John Spink was one of the few photographers to capture the Bristol music scene from the mid 1970s to the early 1980s. John moved to Bristol from London in 1972 and fell in with the band Magic Muscle who lived in the communal ‘Fun House’ in Cotham worked as an occasional photographer for music mags as well as performing in some early shows by the surrealist Crystal Theatre.

 He pioneered a technique of processing black and white film using X-ray developer which enabled him to shoot in low light (such as clubs) without using flash. This collection not only captures the Bristol scene during these years but also showcases John’s unique photographic style.

 In 1981, John left Bristol for New York where he worked for Caroline Records. He now lives in Northern California and works as a tour manager for a large music merchandising company.

 John’s pictures are put in context by author Gill Loats who was at the heart of the Bristol music scene working as a DJ at the infamous Dug Out Club and watching live music most nights of the week.

Pictures include, The Pop Group, The Cortinas, Magic Muscle, Blondie, Big Youth, Ian Dury, Johnny Thunders, Various Artists, Crystal Theatre, Ashton Court Festival and many more. This title is produced in partnership with Bristol Archive Records.