Shriekback

Shriekback is an alternative rock band that was formed in the early 80s by Barry Andrews, formerly of XTC and The League of Gentlemen (keyboards/synthesizers/vocals), Carl Marsh, formerly of Out on Blue Six (guitars/vocals), and Dave Allen, formerly of the Gang of Four (bass). Though perhaps short lived, the group is known today for the evergreen left-of-the-dial track "Nemesis", which came out in 1985. Influenced by many styles from post-punk to dark ambient music and more. their songs also were featured in the cult thriller film 'Manhunter'.

At first, they enjoyed some success on the dance charts on their original Y Records label, releasing material such as 1983's 'Care', but the guys left for the big time on Arista Records for 1984's 'Jam Science'. Finding little success there, they switched to Island Records for the next year's breakout, 'Oil & Gold'. This album signaled a shift for the band, with Carl Marsh leaving the group and rockers Martyn Barker and Lu Edmonds joining what was now Andrews' vehicle. Indeed, Allen left the band after the followup, 'Big Night Music', came about, and Shriekback remained a collaborative around Andrews.