Thomas Paul Burgess

Ruefrex were one of Northern Ireland’s most popular and uncompromising punk rock bands.

Emerging from the Belfast street-gang culture of the late-1970s, the group, inspired by The Clash, enjoyed a turbulent, decade-long career. They played for millions on CNN and Channel 4, toured with The Pogues and recorded the controversial ‘The Wild Colonial Boy’, which attacked American donations to Northern Irish terrorist organisations. Throughout it all, founder member, songwriter and spokesperson Thomas Paul Burgess ensured the band remained faithful to their Protestant, working-class origins. This candid memoir takes us on a journey from the streets of Belfast to encounters with U2, Shane MacGowan, The Cure, The Fall and Seamus Heaney. From strife-torn 1970s Belfast to bohemian London, Wild colonial boys tells the story of a punk band who refused to give up and stayed true to their punk roots. Takes readers on an unforgettable journey through the 80s Irish music scene with a backstage pass to encounters with iconic figures like U2, Shane MacGowan, The Cure, The Fall, and even the legendary Seamus Heaney. • Dive into the compelling narrative woven by Thomas Paul Burgess as he candidly shares the highs and lows of Ruefrex's tumultuous punk rock journey. • The lively, accessible writing style immerses you in the raw energy of the punk era, making it a page-turner for music enthusiasts and memoir lovers alike.