gary Kemp, Martin Kemp, or John Keeble in eight years.
Hadley acknowledged the band’s shared history, noting both positive and challenging experiences. He expressed fondness for past collaborations but emphasized his current contentment with the creative freedom his solo career affords him. “I love the freedom I have now, the fact I can go from a bit of swing to a bit of rock. you can’t do that within the confines of a band,” he said.
Hadley’s last performance with the band was in 2017, before departing due to “circumstances beyond my control.” The remaining members briefly continued as a group, concluding their performances in 2019. Initial statements following Hadley’s exit suggested a permanent rift, but more recent comments from Gary Kemp, as reported by NME earlier this year, indicate a potential easing of tensions between the parties.
Did you know? – Spandau Ballet’s live recording of “Glow” from 1982 is being released for the first time.the track was recorded at the Paris Theatre in London.
Pro tip: – The “funked-up” version of “Glow” offers a fresh take on the original UK Top 10 hit. It was recorded during a BBC In concert performance.
Reader question: – What is included in the upcoming compilation album, ‘Everything is Now – Vol. 1: 1978-1982’? The album includes the band’s first two studio albums and unreleased material.
