Buzzcocks Members, Gear & Sound
English punk band
Members
Select a Buzzcocks band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Buzzcocks are a seminal English punk rock band hailing from Bolton, England, formed in 1976. Known for their catchy melodies and incisive lyrics, the band initially consisted of Pete Shelley (vocals, guitar), Howard Devoto (vocals), Steve Diggle (guitar, vocals), John Maher (drums), and Steve Garvey (bass). Their music blends elements of punk rock, power pop, and post-punk, making them pioneers in the British punk scene. Buzzcocks helped define the late '70s punk era with their influential albums and energetic live performances.
How to Sound Like Buzzcocks
Buzzcocks' sound is characterized by energetic, jangly guitar riffs and punchy rhythms, often delivered with a raw, yet melodic edge. The band's use of Gibson Les Paul and Gibson Marauder guitars through Marshall amplifiers contributes to their vibrant and gritty tonal palette. This setup allows for a mix of clarity and overdrive, producing a sound that's both aggressive and hook-laden. The driving bass lines and straightforward drum patterns further enhance their high-energy, pop-punk aesthetic, making their music instantly recognizable and widely influential.
Discography
Another Music In A Different Kitchen
1978
Love Bites
1978
Time's Up
1978
A Different Kind Of Tension
1979
Singles Going Steady
1979
The 1991 Demo Album (Expanded Edition)
1991
Operators Manual (Buzzcocks Best)
1991
Entertaining Friends (Live At The Hammersmith Odeon, March 1979)
1992
Trade Test Transmissions (Bonus Track Edition)
1993
Ever Fallen In Love? Buzzcocks Finest
1996
All Set
1996
Chronology
1997
Modern (Expanded Edition)
1999
Buzzocks
2003
Buzzcocks (Expanded Edition)
2003
Inventory
2003
Flat-Pack Philosophy (Expanded Edition)
2006
Encore Du Pain
2007
French
2007
30: Live In London
2008
Buzzcocks Live!
2010
A Different Compilation
2011
The Way (Expanded Edition)
2014
Late For The Train: Live And In Session 1989-2016
2021
Sonics In The Soul
2022
Get the Buzzcocks Sound
Want to sound like Buzzcocks? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.