The Bolshoi were different. Their songs were dark and subversive, sufficient evidence for many critics to corral them under the"Gothic" banner at the time of their debut album Friends - but they really only "flirted" with Goth. They oozed dark, pensive lyrics supported with inventive pop-goth guitar making them nearly impossible to categorize. The suburban surrealism of the lyrics was rooted in the stories of characters onthe fringes of society rather than brooding romantics, with an undercurrent ofboredom, inadequacy, and violence. Not the usual themes for pop success! Based in London, the band consisted of Trevor Tanner (lead vocals, guitar), Nick Chown (bass), Jan Kalicki (drums), and Paul Clark (keyboards). With powerfullive shows The Bolshoi built a substantial following before disbanding in 1988.