The Bolshoi were different. Their songs were dark and subversive, sufficient evidence for many critics to corral them under the Gothic banner at the time of their debut album Friends – but they really only flirted with Goth. They oozed dark, pensive lyrics supported with inventive pop-goth guitar making them nearly impossible to categorize.

Based in London, the band consisted of Trevor Tanner (lead vocals, guitar), Nick Chown (bass), Jan Kalicki (drums), and Paul Clark (keyboards). With powerful live shows The Bolshoi built a substantial following before disbanding in 1988.

We are excited to reissue their 1986 full-length debut album Friends (or Fiends). Out of print for at least 30 years, this pressing is on white vinyl. Upon release, Friends reached the top of the Alternative charts,