Go West – in concert via BBC – December 5, 1985 – Gordon Skene Sound Collection –
Go West in concert. Continuing our dive into the ’80 for a look back to see what we’ve missed, what was embedded in our psyche’s and what we’re still listening to, all these years later.
In 1982, Cox and Drummie formed the band Go West, with Cox as lead singer and Drummie on guitar and backing vocals. Go West had a publishing deal and possessed a portastudio, but lacked a band or recording company. Cox and Drummie decided, with support from John Glover, their manager, to find a musical producer, and record just two of their songs. The tracks “We Close Our Eyes” and “Call Me” found Go West landing a recording contract with Chrysalis Records.
Go West’s debut single, “We Close Our Eyes”, was released in 1985 and reached No. 5 on the UK Singles Chart, No. 5 on the US Dance Club Play chart and No. 41 on the Billboard Hot 100. The video for the song, directed by Godley & Creme, became an early favorite on MTV.[6] “We Close Our Eyes” would prove to be the band’s highest-placed UK single, and their only appearance in the UK Singles Chart’s top ten.
The duo’s eponymous debut album was released in 1985. It included “We Close Our Eyes” and “Call Me” as well as “Don’t Look Down”, which served as the prequel to what would be their first top 40 hit in the US. The album peaked at no. 8 in the United Kingdom.
Bangs and Crashes, an album of remixes, B-sides and live tracks, was released in 1986, and included the track “One Way Street” which was part of the Rocky IV soundtrack.
Go West were voted “Best Newcomer” at the 1986 Brit Awards.
Okay – now you know, if you didn’t already – hit the play button and head back to the 80s for the next half-hour or so.
