The Damned with The Courettes, Peter Hook and The Light, and more

Formed in 1976, The Damned are a pioneering London band in British punk rock with 11 studio albums. Known for dark lyrics and David Vanian's rich baritone vocals, they helped shape the Goth-Rock genre.

The Courettes' new album "The Soul Of... The Fabulous Courettes" blends Wall of Sound with fuzz, earning rave reviews for its energetic garage rock style reminiscent of a Ramones-overhauled Ronettes.

Marc Almond, born in Southport, gained fame as part of synth pop duo Soft Cell. Known for his theatrical style, he pursued a solo career after the band's 1984 split. Almond's work spans genres like cabaret, pop, chanson, and Russian folk. He released seminal albums with the Willing Sinners and collaborated with artists like Jarvis Cocker, Jools Holland, and Gene Pitney. Notable albums include "The Stars We Are" and "Absinthe." He covered Jacques Brel extensively and released a ten-disc retrospective, "Trials of Eyeliner." Almond was awarded an honorary doctorate in 2017 and remains an influential figure.