Best described as a “thinking person’s dance band,” Chicago new wave punk band Phil ‘n’ the Blanks released two 45rpm singles, three albums and six videos during 1980-1985. Their records were played widely on more than 200 radio stations and reached the Top 40 on national new music charts. Phil ‘n’ the Blanks toured the Midwest and East Coast extensively, and their kinetic videos were hits on MTV.
Band Members
Phil Bimstein (lead vocals, guitar, keyboards)
Blanche le Blanc (lead vocals)
Eric Kister (lead guitar)
Bill Hyland (bass)
Roman Zabicki (drums, vocals)
Albums
Multiple Choice
LP, Album 1981, Pink Records
Tracklist
Side A
- (I’m Her) Sex Toy
- Family, Work, Neighborhood, Peace & Freedom
- The Ladder
- Advertising Girl
- Void Fill
- Sex Life
- Black Is Not A Color (It’s A Situation)
Side B
- Ou Est?
- Without Consummation
- Keeping Me Honest
- Inspected By #7
- Push & Pull
- Vi-Sectomy
- How It’s Done
Singles, Songs and Videos
How It’s Done
“Energy and intelligence aren’t often teamed in musical groups, but you’ll find that dynamic duo in Phil ‘n’ the Blanks. … Bimstein loads his songs with strong melodies and catchy hooks. … Bimstein’s lyrics are intelligent and witty, sometimes plucked from newspaper and magazine stories. Perhaps the best thing about this band is that it has no obvious influences;
Chicago Sun-Times
PRL-8-53
“Possessed of wit and style … fun, kinetic tunes with a literate slant and frequently kinky twist”
Illinois Entertainer
Vi-sectomy
“Imaginative … irresistible”
Chicago Reader
Advertising Girl
The National Dance Contest
Head Screwed ON
I Want Some More/I’m Losing Interest
7″ Vinyl, 45 RPM, 1981
Photo credits: John Gronkowski, Otis Ball, Von, Tom Giblin, Michael Lapin; Video: Joe Federici