CHRYSALIS
★★★☆
Given that whoever’s behind the microphone tends to define a band’s identity, there aren’t many who, having established themselves, manage to transition successfully from one singer to another. For every AC/DC there’s a Mötley Crüe; for every Genesis there are Doors aplenty; and one doubts Joy Division would have weathered Ian Curtis’ passing without becoming New Order.
Still, Ultravox’s decision to replace the departed John Foxx in 1979 with Midge Ure was less risky. The Lanarkshire lad had enjoyed a No.1 with Slik, joined Sex Pistol Glen Matlock in the Rich Kids, and – as well as forming Visage with Steve Strange in 1978 – was playing and co-writing with Thin Lizzy.