The Names, a Belgian post-punk and new wave band from Brussels, was formed in 1978 by bassist, singer, and lyricist Michel Sordinia. Initially known as The Passengers, they changed their name to The Names in 1978 and released their debut single “Spectators of Life” under WEA (now Warner Music Group) in 1979. They gained attention after connecting with Rob Gretton and Factory Records during a Joy Division concert at Plan K in Brussels. The Names' collaboration with producer Martin Hannett resulted in notable releases such as the single “Nightshift” (1981) and their debut album Swimming (1982). Their single “Nightshift” reached number 35 on the UK independent music chart. In 1984, The Names disbanded but reunited in 2007 for a concert at Plan K. They released subsequent albums including Monsters Next Door(2009) and Stranger Than You (2015).
