By Isle of Wight Observer
An Isle of Wight band, who are considered pioneers of the punk genre, will reunite for their first performances in more than 50 years.
Stormtrooper, who last played live together in October 1975, will play two shows as part of a 2026 reunion tour. They will take to the stage at Ryde’s Blacksheep Bar today (March 13) and Newport’s Quay Arts on Friday, March 27.
After playing their only live show at a concert in Bath, Stormtrooper released their debut single I’m A Mess in 1977. The track was produced on Solent Records alongside commemorative badges which, in some photos, can be seen modelled by punk icon and former Sex Pistols member, Sid Vicious.
Following the Island shows they will be headlining shows in London and Toronto later this year.
Founding bassist, Jeff Piccinini, said: “We couldn’t get arrested back in 1975 but here we are 50 years later playing our songs. A storm is coming!”
In 1978, Stormtrooper recorded their next single I’m On Fire, but never released it.
After splitting, Jeff joined another band, Chelsea, and singer, Nigel Hutchings, became assistant manager of the legendary Marquee Club in Soho, London.
In 2003, the group reformed in a studio in California and re-recorded I’m A Mess, with help from Guns & Roses drummer, Brain, and UK Subs guitarist, Nicky Garrett.
The shows will feature their classic recordings, as well as other material. Founding members, Jeff and Nigel, will front the group, with help from guitarists, Pete Galpin and Graham McCollough, and drummer, Kevin Mann.