The self appointed Indie Police, however, were on high alert; scanning the airwaves for any sign of cherished bands having the audacity to try and sell some records. Then, at the first sign of breaking ranks, they would begin the joyful task of knocking them down. Putting them back in their box where they belonged. To them being popular was a heinous crime.
And so it was with Jesus Jones and their second album 'Doubt'. The buzzing rock guitars and heavy samples from their debut were pushed into the background and instead were replaced with dance beats, pop grooves and hit singles. Three hit singles; 'Real Real Real', 'International Bright Young Thing' and the magnificent anthem of optimism 'Right Here, Right Now'. The Indie Police were not happy. Not one bit. Jesus Jones had, in their eyes, sold out when in reality the only thing that was sold out was their records. But if they cared to listen properly the indie aesthetic was still there; no-one can tell me that a storming track like 'Stripped' with it dense guitar heavy sound and screaming vocals was recorded with a place in the top 40 in mind.
It is quite a strange view to hold when surely, if you like a band or musician, then you want them to do well - to be successful so every one can share in your passion. Instead the Indie Police preferred a band to be their little secret - a group with a select following who they got to pick. They wanted to be in control and determine who should and shouldn't be a member of their gang. Being popular, or selling out, changes that as 'anyone' could start to buy the records. Whatever next!
Despite the attempted misdirection of the Indie Police, 'Doubt' is a top album and deservedly sold well both in the UK and the US. It spawned hit singles and made Jesus Jones a household name. As a real fan I was, in the parlance of our time, truly made up for them.
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