Blue Plate Special – Gene Loves Jezebel
Gene Loves Jezebel, a British rock band founded in the early 1980s by twin brothers Michael and Jay Aston, became a distinctive force in the gothic rock and post-punk scenes before evolving into a genre-blending powerhouse. Emerging from Wales and relocating to London, the Astons, with a rotating lineup of musicians, carved their unique niche with haunting melodies and theatrical energy. Their 1983 debut album, Promise, reached No. 8 on the UK Indie Chart, while subsequent releases such as Discover (1986) and The House of Dolls (1987) brought them international acclaim, marked by charting singles like “Heartache,” “Desire (Come and Get It),” and “The Motion of Love.” Known for their dramatic flair and adaptability, the band’s mix of gothic allure and danceable rhythms won them both UK and US audiences, leading to frequent appearances on college radio and festival stages.
I became a fan when Discover was released, and quickly went and found Immigrant and Promise to get caught up. Honestly, when House of Dolls was released, MTV overplayed The Motion of Love to the point where I hated the song, but over time, it’s become nostalgic. Although in the early 90’s the band tried too hard to fit in with some of the hair metal crowd, they never lost their unique sound due to Michael and Jay’s vocals.
The band’s journey has been as dynamic as their sound, with the Aston brothers parting ways in the 1990s and leading separate versions of Gene Loves Jezebel. Despite legal battles and evolving lineups, both iterations of the band have continued to record and perform, enriching their legacy with standout albums such as Dance Underwater (2017) from Jay’s camp and Exploding Girls (2003) from Michael’s. Their most recent release, Love Death Sorrow (2023), showcases Jay Aston’s version of the band at its creative peak, earning critical acclaim for its blend of nostalgic and modern influences. Gene Loves Jezebel’s impact transcends music, finding resonance in pop culture, including a homage in The Mountain Goats’ song “Abandoned Flesh.” With their dramatic history and enduring artistry, Gene Loves Jezebel remains a fascinating chapter in the story of alternative rock.
Some of my favorites from their catalog:
Desire (Come and Get It) – from the album Discover (1986)
Jealous – from the album Kiss of Life (1990)
Worth Waiting For – from the album Immigrant (1985)
The Motion of Love – from the album The House of Dolls (1987)
Heartache – from the album Discover (1986)
Break the Chain – from the album Heavenly Bodies (1993)
Sweetest Thing – from the album Discover (1986)
Love No Longer – from the album Exploding Girls (2003)
Bruises – from the album Promise (1983)
Push – from the album Giving Up the Ghost (2001)
