Martin Newell (musician)

Martread

Martin Newell is an English singer-songwriter, poet, and author. He is best known as the principal songwriter and frontman of the Cleaners from Venus, a lo-fi band that emerged in the early 1980s. Newell has also released several solo albums and published numerous collections of poetry.

Early Life

Martin Newell was born on March 4, 1953, in Wivenhoe, Essex, England. He developed an interest in music at a young age and began playing the guitar during his teenage years. Newell was influenced by the British Invasion bands of the 1960s, including The Beatles and The Kinks.

Career

Cleaners from Venus

In 1980, Newell formed the Cleaners from Venus with fellow musician Lol Elliott. The band became known for their DIY ethic and self-released a series of cassette albums. Their music combined elements of psychedelic pop, new wave, and jangle pop. Despite limited commercial success, the Cleaners from Venus gained a cult following and are considered pioneers of the lo-fi genre.

Solo Work

In addition to his work with the Cleaners from Venus, Newell has released several solo albums. His solo debut, The Greatest Living Englishman, was produced by Andy Partridge of XTC and released in 1993. The album received critical acclaim and is often cited as one of Newell's best works.

Poetry and Writing

Martin Newell is also an accomplished poet and author. He has published several collections of poetry, including This Little Ziggy and The Song of the Waterlily. His writing often reflects his experiences and observations of English life and culture.

Discography

With Cleaners from Venus

• Blow Away Your Troubles (1981)
• Midnight Cleaners (1982)
• Going to England (1987)

Solo Albums

• The Greatest Living Englishman (1993)
• The Off White Album (1995)
• A Summer Tamarind (2007)

Bibliography

• This Little Ziggy (1991)
• The Song of the Waterlily (1993)
• The Light Programme (2004)

Legacy

Martin Newell's work with the Cleaners from Venus and his solo projects have influenced a generation of musicians in the indie rock and lo-fi scenes. His contributions to music and poetry have earned him a dedicated fanbase and critical recognition.

See Also

• Cleaners from Venus
• Lo-fi music
• DIY ethic
• Psychedelic pop
• Jangle pop