Wire are an English rock band, formed in London in October 1976 by Colin Newman (vocals, guitar), Graham Lewis (bass, vocals), Bruce Gilbert (guitar) and Robert Grey (drums). They were originally associated with the punk rock scene, appearing on The Roxy London WC2 album, and were later central to the development of post-punk, while their debut album Pink Flag was influential for hardcore punk.
Wire are considered a definitive art punk and post-punk band, due to their richly detailed and atmospheric sound and obscure lyrical themes. They steadily developed from an early noise rock style to a more complex, structured sound involving increased use of guitar effects and synthesizers (1978’s Chairs Missing and 1979’s 154). The band gained a reputation for experimenting with song arrangements throughout its career.
Also Known As
Wir
Associated Acts
Dome
Genres
Punk rock post-punk art punk experimental rock alternative rock electronic
Labels
Pinkflag Mute Harvest Warner Bros. Rough Trade
Origin
London, England
Website
Years Active
1976 1980, 1985 1992, 1999 present
Name
Wire