THIS WEEKEND THE MOUTH MAGAZINE EASTER SPECIAL WAS STAGED AT CAFÉ INDIEPENDENT IN SCUNTHORPE. HEADLINER WAS MILES HUNT, WHO READ EXTRACTS FROM HIS MEMOIR THE WONDER STUFF DIARIES ’86 – ’89 AND PERFORMED A HANDFUL OF HIS BAND’S SONGS ACOUSTICALLY. 

Originally based in Stourbridge, West Midlands, Hunt formed The Wonder Stuff in 1986. The band was signed by a major label within a year and went on to release four UK Top Twenty albums and 19 singles (17 of which were Top 40 hits). The Wonder Stuff eventually split in 1994, Hunt first forming another band (Vent 414) and then going it alone. Since then he’s recorded and toured as a solo artist, or with partner Erica Nockalls – and as part of a new version of The Wonder Stuff. His recently published book doesn’t attempt to excuse bad behaviour, poor choices or petty indulgences from back in the day; Hunt is not shy of being self-critical or, occasionally, scathing of his younger self. The story of his rise from Black Country post-punk obscurity to frontman of one of the most well-loved indie-pop bands of its time is laid out in parallel threads; contemporary journal entries and then with comment with a quarter-century of perspective. The second makes THE WONDER STUFF DIARIES ’86 – ’89 all the more engaging; poignant, even.

After soundcheck for the Easter Special we filmed a two song video session with Hunt, which we’ll publish at a later date – but here, now, this new edition of The Mouthcast features an interview recorded backstage before the show. Hunt discusses the writing of his book (the first of four planned volumes to be published over the next few years, which will bring his story right up to date), and reflects on the handful of his gigs so far which have focused on readings from it. There are also brief – but fantastic – highlights from the Easter Special. It was a warm and generous occasion, and you’ll hear a couple of readings from THE WONDER STUFF DIARIES ’86 – ’89 and terrific performances of classic album track RUBY HORSE and 1987 single UNBEARABLE…

Order a copy of THE WONDER STUFF DIARIES ’86 – ’89 book here and accompanying CD here

On Saturday 2nd May we’re featuring top-notch Sheffield four-piece HIGH HAZELS as headliners for our Bank Holiday Special. More details about this concert here… And then, on Friday 19th June, MARK MORRISS (ex- of The Bluetones) will headline our Summer Special. Further details about this show – and ticket links – coming very soon…