LETTERS

Rip It Up, Issue 52, 1 November 1981, Page 30

LETTERS

D. van Haarlem

Post to RIU, PO Box 5689, Auckland 1. Page six of October 1981 Rip It Up, I see NME described as the

"bastion of p***** imperialism." On page one you mention the anti-Springbok demos as "still fresh in everybody's minds." It would seem you managed to forget in the span of five pages. There is nothing but out and out racism in the use of the word p****», next thing you'll be

telling us that Black Uhuru are a n***«* band. M.J. Barton In the September RIU, you called the Screaming Meemees "New Zealand's hottest teen act". While I agree with you that the studio cuts do not do the Meemees justice, they are certainly not NZ's hottest teen act. Having seen them three times in Wellington, they do not match up to Wellington's own Mockers musically, visually or charismatically. I will give you the benefit of the doubt that you may have not seen the Mockers live recently, and the Wellington Zone recording does not do them justice?WßHßßMßW|pfcW In reply to your article on the Wellington scene I would like to say that we are not combative towards the rest of New Zealand and not in a "negative slump". That image is generated by a

minority of stirrers. I imagine the attitudes towards Auckland bands are a direct result of Wellington . musicians' frustrations' with your magazine. While Wellington bands chose to remain here, they have to endure the exhaltation of bands of lesser ability in Auckland. This situation is a tragedy of circumstances rather than RlU's fault. However, the fact that the bands choose not to migrate does not mean that they are of inferior quality. BigglyjßopVQi^pHH^H (Somewhat abridged for reasons of length) I was pleased to read your review of Rank and File. Most of the comments were very constructive and encouragjpg, but having followed the band since August 1980, I must disagree with two points namely that they , lack force in delivery and that they're unprolific in the songwriting dept. Twenty-three songs the band regularly perform are originals. For a band whose age and experience aren't great, you must agree that's . impressive. As for their delivery, you need only ask anyone at a packed Globe last weekend, to confirm my opinion of their drive and power.