The Vaselines

The Vaselines are an alternative rock band from Glasgow, Scotland. Formed in Glasgow in 1986, the band was originally a duo between its songwriters Eugene Kelly and Frances McKee, but later added James Seenan and Eugene's brother Charlie Kelly on bass and drums respectively from the band Secession.
Discovering The Vaselines: A Look into the Musical Biography, Best Songs, and Genre
An important aspect of music is the ability to transport us to different places, emotions, and perspectives. The Vaselines’ music can be a perfect example of this, taking us back to the 80s, to the budding Scottish indie pop and alternative scene. Despite their short-lived career, their music left a significant impact and influenced notable bands like Nirvana and Belle and Sebastian. In this article, we’ll explore The Vaselines’ musical biography, best songs, and genre, and what makes them stand out from other bands.
The Vaselines formed in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1987, thanks to lead vocalist and guitarist Eugene Kelly and lead vocalist and bassist Frances McKee. Their music is undeniably indie pop and alternative rock, reflecting the iconic sound of the late 80s and early 90s. What set them apart from their peers was their rebellious lyrics, which dealt with sex, religion, and love in a humorous and ironic way. They were never afraid to push boundaries and challenge societal norms.
Their most notable song, Molly’s Lips, caught the attention of Nirvana’s Kurt Cobain, who became a vocal fan of The Vaselines. He covered the song with Nirvana, propelling The Vaselines to a new level of fame. Another beloved song is Jesus Don’t Want Me for a Sunbeam, which was also covered by Nirvana. These songs showcase the band’s ability to convey serious themes behind a catchy, upbeat melody.
Despite The Vaselines’ relatively brief time together as a band, their contributions are significant. Their debut album, Dum-Dum, which contains beloved classics such as Son of a Gun and You Think You’re a Man, has cemented their place in indie music history. The band’s follow-up album, Enter The Vaselines, was released many years later in 2009.
The Vaselines played several iconic concerts during their time together, including opening for The Jesus and Mary Chain in London's Brixton Academy and playing at Edinburgh’s annual Fringe Festival. Their concerts were infused with the same infectious energy that makes their music so beloved, with both Eugene Kelly and Frances McKee’s chemistry and raw energy shining through in every performance.
No discussion of The Vaselines would be complete without mentioning its influence over both indie and alternative rock music. The band, along with contemporaries Orange Juice, set the stage for Scotland’s burgeoning indie pop scene, which would go on to inspire countless bands, including Belle and Sebastian. The Vaselines’ music was edgy, full of wit, and laced with a relatable charm that drew people in.
The Vaselines’ impact on indie pop and alternative rock music continues to this day, making them a significant band in the genre’s history. Their contributions are undeniable, and their music remains beloved, all these years later. Their music often helped listeners navigate complex issues with humor and irony, creating catchy tunes that are still being enjoyed by fans around the world. The Vaselines influenced a generation of musicians, leaving a lasting legacy that is sure to continue for many years to come.
The Vaselines’ impact on indie pop and alternative rock music continues to this day, making them a significant band in the genre’s history. Their contributions are undeniable, and their music remains beloved, all these years later. Their music often helped listeners navigate complex issues with humor and irony, creating catchy tunes that are still being enjoyed by fans around the world. The Vaselines influenced a generation of musicians, leaving a lasting legacy that is sure to continue for many years to come.