Cock Sparrer

Cock Sparrer is an English punk rock band formed in 1972. They rose to prominence during the UK punk rock scene of the late 1970s, and are considered to be one of the pioneers of the Oi! genre. The band is known for their catchy melodies, energetic live performances, and their politically charged lyrics, which often deal with issues such as working-class struggles, unemployment, and racism.

The band was formed in 1972 by Colin McFaull (vocals), Mick Beaufoy (guitar), Steve Bruce (bass), and Wilko Johnson (drums). The name Cock Sparrer was taken from a character in Charles Dickens' novel Oliver Twist. The band quickly gained a following in the East End of London, and soon became a regular fixture at punk rock venues such as The Roxy and The 100 Club.

In 1977, Cock Sparrer released their debut album, Cock Sparrer, which was a critical and commercial success. The album featured the hit singles "Runnin' Riot" and "England Belongs to Me", which became anthems for the growing punk rock movement. The band followed up with their second album, Shock Troops, in 1978, which was also well-received.

However, the band's success was short-lived. In 1979, McFaull left the band to pursue a solo career, and Beaufoy died of a heroin overdose. The band continued to perform and record throughout the 1980s and 1990s, but they never regained the popularity they had enjoyed in the late 1970s.

In 2007, the band reunited with McFaull on vocals, and they have since released two more studio albums, Forever (2007) and Subversion (2017). Cock Sparrer continues to tour and perform live, and they remain a popular act among punk rock fans.

The band's music has been praised by critics for its energy, catchiness, and political awareness. They have been credited with helping to shape the sound of punk rock in the late 1970s, and their songs have been covered by a wide range of artists, including The Exploited, Discharge, and The Casualties.