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New Fast Automatic Daffodils
New Fast Automatic Daffodils
New Fast Automatic Daffodils
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New Fast Automatic Daffodils (later shortened to New FADS) were an alternative rock group from Manchester, England, active between 1988 and 1995.

Key Information

History

[edit]

Formed in 1988 by Dolan Hewison (guitar), Justin Crawford (bass), Perry Saunders (drums) in Hulme whilst students at Manchester Polytechnic, the line-up was complete when Andy Spearpoint, who at the time was at drama school in Manchester,[1] joined on vocals. The name comes from a poem by Adrian Henri that mixed an advertisement for the Dutch DAF car with the Wordsworth poem[1] "I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud". Often associated with the Madchester scene of the late 1980s, but never really part of that scene,[2] taking more inspiration from post punk labels such as Postcard Records, the band's debut single, "Lions" was released in 1989 on Playtime Records (then home to Inspiral Carpets), followed the same year by the Music Is Shit EP. In 1990, after the success of their breakthrough single "Big" they signed to Play It Again Sam Records, September of that year seeing the release of "Fishes Eyes", and debut album Pigeonhole appearing in November, which reached the UK top 50.[3]

They developed a brilliant live reputation[citation needed] touring the UK, Europe and the US having secured deals with Mute / Elektra in the States. Further singles followed in 1991 working with legendary Factory producer Martin Hannett on a rerecorded version of "Get Better". and in 1992 they de-camped to Belgium to work with the equally famous Craig Leon on their second album Body Exit Mind, a more experimental record that was mostly recorded in live takes trying to capture the elusive live performances the band were famed for.[citation needed] Released in October 1992 and reaching No. 57 in the UK it spawned two NME singles of the week with 'Its Not What You Know" and "Stockholm" which became a top 10 college radio hit in the US. 1994 saw the band shorten their name to New FADS, with 2 EPs released that year, before a final album, Love It All in 1995. The band split up in 1995.

The band recorded three sessions for John Peel's radio show,[4] the first two of which were compiled onto an album, The Peel Sessions in 1991. Their song "Big" also reached No. 14 in the Festive Fifty in 1990[4] and featured on the influential 1990 compilation album Happy Daze. Their lone charting success in the United States was the single "Stockholm", which reached No. 30 on the Billboard Modern Rock charts in 1993.[5]

Singer Andy Spearpoint also flirted with acting, having a small part in Coronation Street.[2]

Post band activities

[edit]

Andy Spearpoint[6] now lives in Ireland and is embarking on an MA in music. Dolan Hewison[7] is Managing Director of the ad agency Ear to the Ground and has recently released an album under the name Au-Turn. Icarus Wilson-Wright[8] as well as working with Basement Jaxx as a percussionist is also a Video Artist working with Massive Attack and also exhibiting in the Turbine Hall at the Tate Modern. Justin Crawford[9] is one part of DJ duo Unabombers and the infamous Electric Chair night as well as a prolific career as an artist recording solo under the name Only Child.

Discography

[edit]

Singles

[edit]
  • "Lions" (1989, Playtime) 12" tracks:
  1. Lions
  2. Fate Don't Fail Me Now
  3. Your Dreams My Nightmares
  • "Music Is Shit" EP (1989, Playtime) 12" tracks:
  1. Beam Me Up
  2. A Man Without Qualities
  3. Music Is Shit parts 1-3

CD version (AMUSE 6CD) contained an extra track Lions, taken from the first 12”

  • "Big" (1990 Amuse 7CD, Playtime) UK No. 109

cd tracks:

  1. Big 6:13
  2. Big (Baka) 6:30
  3. Big (Instrumental) 6:32
  • "Fishes Eyes" (1990 BIAS162 CD, Play It Again Sam) UK No. 77

cd tracks:

  1. Fishes Eyes 6:46
  2. Fishes Eyes (Underwater) 5:19
  3. White 3:51
  • "Get Better" (1991 BIAS193 CD, Play It Again Sam) UK No. 85

cd tracks:

  1. Get Better 4:30
  2. Pigeonhole (Edit) 4:52
  3. I Found Myself in Another Room 3:52
  4. Get Better (Version 1) 4:29
  • "All Over My Face" (1991 BIAS199 CD, Play It Again Sam) UK No. 96

cd tracks:

  1. All Over My Face 3:53
  2. All Over My Face (Split Decision) 5:20
  3. All Over My Face (Off the Road) 4:56
  4. Why The Hard Man Fail 4:42
  • "Big" (1991, Playtime, Play It Again Sam & Mute) cd tracks:
  1. Big (Edit) 4:12
  2. Big (Baka) 6:30
  3. Get Better 4:30
  4. Get Better (Extended) 6:30
  5. White 3:50
  • "It's Not What You Know" (1992, Play It Again Sam) UK No. 82
cd tracks:
  1. It's Not What You Know 4:07
  2. Head On 3:28
  3. Beatlemania 4:50
  4. Beautiful 4:40
  • "Stockholm" (1992, Play It Again Sam) UK No. 89

cd tracks:

  1. Stockholm 5:10
  2. Stockholm (Edit) 4:12
  3. Cannes 4:25

10" tracks:

  1. Stockholm (Demo Version)
  2. It's Not What You Know (Demo Version)
  3. Hexagon Spring
  • "Bong" (1993, Play It Again Sam) cd tracks:
  1. Bong 4:06
  2. It's Not What You Know 4:08
  3. Head On 3:28
  4. Beautiful 4:40
  5. Cannes 4:25
  • "Life Is An Accident 1" (1994 BIAS249 CD1, Play It Again Sam) (as New FADS) cd tracks:
  1. Life Is An Accident 3:02
  2. Every Once In A While (Fuzzy Logic) 6:04
  3. Aches And Pains 3:50
  • "Life Is An Accident 2" (1994 BIAS249 CD2, Play It Again Sam) (as New FADS) cd tracks:
  1. Life Is An Accident 3:02
  2. PSV (VPL) 7:55
  3. Mad Pop 3:03
  • "These Foolish Things" (1994, Play It Again Sam) (as New FADS) 10" tracks:
  1. These Foolish Things 4:31
  2. Every Once In A While 4:15

Albums

[edit]
  1. Get Better 3:52
  2. Fishes Eyes 7:04
  3. Working for Him 4:17
  4. Part 4 4:13
  5. Big 6:08
  6. You Were Lying When You Said You Loved Me 4:17
  7. Amplifier 3:57
  8. Reprise 3:47
  9. Partial 6:26
  10. Penguins 3:51
  11. I Found Myself In Another Room 3:51
  12. Pigeonhole 6:06

Some vinyl copies of Pigeonhole had a free 7" with a cover of the Velvet Underground's 'I'm Set Free'

  1. Purple Haze 1:46
  2. Man Without Qualities II 3:19
  3. Jaggerbog 3:42
  4. Big 5:32
  5. Get Better 3:25
  6. Part 4 4:29
  7. Man Without Qualities One 4:44
  1. Bong 4:05
  2. It's Not What You Know 4:07
  3. Stockholm 5:12
  4. I Take You To Sleep 3:52
  5. Bruises 6:58
  6. How Much Longer Must We Tolerate Mass Culture? 1:19
  7. Kyphos 4:44
  8. Teenage Combo 0:25
  9. Beatlemania 4:50
  10. What Kind Of Hell Is This? 0:39
  11. American Money 4:28
  12. Missing Parts Of Famous People 1:05
  13. Patchwork Lives 5:08
  14. Music 8:08
  15. Exit Body, Exit Mind 1:02
  • Love It All (1995, Play It Again Sam) (as New FADS) cd tracks:
  1. These Foolish Things 4:31
  2. Life Is An Accident 3:02
  3. Left Right 3:59
  4. Every Once In a While 4:15
  5. Why Waste Your Love 3:35
  6. Monday It Is 4:15
  7. Saxophone 3:35
  8. What I Feel 3:52
  9. PSV 4:15
  10. Kill My Instincts 3:34
  11. Souvenir 1:54

Other appearances

[edit]
  • Wake Up and Make Love Before 8.30 in the Morning - Limited edition numbered VHS cassette (Visionary Communications Ltd). Eight songs recorded live and filmed using three cameras at the Palace in Bradford in 1989.
  • Big In Manchester (Special Meagre Mix) - Promotional 12" single limited to 500 copies. Strange Fruit (SF45) 1990.
  • Volume Two - Various Artists (Contains unique mix of "All Over My Face" (Scam Mix))
  • “home” - various artists (Contains Jaggerbog) sheer joy records 1990
  • Fifteen Minutes: A Tribute to the Velvet Underground (1994, Imaginary Records – ILLCD 047P, includes "I'm Set Free" by New F.A.D.S.
  • This Is Fascism (1996, M.C. Projects – PROCD 14. A 2CD collection of remixes of the New Fast Automatic Daffodils cover of the song "This Is Fascism" by Consolidated)
  • Kitchen Demos - Band released cassette (2023). Limited to 500 copies (DAF 3). Recreation of eight original demos recorded at The Kitchen, Hulme, Manchester in 1988.[10]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

New Fast Automatic Daffodils

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
New Fast Automatic Daffodils, often abbreviated as New FADs, was an band formed in , England, in 1988 and active until 1995. The group emerged as part of the scene, blending with danceable guitar riffs influenced by , , dub, and , which evolved to encompass a broader emotional range across their discography. Core members included vocalist Andy Spearpoint, Justin Crawford, Dolan Hewison, Perry Saunders, and percussionist Icarus Wilson-Wright. They released three studio albums—Pigeonhole (1990), Body Exit Mind (1992), and Love It All (1995)—along with numerous singles and EPs, earning acclaim for their energetic live performances and timeless originality during extensive tours across the UK, Europe, and the . In 2023, the band issued previously unreleased demos and live recordings, highlighting their enduring legacy.

Formation and early history

Band origins and initial lineup

New Fast Automatic Daffodils formed in 1988 at (now ) in the area of , , where the founding members were students exploring sounds amid the emerging local music scene. The band originated from the creative energy of the institution's arts and music programs, with initial rehearsals held in informal spaces like student accommodations and local venues in . The core lineup emerged from the remnants of the group Pariah, a relatively well-known outfit active in the mid-1980s. Founding members included guitarist Dolan Hewison, bassist Justin Crawford, and drummer Perry Saunders, all former Pariah members who sought to evolve their sound toward a more energetic, groove-oriented style after Pariah disbanded. Vocalist Andy Spearpoint, a student at a nearby institution, joined shortly after through an audition process that highlighted the band's need for a charismatic frontman to complement their instrumental foundation. Around 1989, the group solidified its initial configuration with the addition of percussionist Icarus Wilson-Wright, a fellow Polytechnic alumnus, enhancing their rhythmic drive for live settings. The band's name drew from a playful, absurd fusion in poet Adrian Henri's work, blending a Wordsworth-inspired reference to daffodils with an advertisement for a fast yellow Dutch car, embodying humor and whimsy that set their identity apart from more straightforward contemporaries. Early rehearsals focused on developing this quirky , often in Hulme's communal spaces like The Kitchen studio, where they recorded initial demos emphasizing scratchy guitars and funky basslines. Their first live performances took place in Manchester's underground clubs during the late 1980s, aligning with the scene's rise but maintaining distance from its drug-fueled elements in favor of a raw, energetic rock focus. These gigs, often at venues tied to the Polytechnic crowd, built a grassroots following through chaotic, danceable sets that foreshadowed their recorded output.

Debut releases and label signing (1988–1990)

The New Fast Automatic Daffodils released their debut single "Lions" in 1989 on the independent label Playtime Records, marking their entry into the music scene with a raw, dub-influenced sound. The 12-inch EP featured tracks like "Lions," "Fate Don't Fail Me Now," and "Your Dreams My Nightmares," capturing the band's experimental energy through layered guitars and rhythmic percussion. Later that year, they followed with the Music Is Shit EP on the same label, which included "Beam Me Up," "A Man Without Qualities," and "Music Is Shit (Pt 1 / Pt 2 / Pt 3)" as a combined track, further showcasing their noisy, aesthetics and gaining initial attention in the local alternative circuit. These early independent releases generated buzz from demos circulated to labels, leading to the band's signing with the Belgian-based Play It Again Sam Records in 1990, a pivotal move that provided broader distribution and professional support. Under this new deal, they issued the single "Big" in 1990, still via Playtime as a sub-label imprint, which blended with elements and reached number 109 on the UK Singles Chart, helping to solidify their presence in the burgeoning movement. The track's extended runtime and dub remix variants highlighted the band's ability to fuse dance rhythms with guitar-driven intensity. The band's debut album, Pigeonhole, arrived in November 1990 on Play It Again Sam, independently produced and recorded over August and September at Studio House in the area, where the group captured their live-wire spontaneity in a series of extended jams and improvisations. The album peaked at number 49 on the , reflecting modest commercial success amid the alternative scene's growth. Its tracklist comprised:
  • "Get Better" (3:54)
  • "Fishes Eyes" (6:08)
  • Untitled (0:56)
  • "Working for Him" (4:17)
  • "Part 4" (4:13)
  • "Big" (6:08)
  • "You Were Lying When You Said You Loved Me" (4:17)
  • "" (3:58)
  • "" (3:46)
  • "Partial" (6:25)
  • "" (3:51)
  • Untitled (1:17)
During this period, the founding members—vocalist Andy Spearpoint, guitarist Dolan Hewison, bassist Justin Crawford, drummer Perry Saunders, and percussionist Icarus Wilson-Wright—embarked on early tours, honing their energetic performances and building local buzz within the alternative and indie communities through gigs that emphasized their chaotic, danceable live reputation.

Career development

Breakthrough period and international exposure (1991–1993)

In 1991, New Fast Automatic Daffodils collaborated with renowned producer Martin Hannett on a re-recorded version of their track "Get Better," originally from their debut album Pigeonhole. Hannett, known for his innovative work with Factory Records acts like Joy Division and Happy Mondays, infused the single with his signature atmospheric and rhythmic elements, drawing from his earlier productions while adapting to the band's frenetic indie rock energy. The sessions, conducted amid Hannett's personal struggles with substance issues in his final months, resulted in a more polished yet experimental mix that highlighted the band's churning grooves and marked one of the producer's last contributions before his death in April 1991. Released on Play It Again Sam Records, the single helped propel the band toward wider recognition within the Manchester scene. That year, the band embarked on extensive touring to build their profile, including headline dates across the UK such as their performance at the Reading Festival and appearances at major events like Cities in the Park in Heaton Park. They expanded internationally with their first European tour, playing small clubs and festivals in a battered Mercedes van, including notable gigs in post-Berlin Wall East Germany that captured the era's transitional energy. In the US, they conducted a short solo tour, featuring a standout show at The Marquee in New York City, marking their initial foray into North American audiences. These tours, often grueling with 28 gigs in 30 days on later US legs supporting acts like Consolidated, solidified their reputation for high-octane performances that fused rock intensity with danceable rhythms, setting them apart from more laid-back Madchester contemporaries like Happy Mondays. The band's growing momentum culminated in media exposure, including their sessions for , which were compiled and released as The Peel Sessions in 1991 on Strange Fruit Records. These recordings captured raw, live-in-studio renditions of tracks like "Big" and "Fishes Eyes," showcasing their angular guitars and pulsating basslines in a format that resonated with Peel's indie audience. The release amplified their and contrasted their studio polish with the visceral edge of their live sound. In 1992, New Fast Automatic Daffodils released their second album, Body Exit Mind, produced by Craig Leon at ICP Recording Studios in Brussels. Leon, whose credits included pioneering work with the Ramones and Blondie, brought a cleaner, more expansive production that emphasized the band's blend of indie rock hooks and subtle electronic textures. The album peaked at number 57 on the UK Albums Chart, entering for one week in October 1992. Standout track "Stockholm," released as a single in September, gained international traction, reaching number 30 on the US Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart in early 1993 and earning NME Single of the Week honors for its brooding melody and driving rhythm. This period's output and tours highlighted the band's evolution from local Manchester favorites to a group with genuine transatlantic appeal, though they remained distinct in the Madchester landscape for their sharper, less hedonistic edge.

Later releases and disbandment (1994–1995)

In 1994, the band shortened its name to New FADS as they prepared to release their final material. That year, they issued two EPs: Life Is an Accident in March, featuring the title track alongside remixes and live recordings, and These Foolish Things / Every Once in a While later in the year, which included tracks that would appear on their subsequent album. These releases marked a continuation of their experimental sound but received limited commercial attention amid shifting musical trends. The band's third and final studio album, Love It All, arrived in January 1995 on Play It Again Sam Records, incorporating elements of their earlier groove-oriented style with more introspective lyrics and production contributions from on select tracks. Unlike their previous efforts—Pigeonhole (1990, UK #49) and Body Exit Mind (1992, UK #57)—Love It All failed to enter the top 100, reflecting diminished label support and a cooling interest in the scene. By early 1995, internal challenges, including member burnout from years of intensive touring and the broader decline of the movement as and gained prominence, led to the band's disbandment. Their final performance took place at Manchester's nightclub, a symbolic closure at a venue central to their scene, after which members pursued other commitments with no immediate reunion plans.

Musical style and critical reception

Influences, sound characteristics, and live reputation

New Fast Automatic Daffodils drew heavily from post-punk traditions, particularly the angular and rhythmic innovations of bands associated with Postcard Records, such as Orange Juice and Josef K, as well as the dominant UK independent sound exemplified by The Smiths. Their influences also encompassed the stark, intense minimalism of Joy Division and the abrasive, spoken-word urgency of The Fall, blended with the propulsive funk grooves of Manchester's Madchester scene, though they largely eschewed the heavy psychedelia that defined acts like Happy Mondays. Additional post-punk touchstones included the jagged, dance-oriented aggression of Gang of Four, which informed their rhythmic drive and avoidance of conventional rock structures. The band's sound evolved from the raw, jittery of their early work, characterized by Dolan Hewison's choppy, angular guitar riffs that locked into tight, percussive patterns, to a more refined mid-period fusion of with danceable, funk-inflected grooves. Andy Spearpoint's yelping, manic vocals added a layer of chaotic energy, often delivered with raw intensity that contrasted the underlying rhythmic precision provided by dual percussion— Wilson-Wright's auxiliary beats complementing Saunders' driving drums—creating a propulsive, sweat-soaked momentum. This distinctive indie style, rooted in and genres, emphasized dark, intense undercurrents fused with upbeat, groove-oriented elements, as heard in tracks like "Get Better" where relentless rhythms elevate angular guitar lines into infectious, club-ready anthems. Unlike the more psychedelic haze of core bands, their approach prioritized sharp, edges and rhythmic interplay for a sound that felt both urgent and danceable. New Fast Automatic Daffodils built a legendary live reputation for chaotic, high-energy performances that often surpassed their studio recordings in intensity and audience engagement. Known for sweat-drenched, manic sets at iconic venues like Manchester's —where their final 1995 show captured a "stonkingly good" display of raw power—they frequently stole the spotlight from headliners through relentless rhythms and improvisational flair. Their extensive tours across the , , and the fostered a fanatical following, particularly in the North West during the late and early , with gigs marked by frenetic audience interaction and a sense of unpolished urgency that embodied the band's roots. Critics and fans alike recall these shows as electric and unpredictable, highlighting Spearpoint's commanding stage presence and the band's ability to translate their angular, groove-driven sound into immersive, communal experiences.

Album reviews, chart performance, and lasting impact

The debut album Pigeonhole (1990) received positive critical reception for its energetic fusion of funk and , with its raw, percussive drive and sloppily funky grooves capturing the early spirit. praised the strong rhythm section and strummy guitar work that evoked influences like while adding a fresh, house-inflected edge. highlighted its emphasis on percussion and bass over lyrics, noting tracks like the bonus "I Found Myself in Another Room" as dynamic jams that prioritized groove over structure. The follow-up Body Exit Mind (1992) was lauded for its maturity and refined production, building on the debut's energy with more pointed lyrics and cohesive songcraft. appreciated the lush, emotional depth in tracks like "Stockholm," where passionate guitars and insightful commentary elevated the band's sound. noted the album's focus on distinct, percussive compositions, marking a progression from the looser jams of Pigeonhole without losing the core rhythmic intensity. Love It All (1995), the band's final studio release, drew mixed responses, often described as uneven in balancing experimental jazz-inflected beats with pop structures. Critics appreciated the blossoming songwriting in standout tracks but critiqued inconsistencies in pacing and cohesion compared to prior efforts. Commercially, New Fast Automatic Daffodils achieved modest success, primarily in the UK indie scene. Their debut Pigeonhole peaked at No. 49 on the for one week, while Body Exit Mind reached No. 57 for one week. Singles like "Fishes Eyes" charted at No. 77 on the UK Singles Chart for two weeks, reflecting strong underground support amid the wave. In the , the band garnered a , with "Stockholm" peaking at No. 30 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, aiding limited on alternative radio. The band's lasting impact lies in their role within the movement, broadening its scope beyond baggy by incorporating and experimental production techniques, as seen in the lush, layered arrangements of Body Exit Mind. They influenced 1990s acts, drawing from the era's sound. In the , reappraisals have highlighted their underrated status, featuring in playlists and festival retrospectives that celebrate 's diversity, alongside renewed attention to their cult appeal through archival streams and vinyl reissues.

Discography

Studio albums

The New Fast Automatic Daffodils released their debut studio , Pigeonhole, on November 6, 1990, through Play It Again Sam Records. Recorded at Studio House in during August and September 1990, the album features a raw, disjointed sound characterized by sloppily funky songs, strummy new wave guitar riffs from Dolan Hewison, and deep, resonant vocals by Andy Spearpoint. The 10-track album emphasizes percussion, bass grooves, and an indie attitude, with lyrics often secondary to the rhythmic drive, as heard in extended jams like "I Found Myself in Another Room." It peaked at number 49 on the , marking the band's first entry into the top 50. The tracklist for Pigeonhole is as follows:
  • "Get Better" (3:54)
  • "Fishes Eyes" (6:08)
  • "Working For Him" (4:17)
  • "Part 4" (4:13)
  • "Big" (6:08)
  • "You Were Lying When You Said You Loved Me" (4:17)
  • "Amplifier" (3:58)
  • "Reprise" (3:46)
  • "Partial" (6:25)
  • "Penguins" (3:51)
(Note: Some editions include unlisted short instrumentals.) The band's second studio album, Body Exit Mind, followed in October 1992, also on Play It Again Sam Records. Produced by —known for his work on early and Blondie albums—the record was tracked at ICP Recording Studios in and mixed at in , resulting in a more polished and cohesive sound compared to their debut. Featuring 11 principal tracks interspersed with brief interludes, the album showcases focused songwriting with strident guitar work and pointed lyrics addressing themes of and culture, exemplified by the energetic "Stockholm" and introspective "It's Not What You Know." It reached number 57 on the during a single week. The tracklist for Body Exit Mind includes:
  • "Bong" (4:06)
  • "It's Not What You Know" (4:07)
  • "Stockholm" (5:12)
  • "I Take You to Sleep" (3:52)
  • "Bruises" (6:58)
  • "Kyphos" (4:43)
  • "Beatlemania" (4:50)
  • "American Money" (4:28)
  • "Patchworks Lives" (5:08)
  • "Music" (8:08)
(Short pieces like "How Much Longer Must We Tolerate Mass Culture," "Teenage Combo," "What Kind of Hell Is This?," "Missing Parts of Famous People," and "Exit Body, Exit Mind" serve as transitions.) The group's final studio album, Love It All (released under the shortened moniker New Fads), came out in 1995 on Play It Again Sam Records. Produced, engineered, and mixed by Jeremy Allom, the 11-track effort continues the band's evolution toward with electronic and elements. Unlike its predecessors, it did not enter the . The tracklist for Love It All is:
  • "These Foolish Things" (4:29)
  • "Life Is an Accident" (3:02)
  • "Left Right" (3:59)
  • "Every Once in a While" (4:13)
  • "Why Waste Your Love" (3:36)
  • "Monday It Is" (4:14)
  • "" (3:34)
  • "What I Feel" (3:52)
  • "PSV" (4:15)
  • "Kill My Instincts" (3:33)
  • "" (1:54)

Singles and EPs

The New Fast Automatic Daffodils released a series of singles and EPs primarily through Play It Again Sam Records and its imprints between 1989 and 1995, often in vinyl and CD formats, with many featuring distinctive B-sides and remixes that highlighted the band's experimental sound. These shorter releases served as key promotional tools, achieving modest success on indie charts and limited mainstream penetration, while formats like 12-inch vinyl allowed for extended mixes and dub-influenced tracks. Notable B-sides included versions and alternative takes, such as the percussive "Baka" on the "Big" single, contributing to the band's reputation for energetic, groove-oriented output.
TitleYearLabelFormatsKey Notes and Chart Performance
Lions1989Playtime Records12" vinyl (EP)Debut release; featured tracks like "Fate Don't Fail Me Now" as B-side; achieved early indie chart recognition in the .
Music Is Shit (EP)1989Playtime RecordsVinylEarly EP showcasing raw, influences; limited distribution.
Big1990Playtime Records7", 12" vinyl, B-sides included "Baka" and instrumental version; bubbled under mainstream charts with indie airplay.
Fishes Eyes1990Play It Again Sam Records7", 12" vinyl, Peaked at #77 on the UK Singles Chart; 2 weeks on chart; B-sides featured remixes emphasizing the band's style.
Get Better1991Play It Again Sam Records7", 12" vinyl, Produced by ; rerecorded version with dub elements; B-sides included "Version 1" mix; strong indie reception.
All Over My Face1991Play It Again Sam Records7", 12" vinyl, Upbeat single with B-sides; supported debut promotion.
Bong (EP)1992Elektra / Mute, 12" vinyl-focused EP; tracks included "Head On" and "Beautiful"; limited international formats.
It's Not What You Know1992Play It Again Sam Records7", 12" vinyl, Single of the Week; B-sides with live elements; tied to second rollout.
Stockholm1992Play It Again Sam Records7", 12" vinyl, Peaked at #30 on Modern Rock Tracks; as B-sides; marked international breakthrough.
Live1993Play It Again Sam Records7" vinyl (limited edition)Promotional live recording; 33⅓ RPM; rare collector's item.
Life Is An Accident1994Play It Again Sam Records, 12" vinylFrom final era; B-sides included atmospheric .
These Foolish Things / Every Once In A While1994Play It Again Sam Records, vinylDouble A-side; experimental pairings; limited chart impact.
Left Right1994Play It Again Sam Records singleUp-tempo track with variants; final major push before disbandment.
Early singles like "Lions" and "Big" established the band's presence on the indie scene through Playtime Records, with vinyl formats allowing for immersive listening experiences via extended plays and B-side experiments that echoed Manchester's vibe. The 1991 "Get Better" release stood out for its collaboration with producer , whose involvement brought a signature echo-laden production that enhanced the track's rhythmic drive, helping it gain traction on alternative radio without cracking the mainstream Top 75. By 1992, the band's shift to broader distribution via Play It Again Sam yielded "Stockholm," their most successful single internationally, reaching #30 on the Modern Rock chart and featuring remixes that amplified its funky bassline for club play. Subsequent EPs and singles, such as the "" EP and "Life Is An Accident," maintained focus on and vinyl hybrids, often with B-sides like "" offering stripped-down or live interpretations, though chart trajectories remained confined to indie and alternative niches amid the band's evolving lineup and stylistic shifts.

Other releases

In addition to their studio albums and singles, New Fast Automatic Daffodils contributed to several sessions, most notably for John Peel's program on Radio 1. The band recorded three Peel Sessions between 1989 and 1992, capturing their raw, energetic live sound during the early era. These sessions were compiled and officially released as The Peel Sessions in 1991 on the label, featuring seven tracks from the first two sessions: four from the December 19, 1989, session ("," "Man Without Qualities II," "Jaggerbog," and "Big (Instrumental)"); and three from the November 11, 1990, session ("Get Better," "Part 4," and "Man Without Qualities One"). The release highlights the band's fusion of and dance elements in a stripped-down format, providing valuable insight into their development before major label signing. The third Peel Session from October 8, 1992, was not included in this compilation. A significant archival release came decades later with Kitchen Demos, a self-released compilation issued on , 2023, limited to 500 cassettes and available digitally via . These recordings stem from the band's earliest sessions in 1988–1989 at "The " in , , including demos of their debut singles "Lions," "Music is Shit (Pt. 1 & 2)," and "Big," alongside five additional unreleased tracks such as "Wake Up Man" and "Lifetime in the Sun." The project recreates the original cassette format with period artwork, offering fans a glimpse into the nascent stages of their sound before professional production. In 2023, the band also released Live at the Hacienda, a live album recorded at the famous Manchester venue, issued digitally and on limited formats via Bandcamp on November 24, 2023. The setlist includes tracks like "These Foolish Things," "Beatlemania," and "Stockholm," capturing their energetic performance style. Additionally, to mark the 40th anniversary of [PIAS] Recordings, the band contributed to the [PIAS] 40 anniversary EP, released on June 23, 2023, featuring remastered or alternate versions of "Big" and other tracks. The band also appeared on various artists compilations, particularly those tied to the and indie scenes. Their breakthrough track "Big" featured on the 1990 Island Records sampler Happy Daze, a key anthology of the genre that showcased emerging acts and helped elevate their profile. Another early appearance was a special mix of "Big" on the 1990 split single Big in alongside , emphasizing their local roots. While no official box sets or major retrospectives exist, unofficial bootlegs from the band's 1990s tours circulate among collectors, often capturing live performances at venues like the Haçienda. These fan-recorded tapes and CDs, though not commercially distributed, preserve the intensity of their stage presence during peak periods.

Post-band activities

Careers of key members

Following the disbandment of New Fast Automatic Daffodils in 1995, guitarist Dolan Hewison transitioned into the advertising industry, where he held senior leadership roles at the Manchester-based creative agency Ear to the Ground. Hewison served as Operations Director and later as a shareholder and director until his resignation on 21 October 2024. In parallel with his professional career, Hewison returned to music in 2023 with the solo project Au-Turn, releasing the debut album No.1 through MiCo MCR, featuring guitar-driven indie rock tracks including the single "Water Boatman." The album marked Hewison's first major creative output in nearly three decades, produced independently in Manchester. Vocalist Andy Spearpoint relocated to Marsden in following the band's split, where he worked briefly as a teacher before becoming a freelance music tutor. Around 2023, Spearpoint relocated to Cloughjordan, , where he is pursuing an MA in composition and releasing electronic and semi-improvised music on his personal page since 2020. He has participated in occasional interviews reflecting on the band's legacy, such as discussions of their live performances and songwriting process. In 2025, Spearpoint reformed his early project Weeds, releasing the album Feed The Creature on March 8, 2025, and performing live gigs with plans for more in the year. Spearpoint contributed guest vocals to "Water Boatman" on Hewison's Au-Turn album, representing a rare collaboration among former members. Bassist Justin Crawford continued in music through electronic and DJ production, co-founding the DJ duo Unabombers in the late 1990s alongside his brother Patrick, known for their influential Manchester club night Electric Chair and mix compilations on labels like Warp Records. Under the alias Only Child, Crawford has released solo electronic works, including albums such as Gem (2002) and various EPs blending house, funk, and experimental elements on imprints like International Deejay Gigolo. His post-band output emphasizes dance-oriented production, distinct from the band's indie rock sound. Drummer Perry Saunders has maintained a low profile since 1995, with limited public details available on his subsequent endeavors outside of music. In contrast, percussionist Icarus Wilson-Wright pursued both musical and visual arts careers, contributing percussion to Basement Jaxx's greatest hits compilation The Singles (2005), which included tracks like "Where's Your Head At" and achieved commercial success in the UK and internationally. Wilson-Wright also collaborated on visual and lighting design for Massive Attack's live performances, including their 2016 British Summer Time show at Hyde Park, incorporating topical video projections. Additionally, he created immersive light installations exhibited at Tate Modern's Turbine Hall during the 2015 Meltdown Festival, supported by XL Video for large-scale projections. Crossovers among ex-members have been infrequent but notable, such as Spearpoint's vocal appearance on Hewison's Au-Turn project and occasional shared reflections in interviews about their shared history in Manchester's music scene.

Recent archival releases (post-1995)

In 2023, New Fast Automatic Daffodils released Kitchen Demos, a compilation of early recordings from two 1988 demo cassettes taped at The Kitchen in , . The album features eight tracks, including demo versions of the band's first three singles—"Lions," "Music is Shit (Parts 1 & 2)," and "Big"—alongside five previously unreleased songs from their initial live sets. These raw recordings, produced by Danny Evans (a longtime collaborator), capture the group's formative sound in the squats of , with contributions from core members Dolan Hewison, Justin Crawford, and Peter "Pez" Saunders; Icarus Wilson-Wright makes his debut on "Big." Limited to 500 cassettes with original artwork by Joe McCullough, the release highlights the band's pre-label origins and has been praised for preserving their punk-infused energy. Later that year, on November 24, 2023, the band issued Live at the , a 14-track live documenting their final on January 23, 1996, at The 's Gay Traitor room in . Originally recorded after their split from PIAS but abandoned at the time, the set was revived through rediscovered original mixes, showcasing a typical New Fads show with tracks like "Get There," "," "Big," "Justify," and "." Performed by Hewison, Crawford, Andy Spearpoint, Saunders, and Wilson-Wright, it reflects the group's chaotic, high-energy live reputation, blending new material with classics in an unplanned farewell gig. Available digitally and on limited vinyl via , the release underscores enduring fan interest in their Madchester-era intensity. Despite these archival efforts, has not reunited for new performances or recordings as of November 2025. Their catalog, including the 2023 releases, has seen expanded digital availability on platforms like and , facilitating broader streaming access and renewed appreciation among listeners.

References

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