Spandau Ballet made their New York debut at the Underground in 1981. The event was accompanied by a full-fledged blast of hype and a nostalgic, old-fashioned feel, complete with a London vanguard fashion show and a disco full of exotically costumed trendies. The performance was attended by many fans drawn to the band’s extravagant, ornate dress and dance music.
The band, a quintet led by Gary Kemp on guitar and synthesizer, Tony Hadley on vocals, Martin Kemp on bass, Steve Norman on guitar and bongos, and John Keeble on drums, played heavily rhythmic music with a gothic flamboyance reminiscent of early-70s progressive rock. Mr. Hadley’s Bowie-esque singing added to the melodrama, but the real impact came from the band’s rich textures and hook-filled songs. The music was heavily rhythmic, with a tramping, ominous tone, but it had the courage of its bravado and suited the costumed disguises of its followers. The audience received the performance well and was a successful start to the band’s career in New York City.
