"Spiral Scratch" is an EP and the debut release by English punk rock band Buzzcocks. It was recorded on 28th December 1976 and released on 29th January 1977 by the band's label, New Hormones. The EP is one of the earliest examples of punk rock released by a British band.
Buzzcocks, formed in Bolton, England in 1976 by singer-songwriter-guitarist Pete Shelley and singer-songwriter Howard Devoto, have always been known for their fusion of high-speed punk rock energy with melodic pop sensibilities. The band's dissatisfaction with mainstream rock's perceived lack of ambition in the mid-70s led them to become a pivotal part of the burgeoning punk rock scene.
"Spiral Scratch", with its four tracks - "Breakdown", "Time's Up", "Boredom", and "Friends of Mine" - is considered highly influential in the punk and indie rock genres. Notably, the song "Boredom" in this EP, is especially celebrated for its two-note guitar solo, illustrating the band’s intentional simplicity and rawness.
One significant aspect of the "Spiral Scratch" EP is that it set a precedent in the punk scene for bands releasing records on their own independent labels, highlighting the DIY ethic that was a key part of punk culture.
After the release of "Spiral Scratch", Howard Devoto left the band, making it their only recorded work with him. Despite this, Buzzcocks continued to achieve success in the punk and post-punk scenes. The "Spiral Scratch" EP remains a touchstone of their early sound and an emblem of the punk era.
