Kent band revives classic Medway sound

09 November 2026

Original Kent rockers The Prisoners are bringing the classic Medway sound crashing back into the 21st century. The band, formed in 1979 and instrumental in the garage rock revival four decades ago, have returned with new music - and are preparing for two live shows in Herne Bay at the end of this month.

The Prisoners - named after their predecessor band Trial - were early pioneers of what became known as the Medway sound, an energetic mix of raw garage rock, punk and rhythm-and-blues from the Medway towns in north Kent.

"Some say we were Medway's answer to The Ramones," original guitarist James Taylor told Spotify recently, "but really we were just our own thing. Medway was bigger than us - five towns versus our four-piece band covering Medway, Gravesend, Gillingham and Rochester."

The Medway scene emerged in the early 1980s, with a gritty take on 1960s garage/beat music, blending classic rock & roll energy with punk attitude. While Billy Childish remains the sound's most famous proponent, many believe The Prisoners helped establish the area's reputation for independent music.

The Prisoners' sharp guitar work and Taylor's distinctive organ playing, mixing Vox organ tones with psychedelic and mod influences, made them central to the Medway scene. Their 1982 debut A Taste of Pink! still resonates with fans. Their upcoming shows at Herne Bay's Preston Street Club on 22-23 February will showcase new material.

"Our music always reflected working class spirit," Taylor told Kent Online. "The Medway sound was DIY before the term existed. No rules - just making noise and having fun. We were all a bit mischievous during the Medway Revival."

Original members Graham Day, Allan Crockford and Johnny Symons have reunited. With contemporary bands like LaFontaines, The Courettes and The Len Price 3 carrying the Medway influence, their return feels timely.