198X  (June/November 1979)

In summer 1979 Tonito and Paolo M. recruit Alberto on guitar, and 198X are born. Paolo M. changes his name in Pablito, and in a jokingly spanish calambour the newcomer is baptised Al Todo (Todo in spanish means 'all'). The trio puts together a quick live set for a live performance as Decibel's support band at the 'Sex Party Punk', a arty/fashion event staged at Preart (an art gallery in Milan, 6-21-1979). The event is featured in an issue of 'Punk Artist', a mag directed by Graziano Origa, "the italian Andy Warhol" (???). It was rumoured that even the real Andy Warhol's mag 'Interview' would cover the event (a photographer from the magazine was there taking shots). 198X start toying with the idea of a self-financed EP, but money is lacking. In the meantime, J.S. joins in on second guitar, as the number of original songs grows (Questions, Below Zero, Vietnam, Compromise). The new line-up headlines at Odissea 2001 in Milan (11-26-1979). The gig is reviewed by La Repubblica newspaper. In eraly 1980, just as the group' s members are asked to pose as models for a famous fashion griffe, Paolo M. begins rehearsals with the Gags, his favourite italian band at the time, after sitting in with X-Rated for a couple of rehearsals. Part of the money raised through modeling is invested in a recording session, which Tonito hopes to translate onto plastic. The group books a studio and records 3 numbers for a possible EP release (Below Zero, Compromise and Lowdown), but the results are disappointing and the group disintegrates. Paolo M. joins The Gags and J.S. leaves for London. Tonito will form a new version of 198X, which will play some gigs in the early 80s..