Vinyl Vault - The Untouchables – Twist n Shake

This record, sent to me in 1982, completely blew me away! It captures the raw energy of a band making their first record, with a live feel translated into the studio. Almost surf-like in its simplicity, it was recorded at the iconic Cherokee Studios in California.

When I visited LA in May 1983, I got to know The Untouchables well. We were featured together in Twist magazine, run by their manager David, and I often met with them during their trips to London after they signed to Stiff. Their refreshing sound blended ska, Motown, and Two-Tone influences, driven by Clyde’s distinctive guitar and tight, authentic rhythm sections.

A vital part of the emerging LA mod scene, they were there at the beginning, playing iconic venues like the ON Club.