The Mod revival of the late 1970s and early 1980s wasn’t just a nostalgic nod to the sleek style and sound of the 1960s—it was a vibrant cultural movement that reinvigorated British music, fashion, and youth culture. The sharp-dressed Mods were back, riding scooters and setting trends, with a new wave of bands that took inspiration from the original 60s Mod scene but infused it with the energy of punk, ska, and power pop. These 80s Mod bands not only captured the essence of the Mod lifestyle but also left an indelible mark on the music world that still resonates today.
In this blog, we’ll explore five iconic Mod bands of the 80s that we still love and celebrate. From their unique sounds to their influence on fashion and culture, these bands helped define the 80s Mod revival and continue to inspire new generations of fans.
1. The Jam: The Leaders of the Mod Revival
When it comes to 80s Mod bands, you can’t start without mentioning The Jam. Formed in 1972 but rising to prominence in the late 70s and early 80s, The Jam, led by Paul Weller, were the undisputed leaders of the Mod revival. With their sharp suits, political lyrics, and energetic blend of punk and R&B, The Jam quickly became the face of the new Mod movement.
Musical Impact
The Jam’s music was rooted in the same influences that shaped the original 60s Mod scene—soul, rhythm and blues, and British rock—but with a harder, punk-inspired edge. Tracks like “Down in the Tube Station at Midnight,” “Town Called Malice,” and “The Eton Rifles” captured the disillusionment and frustrations of British youth in the late 70s and early 80s, while also paying homage to the sleek sounds of bands like The Who and The Kinks.
Paul Weller’s songwriting was politically charged and socially conscious, which resonated with Mods who were looking for more than just catchy tunes—they wanted a soundtrack to their lives. The band’s ability to blend sharp lyricism with punchy, melodic music made them one of the most influential Mod bands of the 80s.
Fashion Influence
The Jam’s style was as iconic as their music. Known for their slim-cut suits, button-down shirts, and mod accessories like harrington jackets and parkas, they set the tone for the 80s Mod look. Weller’s sense of style, in particular, became emblematic of the revival, combining clean, tailored pieces with a rebellious edge.
If you’re looking to channel The Jam’s style, check out our collection of Harrington jackets and mod shirts for a sharp, classic look.
2. The Specials: The Pioneers of 2-Tone Ska and Mod
While not strictly a Mod band in the traditional sense, The Specials were key players in the Mod revival thanks to their unique blend of ska, punk, and Mod aesthetics. Emerging from the Coventry music scene in the late 70s, The Specials were a major force in the 2-Tone ska movement, which drew heavily from both the Jamaican ska sound and the style and attitude of the Mods.
Musical Impact
The Specials’ music was a perfect fusion of upbeat ska rhythms, punk energy, and socially conscious lyrics. Their self-titled debut album, The Specials (1979), was a critical and commercial success, and tracks like “Ghost Town,” “Too Much Too Young,” and “A Message to You, Rudy” became anthems for a generation. Their songs often tackled issues like unemployment, racial tension, and disillusionment with the British political system, making them relatable to the working-class youth of the time.
Though they leaned more towards ska than pure Mod, The Specials’ influence on the Mod scene was undeniable. Their music, style, and message aligned with the Mod revival ethos, and they often shared stages with Mod bands, creating a close connection between the two movements.
Fashion Influence
The Specials were known for their distinctive 2-Tone fashion, which blended traditional Mod elements with ska-inspired styles. Think sharp suits, skinny ties, and pork pie hats, all in a monochromatic black-and-white colour scheme. This look became iconic in the 80s, with Mods and ska fans alike adopting it as their own.
To capture a bit of The Specials' signature style, explore our Mod accessories and skinny ties to add a touch of 2-Tone flair to your wardrobe.
3. The Style Council: Paul Weller’s Post-Jam Mod Evolution
After the breakup of The Jam in 1982, Paul Weller continued to shape the Mod revival with his new band, The Style Council. Formed with keyboardist Mick Talbot, The Style Council took a more soulful, jazz-influenced approach to Mod music, moving away from the punk edge of The Jam and into a smoother, more sophisticated sound.
Musical Impact
The Style Council’s music was a fusion of soul, jazz, pop, and funk, with an emphasis on political and social themes. Tracks like “Shout to the Top!,” “Walls Come Tumbling Down!,” and “Long Hot Summer” showcased Weller’s evolution as a songwriter, as he moved towards more melodic and groove-oriented music.
The band’s smooth, soulful sound was a natural progression from the Mod influences that had shaped The Jam, but with a more mature, experimental twist. The Style Council remained firmly rooted in the Mod tradition while also pushing the boundaries of what Mod music could be in the 80s.
Fashion Influence
The Style Council’s fashion was more laid-back and sophisticated than the sharp, punk-infused style of The Jam. Weller and Talbot embraced a preppy, European-inspired look, often sporting blazers, sweaters, and tailored trousers. Their style was clean, elegant, and perfectly suited to their more polished sound.
For a more sophisticated Mod look, check out our range of smart-casual Mod clothing to recreate The Style Council’s elegant style.
4. Secret Affair: The Soundtrack of the Mod Revival
Another key band of the 80s Mod revival, Secret Affair formed in 1978 and quickly became one of the leading voices of the movement. Alongside The Jam, they helped define the sound and style of the 80s Mod bands, with their high-energy, power pop sound and stylish Mod looks.
Musical Impact
Secret Affair’s music was heavily influenced by 60s Mod bands like The Small Faces and The Who, but with a modern twist. Their debut album, Glory Boys (1979), and its follow-up, Behind Closed Doors (1980), featured anthemic tracks like “Time for Action” and “My World,” which became rallying cries for the Mod revival.
Their sound was a blend of power pop, soul, and rhythm and blues, which perfectly captured the spirit of the new generation of Mods. Secret Affair’s music was punchy, energetic, and full of youthful exuberance—everything a Mod band of the 80s should be.
Fashion Influence
Secret Affair’s look was quintessential Mod: sharp suits, skinny ties, and polished shoes. Their clean, tailored aesthetic became a hallmark of the Mod revival, influencing countless fans to adopt a similar style.
If you want to channel Secret Affair’s sharp style, take a look at our Mod suits and tailored Mod trousers for that polished, revival look.
5. The Lambrettas: Mod-Pop Energy with a Ska Twist
The Lambrettas were one of the most successful bands to emerge from the 80s Mod revival, bringing a fun, upbeat twist to the genre. Named after the iconic Italian scooters that were a symbol of Mod culture, The Lambrettas combined power pop with ska influences to create an infectious sound that resonated with young Mods across Britain.
Musical Impact
The Lambrettas’ biggest hit, “Poison Ivy,” was a cover of the Leiber and Stoller classic, but it was their original tracks like “D-a-a-ance” and “Beat Boys in the Jet Age” that solidified their place in Mod history. Their music was light, fun, and energetic, blending the fast-paced rhythms of power pop with the upbeat grooves of ska.
Although they weren’t as politically charged as bands like The Jam or The Specials, The Lambrettas’ feel-good music captured the playful, carefree side of the Mod revival. Their songs were perfect for scooter rallies, all-nighters, and parties, and their infectious energy made them one of the most beloved Mod bands of the 80s.
Fashion Influence
The Lambrettas’ fashion was a mix of classic Mod style and 80s pop influences. They embraced the usual Mod staples—slim-fit trousers, polo shirts, and tailored jackets—but with a more casual, playful twist. Their look was more relaxed than some of their contemporaries, but still undeniably stylish.
For a more casual Mod look inspired by The Lambrettas, explore our collection of polo shirts and casual Mod footwear to capture that laid-back 80s vibe.
Conclusion
The 80s Mod revival brought a new energy to the Mod scene, blending the classic sounds and styles of the 60s with the rebellious spirit of punk, ska, and power pop. Bands like The Jam, The Specials, The Style Council, Secret Affair, and The Lambrettas defined this era, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to influence music and fashion today.
At Mazeys, we celebrate the timeless style of the Mods with our collection of Mod-inspired clothing. Whether you’re looking to recreate the sharp look of The Jam or the playful energy of The Lambrettas, we’ve got everything you need to keep the Mod flame alive. Explore our full range of Mod clothing and accessories and join us in celebrating the enduring influence of 80s Mod bands.