The March Violets

Formed in Leeds in 1981, The March Violets were central to the first wave of gothic rock, emerging from the same fertile scene as The Sisters of Mercy. Their early career was closely linked to Andrew Eldritch, who released their first EPs on his Merciful Release label.

Sonically, they are characterized by the use of a drum machine (Dr. Rhythm), which allowed for a danceable, steady tempo that contrasted with the more chaotic punk of the era. Their sound identity is built on Tom Ashton's 'snakey' guitar work and the vocal contrast between Simon Denbigh and Rosie Garland (and later Cleo Murray). While they shared the 'Leeds sound' of heavy bass and echo, they possessed a more flamboyant, pop-inflected sensibility than their peers. Throughout the mid-80s, they transitioned toward a more polished alternative sound before disbanding in 1987. Their 21st-century reformation has seen them return to their darker roots, maintaining a cult following among crate-diggers and gothic traditionalists. They remain a vital link between the jagged edges of post-punk and the atmospheric depths of darkwave.