The Damned's 50-year journey is a testament to their unwavering commitment to creative expression and chaos. As the band's sole constant member, Dave Vanian reflects on the ebb and flow of their history, which has seen them navigate punk, goth, and everything in between.
"We wouldn't still be playing if we'd got stinking rich," Vanian admits, highlighting the importance of staying true to their artistic vision. For Captain Sensible and Rat Scabies, the band's dynamic has always been about blending diverse influences – from poppy sensibilities to darker, more theatrical elements. This melting pot has led to some of the most iconic songs in their discography, such as "New Rose" and "Cement Heads."
Throughout their career, the Damned have experienced their share of break-ups, lineup changes, and personal conflicts. Scabies's departure in 1977, followed by his eventual return in 2022, has been a significant factor in shaping the band's trajectory. The tensions between the three core members – Vanian, Sensible, and Scabies – have often been palpable, with each individual bringing their unique personality to the table.
"Each member was almost a frontman in themselves," Vanian notes, acknowledging the importance of compromise within the band. With their recent reunion, the Damned are once again united, releasing new music and gearing up for a sold-out Wembley Arena gig.
Their forthcoming album, "Not Like Everybody Else," is a love letter to 60s garage bands, featuring covers of songs that have been instrumental in shaping the band's sound. This project not only serves as a tribute to their influences but also represents a new chapter in the Damned's legacy.
"We went on a musical adventure," Sensible recalls, highlighting the importance of staying true to their artistic vision. For Scabies, the experience has been about embracing the chaos and unpredictability that defined punk rock in its early days.
As the Damned continue to tour and release new music, they are now bigger than ever, with their recent albums achieving unprecedented chart success. The band's reunion is a testament to the enduring power of their music, which continues to inspire new generations of fans.
"We're all knocking on," Scabies says wistfully, hinting at the possibility of future tours or even retirement. For Sensible and Vanian, the decision to continue playing is straightforward: as long as they can still deliver the energy and passion that has driven them for decades.
"You'll know it's time for me to quit when I start leaning on the mic to sing Sinatra songs," Vanian jokes, emphasizing his commitment to staying true to himself and the music he loves. The Damned may have come a long way since their early days as punks, but their spirit remains unchanged – a constant reminder of the power of creative expression and the enduring appeal of their unique sound.
"We wouldn't still be playing if we'd got stinking rich," Vanian admits, highlighting the importance of staying true to their artistic vision. For Captain Sensible and Rat Scabies, the band's dynamic has always been about blending diverse influences – from poppy sensibilities to darker, more theatrical elements. This melting pot has led to some of the most iconic songs in their discography, such as "New Rose" and "Cement Heads."
Throughout their career, the Damned have experienced their share of break-ups, lineup changes, and personal conflicts. Scabies's departure in 1977, followed by his eventual return in 2022, has been a significant factor in shaping the band's trajectory. The tensions between the three core members – Vanian, Sensible, and Scabies – have often been palpable, with each individual bringing their unique personality to the table.
"Each member was almost a frontman in themselves," Vanian notes, acknowledging the importance of compromise within the band. With their recent reunion, the Damned are once again united, releasing new music and gearing up for a sold-out Wembley Arena gig.
Their forthcoming album, "Not Like Everybody Else," is a love letter to 60s garage bands, featuring covers of songs that have been instrumental in shaping the band's sound. This project not only serves as a tribute to their influences but also represents a new chapter in the Damned's legacy.
"We went on a musical adventure," Sensible recalls, highlighting the importance of staying true to their artistic vision. For Scabies, the experience has been about embracing the chaos and unpredictability that defined punk rock in its early days.
As the Damned continue to tour and release new music, they are now bigger than ever, with their recent albums achieving unprecedented chart success. The band's reunion is a testament to the enduring power of their music, which continues to inspire new generations of fans.
"We're all knocking on," Scabies says wistfully, hinting at the possibility of future tours or even retirement. For Sensible and Vanian, the decision to continue playing is straightforward: as long as they can still deliver the energy and passion that has driven them for decades.
"You'll know it's time for me to quit when I start leaning on the mic to sing Sinatra songs," Vanian jokes, emphasizing his commitment to staying true to himself and the music he loves. The Damned may have come a long way since their early days as punks, but their spirit remains unchanged – a constant reminder of the power of creative expression and the enduring appeal of their unique sound.
<br>
<br>
<br>
that reunion was a game changer for them
. But can we talk about how crazy it's been for them? Like, Scabies was out for ages, and now he's back, which is wild 
. And Vanian's all like "we wouldn't be here if we got rich" but I'm not buying that 
.
But what about their other influences, you know, the whole punk and goth thing? Are they gonna leave those parts behind or just blend them in like usual? 
. I mean, I'm sure they've got a few more years left in them... or do they? 
i mean who would've thought they'd still be rocking out after all these yrs? dave vanian's dedication to his art is truly inspiring 
but at the same time it's wild that they've had so many lineup changes & personal conflicts