The Cortinas were a British punk rock band from Bristol established in 1976. The ensemble consisted of guitarists Nick Sheppard and Mike Fewings, bassist Dexter Dalwood, drummer Daniel Swan, and vocalist Jeremy Valentine. The group reached professional recognition in their hometown for a musical style that transitioned from rhythm and blues to punk rock covers of musicians including The Stooges. Their recording career began with the debut single “Fascist Dictator” (1977), which was released through the label Step Forward and reached professional recognition in 2001 after being named one of the best punk rock singles by the publication Mojo. The ensemble subsequently released the single “Defiant Pose” (1977) and recorded a professional session for the musician John Peel at Maida Vale Studios. The Cortinas signed with the label CBS Records and released its debut studio recording True Romances (1978). The ensemble performed as a support act for international tours with musicians including Blondie, Chelsea, and The Stranglers. The group disbanded in 1978. Sheppard subsequently performed as a member of the ensemble The Clash and Dalwood reached professional recognition as a painter. Valentine subsequently performed as a lecturer in media. Swan subsequently established a professional booking agency.
