Formed in the late 1970s by a coterie of Welsh musicians and college students, Z-Block served as a citadel for Cardiff's small but motivated independent music scene. The bands operated in a cooperative spirit, sharing gigs, equipment, and resources. Young Marble Giants' first recorded appearance was on Z-Block's Is The War Over? compilation LP, and those tracks got the band its Rough Trade record deal. When YMG split in late 1980, the individual band members turned to their Z-Block pals for support. Alison Statton formed Weekend with Spike Williams, formerly of Z-Block flagship band Reptile Ranch; the two continue to record and perform as Alison Statton & Spike. Stuart Moxham has occasionally drawn on Z-Block veterans for his Original Artists CDs, including his youngest brother Andrew. Following a number of re-releases of Z Block material, the label has recently been revived with the release of another compilation album, this one coordinated over the internet and involving artists from across the globe. Z Block official site http://www.zblock.co.uk
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