The Chameleons, often referred to as The Chameleons UK in the United States due to a trademark issue, are an English post-punk band that gained notoriety during the 1980s. The band was originally formed in Middleton, Greater Manchester in 1981 by Mark Burgess (vocals, bass), Reg Smithies (guitar), Dave Fielding (guitar), and John Lever (drums). They became known for their atmospheric, guitar-based sound and poetic lyrics, which often reflected the bleak industrial landscape of Northern England. The band's music, although commercially under-recognized at the time, went on to influence the alternative and indie rock movements of subsequent decades.

The Chameleons released three studio albums in the 80s: "Script of the Bridge" (1983), "What Does Anything Mean? Basically" (1985), and "Strange Times" (1986), each one contributing to their cult status amongst fans of the genre. They split in 1987 but reformed in 2000 and produced an album, "Why Call It Anything" (2001), and a live album, "Strip" (2000), before ultimately dissolving again in 2003 after the departure of Lever. Since then, there have been numerous reissues and live releases showcasing their enduring legacy, like the "Tony Fletcher Walked on Water EP" and "Dreams in Celluloid: A Collection of Rare Recordings," further cementing the Chameleons' place in the pantheon of post-punk music. Despite never achieving massive mainstream success, their music continues to resonate and inspire a dedicated fan base around the world.

Genres

Gothic Rock

Shoegaze

Uk Post-punk

Related Artists

The Cure

Joy Division

Cocteau Twins

The Psychedelic Furs

The Smiths

New Order

Slowdive

Siouxsie and the Banshees

The Sound

my bloody valentine

Bauhaus

Ride

Latest Release

Tomorrow Remember Yesterday

The Chameleons

Ep - 5 Tracks - Released October 11, 2024