Black Grape

Black Grape is a British rock band formed in 1993 by former Happy Mondays members Shaun Ryder and Bez, along with rapper Kermit (Paul Leveridge). Emerging from Manchester, the band mixed alternative rock with electronic music, funk, and hip-hop influences, creating a distinctive blend of sounds that echoed the "Madchester" scene of the late 1980s and early '90s. Their debut album, *It's Great When You're Straight...Yeah*, was released in 1995 to critical acclaim and commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Albums Chart. The album featured hit singles such as "In the Name of the Father" and "Reverend Black Grape," which showcased Ryder's unique vocal style and knack for witty, often surreal lyrics. Black Grape's energetic performances and eclectic sound were widely praised, yet the band struggled with internal issues, leading to their disbandment in 1998 after the release of their second album, *Stupid Stupid Stupid*. The group reunited in 2015, revitalizing interest in their music, and released a comeback album, *Pop Voodoo*, in 2017. Known for their hedonistic style and bold experimentation, Black Grape remains an influential figure in British rock music.