When punk hit a recession-ridden U.K. in 1975-'76, using a rudimentary version of rock 'n' roll as a platform to scream obscenities and threaten to smash the state, it was enough to ignite outrage across the land. And then, before your grandfather could curse "They should bring back military service," the movement had largely imploded. But its repercussions were far-reaching, inspiring another wave of music and the rise of independent labels such as Mute, Beggars Banquet and Factory.
Foremost among these was Rough Trade, who have put together this compilation, "Rough Trade Shops: Post Punk 01." They opened a shop in 1977, followed by a label and a distribution service specializing in the music of this nebulous movement, which was later labeled "post-punk," a term impossible to define. Although certain patterns can be detected (e.g. greater musical proficiency and a wider sweep of subject matter, more articulately expressed), musically it was wide open.
Even bands as politicized and engaging as The Au-Pairs or The Fall were basically refining the rock 'n' roll blueprint, whereas 23 Skidoo, P.I.L., The Slits, etc. were eagerly taking inspiration from reggae, funk and other black musical forms -- an approach that more accurately reflected the reality of multiracial Britain.