THE JESUS AND MARY CHAIN – Benchmark Debut LP ‘PSYCHOCANDY’ Came Out 40 Years Ago Today
Significant longplayers from the past
18 November 2025
Scottish post-punk pop heroes THE JESUS AND MARY CHAIN (1983–1999, 2007–present),
formed by Jim and William Reid, released their benchmark debut LP PSYCHOCANDY on
18 November 1985, today 40 years ago.
Its combination of guitar feedback and noise with traditional pop melody and structure proved influential on the forthcoming shoegaze genre and alternative rock in general.
Critics have noted the influence of classic 1960s pop groups, such
as The Beach Boys and The Rolling Stones, alongside the work of legends
like The Stooges, The Velvet Underground, and Suicide.
It peaked at #37 in the UK and became a long-time selling LP.
NME said: “A great searing citadel of beauty whose wall of noise,
once scaled, offers access to endless vistas of melody and emotion.”
Singles: Never Understand / You Trip Me Up / Just Like Honey
– NEVER UNDERSTAND –
– YOU TRIP ME UP –
– JUST LIKE HONEY –
ALBUM
