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Paul Roberts Leaves The Stranglers (Finally!)

by Greg Bartalos
26 June 2006

This month, PAUL ROBERTS left THE STRANGLERS, after being the group’s singer for the past 16 years, to focus on his own band SOULSEC.

Guitarist BAZ WARNE has assumed lead singing duties and bassist J.J. BURNEL is contributing vocals on a third of the band’s songs, much like he did when HUGH CORNWELL was lead singer and guitarist.

In replacing Cornwell—who also was the group’s leads singer for 16 years—Roberts had enormous shoes to fill. By most accounts Roberts’ feet were too small. Only on 2004’s driving Norfolk Coast did he finally deliver a credible performance.

And in comparing the legacies of Cornwell and Roberts, it’s instructive to look at this month’s release of The Very Best of The Stranglers, which collects the band’s biggest hits from 1977 to 2004. Of the 21 songs, 20 were recorded with Cornwell.

As for why Roberts left, The Stranglers announced through their official web site that the split was “very amicable.” Roberts said much the same there.

However, Burnel told The Burning Up Times web site:

Paul had other things in the way of commitment, like Soulsec, and his SANTANA tribute band. He was obviously frustrated within The Stranglers, and now he can pursue his ambitions. Also, none of his songs were accepted for the new album… I mean, we all put our songs in the melting pot, we always have done, to work on them, but it wasn’t happening with his. There was a lack of commitment.

(Yes, you read right, a Santana cover band…)

My admittedly speculative take on the situation is that the success of Norfolk Coast may ironically have hastened Roberts’ departure. With a record widely considered to be a winner (#40 in Jack’s Top 40 list in issue 55 of the BT), the band’s confidence must have risen. After being in the wilderness for pretty much all of the Nineties, The Stranglers finally rediscovered critical and commercial acclaim and seemed hungry for more. My guess is that Warne was the main reason for this newfound success since Norfolk Coast was his first Stranglers record. Roberts, in contrast, already sang on four lesser albums.

It appears that after Norfolk Coast –- easily Roberts’ best vocal performance—he gained sufficient confidence to seriously consider going solo. This could explain Roberts’ “lack of commitment” to the Stranglers as described by Burnel.

Whereas the Stranglers may have tolerated less than total devotion during the 1990s, Norfolk Coast and Warne’s creative spark may have rejuvenated the group, prompting it to tighten quality control. Roberts said on his web site that he would “give fans the facts as he sees them concerning his departure” in a book he plans to write.

The group is scheduled to release Suite XVI, its 16th studio album, in late September on EMI. With Norfolk Coast putting the Stranglers back in the spotlight, the stakes are even higher for this release as fans and critics alike will be watching closely. Fortunately, the record sounds like it could be a gem based on Burnel’s description of it (scroll down to “The Next Album”).

My pleasure in seeing this British institution sans Roberts comes from the perspective of a long-time fan who always rooted for the group. Unlike certain Cornwell fans that stopped following the group after he left, I didn’t; I bought every release and caught them whenever they came to the U.S., which became an increasingly rare occurence.

I bear no ill will toward Roberts as an individual. In fact, I met him in Paris in 2004 along with the rest of the band and they were extremely friendly and gracious. But if being nice was reason enough to be the lead singer of the Stranglers… well, you see my point. Roberts simply was the wrong man for the job.

My biggest problem with Roberts is that while he technically is a good singer, his deep voice has a way of getting in the way of the music. Instead of complementing a song, it often exudes a self important “look at me” quality that is cloying, distracting, and perhaps born of insecurity.

Roberts’ camp stage presence can be irritating too. He is prone to jumping about shirtless, swinging the mic and snapping his fingers while sharply turning his head left, then right, then left in the most unnatural manner possible, trying it seems to assume an IGGY POP persona. But he isn’t Iggy. In my eyes, Roberts tries hard to be something he isn’t. But what is he? It’s hard to say. Admittedly, it has to be difficult to replace a legend like Cornwell, but I don’t think that Roberts quite found himself as a singer until Norfolk Coast.

That said, Roberts must be given credit for one crucial fact. Had he not joined the band we might not be where we are today. In Burnel’s own words as recently told to the Burning Up Times web site: “…had it not been for Paul, I doubt if we would have continued when Hugh left.”

But now that the band has regained its footing and Roberts is confident about his solo career, a split seems like the best scenario for all parties involved.

Is Warne the right replacement? Based on what I have heard, his voice sounds up to the task. He also is an excellent guitarist and understands that presence has to do not with over-the-top stage antics but rather with intangibles. I hope for and predict a major revival for the group this year based on their new line up, the upcoming release of Suite XVI, and a heavy slate of upcoming gigs. May the Stranglers again fly straight with perfection!

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Comments

Spot on!!!


— simon    2006-06-27 10:22    #

Hi Simon. Thanks! I saw on your site the news about the Stranglers planning to play 10 dates in the U.S. later this year. Do you have any more details?


— Greg Bartalos    2006-06-27 12:03    #

Not yet Greg, I will post as soon as I hear. I would take a guess at November ( a little bird told me that was a strong possibilty).


— simon    2006-06-27 14:10    #

Thanks Simon. If that little bird chirps anywhere near you by all means do share!


— Greg Bartalos    2006-06-27 14:12    #

A good and thoughtful assessment, Greg. I too continued to follow the Strangles after Cornwell left But nothing they released really excited me until Norfolk Coast. I guess it is due to Warne’s influence. Maybe Roberts was being coaxed into singing in that style—it sure sounded a lot like Cornwell—and decided he didn’t want any more of it. Now that Cornwell has been recording for some time, perhaps he could be persuaded to join the Stranglers again! That would be extremely exciting.


— Mike Clarke    2006-06-28 23:10    #

Hi Mike. I appreciate your comments. That’s an interesting point about Roberts voice sounding like Cornwell’s. I think the whole album is evocative of the group’s old sound, which likely explains some of its success. I think Roberts also disciplined his voice more on Norfolk Coast and did a better job of not having it steal the limelight.

As for Cornwell rejoining the group, it’’s certainly possible. Cornwell hasn’t broken out after 16 years as a solo artist so odds are that he will keep churning out quality records and touring incessantly. The problem for him is that neither his solo records or touring is likely netting him much. He probably still makes much of his money from Stranglers royalties.

As for the Stranglers they have less of a need for a reunion. Afterall, Norfolk Coast proved they could do well with Cornwell. And they seem to be riding high at the moment.

But, all parties involved must know that IF they did reunite that it would be a huge event and the members would likely pull in enough money from touring that they could retire quite comfortably. Hugh, who as his solo career progressed, mixed more and more Stranglers songs into his repertoire, recently changed the font of his name on his web site to match that of the Stranglers. An odd decision after 16 years. Is he sending out a subtle clue?

And now that Roberts is gone it would be easy enough to slide Cornwell back in. But there also remains one sticky issue: Baz. Both Cornwell and Baz sing and play guitar. One possibility would be for Cornwell to sing without guitar and let Baz stick to guitar but I doubt that. Of course the band could let go of Baz but I don’t see that for a couple reasons.

Baz was instrumental (no pun intended) in bringing the group recent success. He also appears to be very close with J.J. Burnel. Because J.J. puts a considerable premium on loyalty—both in giving it and getting it—I can’t imagine him pushing out Warne even though some concert promoters might insist that a reunion consist exclusively of the original members.

In terms of motivation it should be noted that Stranglers drummer Jet Black is to my knowledge the oldest active drummer in rock, clocking in at a stunning 68 years old (Charlie Watts of the Rolling Stones is but a kid at 65).

A reunion could happen but I doubt it. I put the odds at about 1 in 4. I’m happy to see what the Stranglers IV can pull off. A reunion, while thrilling, would in a sense be a step back. It clearly would not mark the natural evolution of things and would only be born of the almighty buck. But then again, the Cornwell/Burnel split created so much drama, angst and baggage that perhaps for them it wouldn’t just be about money. It would also offer closure.


— Greg Bartalos    2006-06-30 02:25    #

Hi I think Baz is doing verry well
as a leed singer.
If you like to here him singing,
turn to YOU-TUBE.
daniella


— daniella    2006-08-22 20:14    #

Hi Daniella. Thanks for writing! I’ve seen clips of Baz and agree that he seems up to the job! Can’t wait to hear the new album. It’s just around the corner!


— Greg Bartalos    2006-08-22 22:20    #

Greg, I agree with everything you said. I thought that for awhile…....but obviously you can write words better than me ;-)

I think Paul did find his voice 2001 onwards, and Baz has re-invented the band, he got the band back to the fans,inc me. He has so much to give to the band…...and the fans.

Nice one !


— SantfeKuss    2006-09-23 17:55    #

Hi SantefeKuss,

Thanks for the kind words.

Stay tuned for my review of Suite XVI.

If you like Baz you should really like their new record.


— Greg Bartalos    2006-09-23 19:51    #

come on Hugh rejoining the stranhler5s would destroy what is an awesome band now. BAZ Warne with JJ jet and Daves awesome keyboards woul be an awkward song writing combination and lets face it a [ainful rendition of old songs and no passion for the newer greater stuff.


— Mark    2006-09-23 20:23    #

Mark, after hearing Suite XVI I consider the odds of any reunion to be minscule. Basically, the Stranglers have found themselves at the same time that Hugh is doing well creatively, but most likely not commercially. After hearing Suite XVI I hope they do not reunite. Like you said, it would destroy what currently is an awesome band.


— Greg Bartalos    2006-09-23 20:37    #

Please no more ‘Hugh’ rejoining coments. It wont and shouldnt happen. Baz has brought allive a great institution and not varried it, energised it. Suite 16 is amazing.
For all the ‘cornwell fools alive on here, imagine if ‘no mor heroes never existed and was the,next album by Paul or Baz it would be slated as shit in this day and age.
I just love all stranglers 74 -96 no matter who contributes, there is a core element and a different driving force


— Mark    2006-09-23 20:55    #

Mark, see my Suite XVI review, which will likely be up within a couple days. I think you’ll like it.


— Greg Bartalos    2006-09-23 21:02    #

I don’t think Hugh would ever rejoin but strang[l]er things have happened.
In the late nineties Hugh was creating some pretty convincing stuff whilst the Stranglers output was a bit ropey especially with Paul Robert’s cheesy vocals over the top. Now I think (knowing Hugh from his recent books) he must be feeling a bit green. i mean, his last album was pretty good but he’s now trying to market a load of live stuff of material past and present. Seems a bit tired to me.
I’m glad the Stranglers returned to a four piece pub band type group. the idea of a pretty boy lead singer seems anathema to the bands previous image.


— quentin    2006-09-25 21:56    #

wow good feature what is the big takeover which country are you from. I found the stranglers article on www.kadoodle.com

all the best Gary.


— GARY BRIDGE    2006-09-26 12:44    #

Hi Quentin. In the late 90’s Hugh had the upper hand. “Guilty” was easily his best solo album. And he made that when the Stranglers were going nowhere fast. Now, the Stranglers are unquestionably back. Hugh is still churning out quality albums but he isn’t on EMI and won’t ever draw the kind of crowds that the Stranglers do.


— Greg Bartalos    2006-09-26 13:40    #

Thanks for the compliment Gary. BigTakeover.com and the magazine upon which it is based are both based in the U.S. Look here to learn more about the magazine, which has been published for more than 25 years.


— Greg Bartalos    2006-09-26 13:45    #

I can assure you guys a Cornwell/Stranglers reunion just won’t happen.Having heard the latest album and saw them twice inside 4 days,the boys are back.The 4 piece format is a joy to behold hearing JJ singing 5 Minutes again will make the hair on the back of your neck stand up.Baz also adds a new dimension to the Cornwell sung songs.I saw the boys in Glasgow and Aberdeen and believe me they back and all the more menacing for it.They have added a lot of classics to the set…Thrown Away,Burning Up Time,Threatened,London Lady,Nuclear Device as well as the new stuff which sounds fantastic.You are in for a treat,but lets put the Cornwell thing to bed once and for all…..he ain’t coming back.


— John Scott    2006-09-27 16:25    #

hi ya all – just saw the boyz in Glasgow on saturday night – they were great. JJ’s involvement means there is a serious swing in the music towards his presence, Baz was great. The new album is building on the Norfolk coast, but would not knock PR’s contribution. there have been a few cracking songs produced like time to die etc. during his time.
Anyway, they were great and have been a fan since 1976 (wow that long!!)
long live the best band in the world in their present format – dont go back it would be..Toulouse – always forward…to the Suite smell of success…...
long live the boyz


— Mikeeeee from jockland    2006-09-29 16:26    #

maybe even 1978, that long ago cant even remember proprely!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


— Mikeeeee from jockland    2006-10-01 16:27    #

Not sure Paul was as bad as you make out but reading what you put does make some sense. Also agree Norfolk Coast was the best album for years. Until I heard Suite 16 which blows away the past 16 years work. It will be a classic and should chart if it wasn’t for the fact that the Stranglers are not hip at the moment. Anyone who can should go and see their latest tour.


— John Whitehouse    2006-10-02 12:07    #

Have just listened to new album for first time and would like to add some first impression comments.
OK, I’m going to do this in point form as I’ve had a couple of beers to celebrate this new listening and it’s easier that way!

1. Can’t really tell who is singing on many of the songs! Apart from Sommat outa nowt of course! It always struck me that Paul Roberts was singing like JJ in North Winds mode (with his own creative input of course). Now Baz seems to be singing like Paul (who sounds like JJ in North Winds) with a hint of the trademark Cornwell sneer. And of course there’s the Feline like whisper style going on. In any case it is all in keeping with the Stranglers sound so I have no problem with this.
There’s less of the Robertsian pretentiousness in the vocal delivery.

2. “I hate you” should have been left off! Petty, weak lyrics. Sure Cornwell was maybe guilty of the same low standard with “Leave me alone” from Hi Fi, but at least that was a better tune.

3. There are hints of Baz’s guitar greatness but why fade out in his moment of glory?

4. JJ bass sounds great (vintage stuff)

5. Jet and Dave likewise.

6. A few iffy lyrics – “but don’t tell my momma or you’ll make her cry” = corny

7. Some songs really show true Stranglers greatness that’s to say God given catchy tunes with a sophisticated but left field edge (Pete Waterman said the two best English bands were the Beatles and the Stranglers) “Bless you…” exceptional.

8. Overall a pounding album in true Stranglers mode with a few forgiveable flaws.

9. OK i need another beer.


— quentin    2006-10-05 10:08    #

Like many Stranglers fans i have seen them play many times live. From the early ‘Raven’ tour to the latest and most recent gigs promoting both suite 16 and nostalgic tunes. Their drive and commitment to their craft is one that should be respected by ANY musician. They are unique. God bless the stranglers and all those who sail with them.


— Daz Thomas    2006-11-15 22:29    #

perfect article! this essay sums up the feelings we’ve all had about such an important band. i was given a bag of punk records in 1981 ( i was 11 )by a guy who played cricket with my dad. that poor sod probably kicked himself 10,000 times over the years, because he gave me all of his mint condition stranglers stuff. tee hee hee.

no disrespect to paul, he seems like a genuinely nice bloke, but i always felt he was too “rock star” for the band. too showy. the stranglers have always maintained a certain truth to their music and i think paul kind of used it as a vehicle to show off. until, of course, norfolk coast where they got it right. suite xvi is a gem. i’m hoping that the next album will be their finest yet. and i don’t care if it takes a few years…although jet might.
— ged denton    2006-11-27 02:04    #

Could never stand Paul Roberts being the frontman of The Stranglers he just wasn’t the right choice. I hated the finger snapping routines. Now with Ba Warne I have somehow started to fall back in love with them once again


— Paul    2006-11-28 07:22    #