Revenge of the Goldfish - A Glimmering Moment in Madchester's Legacy
Manchester UK had the best music scene in the late 80s and early 90s.
The early 1990s were a vibrant time for British music, marked by the collision of indie rock, acid house, and the rapidly growing Britpop movement. Among the key players in this scene were Inspiral Carpets, a Manchester, England band whose unique blend of jangly guitars, swirling organ melodies, and heartfelt lyrics earned them a devoted fanbase. While they never achieved the commercial heights of peers like The Stone Roses or Oasis, Inspiral Carpets left an indelible mark on the Madchester sound, and their 1992 album Revenge of the Goldfish stands as a testament to their artistry.
Formed in Oldham in 1983, Inspiral Carpets began as a garage rock-inspired band. The group quickly gravitated toward the exploding indie music scene, becoming known for their Farfisa organ-heavy sound—a distinguishing feature that set them apart from their contemporaries. The classic lineup included Tom Hingley on vocals, whose rich, soulful voice became a defining element of the band's sound. Graham Lambert on guitar, a founding member and the band's driving force. Clint Boon on keyboards, whose organ melodies gave Inspiral Carpets their retro-futuristic edge. Martyn Walsh is on bass, and the late Craig Gill on drums, providing the rhythmic backbone.
Self-released singles and a growing reputation on the live circuit defined the band's early years. By the late 1980s, they’d signed to Mute Records in the UK and Elektra Records in the U.S., releasing their debut album, Life, in 1990. The Manchester scene—with its psychedelic rock influences and danceable beats—provided fertile ground for Inspiral Carpets’ rise, though their music often leaned more toward introspection than high-living.
Released in 1992, Revenge of the Goldfish was Inspiral Carpets' third studio album and featured 12 tracks that showcased their growth as musicians and songwriters. The album's title was inspired by an art installation by American artist Sandy Skoglund, whose surreal image of a goldfish suspended in midair against a blue backdrop adorned the cover.
By this point, Inspiral Carpets had refined their signature sound, blending Britpop sensibilities with elements of psychedelia and post-punk. The album's themes touched on love, loss, and existential reflection—often couched in melodies that were as infectious as poignant.
Dragging Me Down is one of the album’s standout singles. It features a driving rhythm and hypnotic organ riff, and Tom Hingley’s plaintive vocals deliver lyrics that speak to frustration and yearning. The song's catchy chorus made it a live favorite and a staple of the band's catalog. It's probably one of their most recognized songs. Despite its provocative title, Bitches Brew is more meditative than incendiary. Drawing inspiration from the jazz album of the same name by Miles Davis, "Bitches Brew" weaves intricate melodies and atmospheric textures, showcasing the band’s experimental side.
Inspiral Carpets were deeply influenced by the psychedelic rock of the 1960s, particularly by bands like The Doors and The Byrds. This influence is evident in their use of vintage keyboards, jangly guitar lines, and their penchant for blending the introspective with the surreal. The ‘Madchester’ movement also left its mark on the band, with its fusion of indie rock and dance culture shaping their rhythm-forward approach.
While Revenge of the Goldfish didn’t achieve massive commercial success, it remains a beloved album among fans and a critical piece of the 90’s Manchester music scene. Its songs have aged gracefully, offering a glimpse into a moment when Manchester’s music scene was a hotbed of creativity and innovation. Inspiral Carpets may not have broken through like some contemporaries, but their influence is undeniable. They helped pave the way for Britpop and left behind a catalog of songs that continue to resonate with listeners. Revenge of the Goldfish encapsulates their unique blend of melancholy and euphoria, making it a must-listen for fans of 1990s British music. The album offers a rewarding journey for those exploring the ‘Madchester’ era or seeking an album that balances introspection with energy. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the greatest treasures lie just beneath the surface—still waiting to be rediscovered.
In 2015, I was lucky enough to visit Manchester and explore the city's rich history—both the Industrial Revolution and the music revolution of the 1980s and early 1990s. I signed up and took a walking tour of the city’s music history, which began with The Sex Pistols and ended with Oasis. The tour guide and owner was the late Craig Gill, drummer of the Inspiral Carpets. He was knowledgeable and polite; you could tell he loved his city and its musical history. He had a real passion for Manchester, and his tour business demonstrated that. He will be missed by many. Thank you, Craig, for the tour and for all you did for your wonderful city.
-JB