The Wedding Present – George Best

Emerging from the thriving British indie rock scene of the 1980s, with an influence that continues to this day, The Wedding President - one of Radio One DJ legend John Peel's absolute favorite bands - are releasing their renowned debut album "George Best" (1987) and the chronologically following album sampler "Tommy" as a re-release via Play It Again Sam.

It immediately cemented their reputation as one of the sharpest, most emotionally charged indie bands of the era. Led by David Gedge, the album bursts with jangly guitars, relentless tempos, and wry, lovelorn lyrics that capture the messy realism of young relationships. Its raw energy and kitchen-sink honesty became a defining sound of British indie pop’s late-’80s underground.

Produced by Chris Allison, the record balances nervous urgency with heartfelt vulnerability, turning breakups and small disappointments into something almost heroic. It’s a document of unfiltered emotion and jangling noise that still feels timeless, influencing countless indie bands in the years that followed.

Reviews

“All twelve songs on George Best bristle with a wiry, guitar-driven energy that would influence British indie pop for decades.” – AllMusic

“Gedge’s guitar pop soundtracked heartache and frustration with wry humour and frantic strumming, defining a generation of lovelorn indie fans.” – The Guardian

“The Wedding Present’s debut is a frenetic, emotional rush — jangly, funny, and painfully honest.” – NME

“George Best remains one of the great debut albums of the ’80s, full of heart, wit and frantic energy.” – Record Collector