Summer has officially arrived in London, and here at Charlotte Street Magazine, we are kicking off the season with an absolute scorcher of a release. If you are a devotee of synth-pop symphonies, new wave nostalgia, or post-punk rhythms, your perfect summer read has just landed.

Blitzed Magazine Issue 27 is officially on our shelves, and this time, the editors are taking us on a sun-drenched trip down memory lane where “Frankie Says Slap on Plenty of Factor 50!”

The Ultimate Summer Road Trip with Holly Johnson

The star of this issue’s front cover is none other than the legendary Holly Johnson. Captured in a striking cover photo credited to Bari Goddard, this issue features an exclusive two-part interview where Holly spends a traditional British day out beside the seaside with Marc Massive, exploring the distinct style and retro charms of Brighton. It’s the ultimate summer feature for anyone who loves UK pop royalty.

Jam-Packed with New Wave & Synth Royalty

Issue 27 doesn't stop there. The Blitzed team has packed this edition with heavy-hitting interviews and retrospectives from the legends who sculpted the soundtrack of the '80s and continue to innovate today. Inside, you’ll find deep-dives and chats with:

• Clare Grogan (Altered Images)
• Martyn Ware (Heaven 17)
• Howard Jones & Nik Kershaw
• Neil Arthur (Blancmange) & independent synth duo EmT
• JoBoxers, Laurie Black, Mark Reeder, and part two of an exclusive chat with Paul King.

Reviews, Festivals & Nostalgia

Looking for your next vinyl purchase? This issue’s review section is massive, covering new releases and reissues from Bronski Beat, Happy Mondays, Hue and Cry, The Durutti Column, and Romeo Void.

Plus, John Jøn Foster gives an insider look at Bronski Beat’s landmark album re-issue, and the team heads across the channel to cover the Out of Line Music Festival in Berlin. From looking back at classic releases by Depeche Mode, Eddy Grant, and Madonna, to celebrating notable milestones for David Sylvian, there is enough music history here to keep you turning pages all summer long.

(And a huge congratulations from the Charlotte Street Magazine team to co-editors Bridget Gray and Kurt on their wedding! Look out for a fun editorial update regarding their newly shared surname at the helm of the magazine.)