Magazine

The Profile

Magazine are a British post-punk band formed in Manchester in 1977 by Howard Devoto after leaving Buzzcocks. Pioneers of the early new wave, they blended angular guitars, eloquent lyrics, and synth-driven textures across albums like Real Life, Secondhand Daylight, and The Correct Use of Soap. They reformed in 2009 and released No Thyself in 2011.

Key members include Howard Devoto (vocals), John McGeoch (guitar), Dave Formula (keyboards), Barry Adamson (bass), and John Doyle (drums). McGeoch later joined Siouxsie and the Banshees; Adamson became a founding Bad Seeds member; Formula worked with Visage; Devoto later formed Luxuria. Signature tracks include Shot by Both Sides and A Song From Under the Floorboards.

Three DeBaser reviews revisit Magazine’s role in early British new wave and their shift from punk toward a more artful sound. Highlights include the live punch of Play, the crafted pop and nervy textures of Real Life, and the stylish breadth of The Correct Use of Soap. Reviewers praise Devoto’s lyrics, Formula’s synth work, and McGeoch’s guitar. Overall tone: appreciative, with measured critiques.