Ambivalence

Semi-mythical perpetrators of the first-ever Flying Nun record, the Pin Group were the archetypal band with a plan. This, combined with one of the lowest profiles in popular music, naturally makes them one of the hottest posthumous properties around. Two singles and one 12" EP, live shows only in Christchurch between May 1981 and January 1982, a reunion single in 1993; and that's all folks.

Now, all this has been bought together for a complete re-issue. Ambivalence sees all the Christchurch act's material fully re-mastered by band member Roy Montgomery and engineer Arnold van Bussell. Compiled by Bruce Russell, the reissue features the original version of their second single Coat, plus the 12" LP includes a bonus download of live tracks. All repackaged with reproductions of the original artwork by contemporary artist and Pin Group associate Ronnie van Hout.

Formed in late 1980, initially a trio of Roy Montgomery (gtr/vcl), Peter Stapleton (drms) and Desmond Brice (bass) - all veterans of various Christchurch pre-punk and punk bands. The addition of Ross Humphries on bass and vocals proved to be the missing link, his muscular yet minimally melodic playing was to mesh perfectly with Montgomery's determined droning raga-rock guitar and Stapleton's white-knuckled martial hammering.