Altered Images

Formed in Glasgow in 1979 around singer Clare Grogan, Altered Images emerged in the wake of British post‑punk before shifting their songwriting toward a more pop‑oriented, nervy and melodic new wave. First noticed after supporting Siouxsie and the Banshees and later championed by John Peel, Altered Images recorded several radio sessions and signed to Epic. The band became known for short songs, angular guitars, a strong sense of chorus and a clear vocal that contrasted with their earlier tension. Happy Birthday (1981), largely produced by Steven Severin with the title track shaped by Martin Rushent, established this aesthetic pivot. Pinky Blue (1982) pushed further into pop and dance territory, while Bite (1983), made with Mike Chapman and Tony Visconti, continued the move toward a more direct formula. The group split the same year but resurfaced in phases under Clare Grogan’s leadership, before a more regular return beginning in 2021 with Steve Lironi. That new period led to Mascara Streakz (2022), featuring writing contributions from Johnny McElhone. Altered Images remains associated with a distinct synthesis of post‑punk, new wave and early‑1980s Scottish pop.