Code 1
History
Born out of the South London and South East punk and Oi! scene, Code 1 formed in early 2006 after years of friendship, gig‑going, and drunken promises between founding members Jason on vocals, Steve, and Louize on guitar. Regular faces at venues like The Cartoon in Croydon and the Kings Arms in Acton, the trio finally committed to starting a band at the end of 2005, kicking off rehearsals in January 2006.
Through the tight‑knit punk circuit, the first lineup came together quickly. A recommendation from Jana of Overload brought drummer Cherry into the fold, and a chance meeting at a Croydon gig added bassist Steve. Early rehearsals at Scream Studios revealed the need for a lineup shift, and punk stalwart Sid (ex‑Section 5, Superyob) stepped in temporarily, helping shape the band’s earliest songs. Soon after, Jason recruited old workmate Glenn, who picked up the bass for the first time and completed the second Code 1 lineup. With backing vocals provided by Millwall Russ and Darn Rustlers.
With rehearsals moved to Northfleet, the band built their first set and hit the stage in August 2006, supporting The Straps at the legendary Hope & Anchor in Islington. From there, Code 1 became a fixture of the UK Oi! and punk circuit, sharing stages with scene heavyweights including The 4‑Skins, UK Subs, Beerzone, Last Resort, The Business, Condemned 84, TMF, The Warriors, and Argy Bargy. Their reputation soon carried them beyond the UK, with gigs across Finland, France, Germany, Spain, Belgium, and a U.S. run with The 4‑Skins.
In 2007, lineup changes brought guitarist Dave into the band permanently, solidifying what became known as the third — and, as the band put it, “hopefully final” — Code 1 lineup. By 2011 Dave had left to play with Vicious Rumours.
Musically, Code 1 deliver straight‑ahead, no‑nonsense British Oi!: tough, melodic street‑punk rooted in working‑class life, football culture, and the spirit of the South London and Kent scenes.
Discography
Officlal Productions
2009 – Telling It Like It Is
2015 – You Won’t Beat Us
2022 – Outlaws of Oi!
2024 – Angry Anthems