Originally formed in mid 1976 Chelsea (initially called LSD) fragmented later that year when Billy Idol, Tony James and John Towe left to form Generation X. But founder member, Gene October wasn't about to give up. By February 1977 he had a brand new line up and was once again playing the London Punk Circuit supporting such legends as The Clash, The Cortinas and Sham 69. Later that year Chelsea released their debut 45 single 'Right to Work,' which was quickly followed by the first of three Radio 1 Peel sessions. By December that year the line up had changed once again and Chelsea had become a five piece. 1978 saw the band busier than ever as they treated ever-growing crowds to their distinctive 'angry young man' punk style, which was to be one of the biggest influences on the second wave punk movement of the 80s. The release of Chelsea's first (self titled) album in 1979 lead to a tour with the Dickies, another Peel session and an appearance on BBC2's Old Grey Whistle Test. By now Chelsea's cult status was affirmed and when a new generation of young disillusioned teenagers embraced the raw power of street punk in the early eighties Chelsea were once again at the forefront of the scene. Shot in 1984 at Blackpool's notorious Bier Keller, by the legendary Jettisoundz video crew, the footage contained on this film captures not only the harsh yet melodic energy that went into Chelsea's live performances but also demonstrates exactly why Gene October became the punk Icon he remains today. A rare classic of punk history. www.cherryred.co.uk

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