A documentary paying tribute to THE ASSOCIATES is to be previewed in London tonight (June 13) and will be screened in Scotland next week to mark the re-release of the band’s seminal album ‘SULK’.
Among the ’80s stars speaking about the band in the documentary ‘The Glamour Chase’ are Marc Almond, Siouxsie Sioux, ABC singer Martin Fry, Glenn Gregory and Shirley Bassey.
The half-hour film, part of STV‘s Artery series, celebrates the life of Associates singer Billy MacKenzie, who committed suicide in 1997. He had just signed to Nude records and recorded what was regarded as his best material in years.
His partner in The Associates, Alan Rankine, who now lectures on music at a Glasgow college, also speaks in the documentary, which is shown on Monday night on ITV Scotland. A spokesperson said discussions are in progress to look at a possible nationwide airing, but nothing is yet confirmed.
‘Sulk’ also comes out on Monday through V2. Originally released in 1982, this is the first time the album has been available on CD. It includes stand-out Associates hits ‘Party Fears Two, which reached Number 9 in 1982, Top 20 singles ‘Love Hangover’, ‘Club Country’ and ’18 Carat Love Affair’.
It is followed by a re-release of their album ‘Fourth Drawer Down’ and a B-sides and rarities album, ‘Double Hipness’ on July 24.