Leatherface were a British punk rock band from Sunderland, Tyne and Wear, fronted by Frankie Stubbs. Formed in August 1988 by Frankie Stubbs and Dickie Hammond (also of HDQ), Leatherface released four full-length albums before their initial split in 1993. Third album Mush was, according to Allmusic, "one of the most intense records of the 90s, with some of the fiercest playing and song dynamics.. considered one of the best albums of the decade."
The band split in late 1993, – releasing a posthumous mini album (The Last) the following year – but reformed in 1998, after the death of bass player Andy Crighton (also of Snuff). Four more albums followed between 1999 and 2012.
Leatherface's music has been described as a cross between Hüsker Dü and Motörhead, a notable element being Stubbs' rasping, "gravelly" vocals. The lyrics often feature far-fetched similes, metaphors, word play and obscure allusions.
Peel first seemed to recognise Leatherface's work in 1989 through various members of the band who were part of HDQ, a group that he supported via sessions and airplay. He invited the band to do three sessions for his programmes in the 90's. The band broke up on the day they recorded their final session.
