Deaf School

Liverpools dynamic music scene gave the world The Beatles. What city could hope to follow that? But 12 years later, in 1974, lightning nearly struck twice. Deaf School were a band formed in John Lennons old art college, rehearsing in the very same rooms. With their chaotic and wildly entertaining brand of rock cabaret, Deaf School were tipped for instant stardom and signed up by Warner Brothers in California. But suddenly, with the world at their feet, Deaf School were swept aside by Britains punk rock revolution. A great band, said the Sex Pistols manager Malcolm McLaren. But its just as bad being too early as too late. Though their hopes were dashed the band has never surrendered. And 40 years on, Deaf Schools influence is acknowledged by British bands from Madness to Dexy's Midnight Runners. Their reunion shows, still madly glamorous and eccentric, are tribal gatherings for a fanbase that never forgot them. The bands first full-length biography is written by British music writer Paul Du Noyer, a follower since Deaf Schools early days in Liverpool. Deaf School are such a delicious secret, he says. Its almost a shame to reveal it.