“This is from the first ever gig by The Cult in L.A. at Perkins Palace on 27th July 1984. My recollection is that we actually flew from Buffalo via New York City to Los Angeles the same day and went straight to the gig in a rented van. When we arrived, we found our locally hired amps and drums were in a pile backstage and the opening act, Tupelo Chainsaw Massacre were already playing onstage! Also, we didn't even know The Meteors were playing until we got to the venue and I'd had some history with them when they supported Theatre of Hate… so I wouldn't say relations were super super friendly haha.
It was quite a crazy time in Los Angeles because it was hosting the Olympics a couple of days after we got there and needless to say we were pretty spun out due to the travel, so I don't think it was the best gig we ever played haha.
I remember that some record company executive, who was considering signing us, had brought along John Lydon who I vaguely remember was at the side of the stage.”
Billy - October 2025