JANUARY 1979: We started receiving phone calls here at B.H. Central of some urgency from John Pidgeon, one of our English writers who also toils for Melody Maker. Normally a subdued Britisher, John was extremely excited about this new band, the Police. Hed written a story for Melody Maker, and he wanted us to run one as well. It was a strange name for a band, we mused in our usual caffeine stupor, and promptly went back to proofreading. Even English excitement can overwhelm you, though, and when Simon Friths voice was added to the din, we decided to run the story. Then the record hit the office and excitement reigned for, the next few weeks. This guys voice was just so...different. "Strangely appealing" was one office opinion. "Almost painful," came from another enthusiast.