The self-titled debut album by noisy Kiwi rock pioneers the Gordons has won the inaugural Independent Music NZ Classic Record Award, which will be presented at the Taite Music Prize ceremony next Wednesday.
The aim of the award, voted on by members of the local music industry and media, is to acknowledge New Zealand's rich history of making albums that continue to inspire today.
The Gordons, made up of Alister Parker, John Halvorsen and Brent McLachlan, formed in 1980. Their debut EP Future Shock and The Gordons, released in 1981, both had a formative influence on musicians such as Shayne Carter and bands like Shihad and Head Like a Hole. By the late 80s the band had morphed into the equally loud sonic force known as Bailter Space.
"I'm shocked," said Halvorsen, when told of the news this week.
"I feel grateful to be acknowledged after all these years by the industry - it's our first ever award. I'm humbled and grateful."
