The Chameleons

The Chameleons, an English post-punk band, was formed in Middleton, near Manchester, United Kingdom, in 1981. The original lineup consisted of Mark Burgess on vocals and bass, Dave Fielding on guitar and keyboards, Reg Smithies on guitar, and John Lever on drums. After disbanding their previous groups, the members began rehearsing together and sent a demo to BBC Radio 1's John Peel, leading to their first radio sessions. In 1982, they released their debut single "In Shreds" with Epic Records. The band's first album, Script of the Bridge, was released in August 1983 under Statik Records and showcased their versatility and Burgess's lyrical depth. Their second album, What Does Anything Mean? Basically, followed in 1985, featuring notable tracks like "Singing Rule Britannia (While The Walls Close In)". After signing with Geffen Records, they released Strange Times in July 1986, produced by Dave M. Allen of The Cure. The band disbanded in 1987 following the death of their manager Tony Fletcher and internal disputes, releasing a farewell EP titled "Tony Fletcher Walked On Water.... La La La La La - La La - La - La". The Band first reformed in 2000 for the album Why Call It Anything (2001) and a second time in 2021 which the issue of Arctic Moon in september 2025.