Spring of 1982 found the iconic British band, Siouxsie and the Banshees, touching down in Tokyo. They weren’t just there for sightseeing; they were on a mission to bring their unique brand of post-punk to Japanese audiences with three electrifying gigs. This wasn’t just any band passing through; Siouxsie and the Banshees were at the peak of their creative power, riding high on the success of their fourth album, “Juju”, and already busy crafting their next masterpiece, “A Kiss in the Dreamhouse”.
While many of their punk contemporaries had faded or broken up, Siouxsie and the Banshees were evolving, pushing boundaries, and creating music that would go on to influence generations. A key factor in this evolution was the arrival of guitarist John McGeoch in 1980. His innovative approach to sound perfectly complemented the band’s core trio: the enigmatic vocalist Siouxsie Sioux, the stoic bassist Steven Severin, and the powerful drummer Budgie.
Siouxsie herself held McGeoch in high regard, stating, “He was my favorite guitarist of all time.” She admired his ability to translate abstract ideas into music, describing how he could capture the sound of “a horse falling off a cliff” if she asked. His creative spark was undeniable, and his contributions to the band were immense.
The band was met with enthusiastic crowds eager to experience their dark, hypnotic music. Siouxsie, with her striking stage presence and commanding vocals, captivated the audience. Her dramatic makeup and unique fashion sense further added to the mystique. Severin, the quiet anchor of the band, provided the melodic bass lines that formed the backbone of their sound. Budgie’s drumming was powerful and precise, driving the rhythm with relentless energy. And then there was McGeoch, unleashing his sonic wizardry, creating textures and soundscapes that were both haunting and exhilarating. Each night, Siouxsie and the Banshees delivered performances that were intense, passionate, and unforgettable.
