A Popular History Of Signs - Taste (1988)

Hailing from London, A Popular History of Signs released arty synth-dance records in the early and mid-80's. The band released its first three 7" and two EPs with a lineup of Andy Jarman on vocals, bass, and synthesizer with Peter Scammell on synthesizer and Paul Clarke on percussion. In 1983, Scammel left the group and was replaced by Andrew Smith on guitar, synths and vocals. This lineup recorded the LP Comrades and single 'The Art of Persuasion', toured the UK in support of Shriekback and extensively in France and Spain. Clarke was eventually replaced by Mark Tattersall (also of Cabaret Voltaire) on drums. Smith left for journalism in 1986 and is now a bestselling author. One last album followed.

Although they never found much success and received mixed reviews, TrouserPress applauded their enigmatic style, "provocative subject matter, crystalline production and flawless playing" and likened them to Wang Chung and Ultravox.

Andy Jarman is now performing solo as Southern Arts Society and released a record featuring contributions from members of Piano Magic. A tour of Spain is underway for 2007.