Photograph
The Men Of 992, There Goes Johnnies Airforce, The CasualTies, Balloon Command
1982

After Iron Lung fragmented Sinuf Mood and Sbilts continued to make music together with a view to forming a new band. Balloon Command was the embryo that developed into The Men of 992. Mr Mood introduced a fellow railwayman who was a big fan of Iron Lungs tapes after having to listen to them whilst immobilised in hospital after surviving a serious train crash. Nigel Hebblethwaite or Nev as we call him brought his Korg MS10 (cue enthusing from synth geeks again)into the fray. We shared a mutual love for Devo and The Birthday Party. We did much rehearsing at Nevs house and Clayton Residents Association. Nev was sometimes accompanied by his twin brother Fats who blew amazing atonal sax. This pic was taken at a Residents Association get together. Drums were provided by a very cheesy Boss Doctor Rhythm which Mr Mood seemed to be able to program. Nev did vocals as well and many of his lyrics still appear in current tunes. "West is Taste" is one that stood the test of time and Premier Rock combo the CasualTies still perform it.... "Beyond the Dawn there lies the night, Beyond the edge there lies a fright, Beyond the edge,Beyond the pale, There lies baby like a stranded Whale".......Both Nev and Fats seem to have vapourised unfortunately......