An Arc Of Hives

the boutique label and ltm are pleased to present the very first compilation by influential writer and humorist john dowie, acclaimed by many as britain's first 'alternative comedian', and an unlikely early signing to factory records. born in birmingham in 1950, dowie might have rivalled john cooper clarke as a literate punk poet had an ep recorded for virgin in 1977 outsold 'god save the queen'. feted by tony wilson of factory as a new wave lenny bruce, dowie went on to record with martin hannett and alberto y lost trios paranoias (all featured here), before moving on to stage and television work, and finally retiring from stand-up in 1991. this remastered compilation cd includes all tracks from the original singles released between 1977 and 1981, as well as unreleased demos recorded with the smirks, albertos and fabulous poodles, plus live material recorded in 1985. the booklet features detailed liner notes by stewart lee, dave cohen and james nice, plus cover art by ralph steadman.