Public Image Limited Expand Metal Box

Reformed post-punk icons Public Image Limited are set to release an expanded edition of their seminal album 'Metal Box'.

Formed in the aftermath of the Sex Pistols' implosion, Public Image Limited began as a way for John Lydon to reclaim his freedom. Vilified and deified in equal measure, the singer demanded space to live his own life.

Often performing with their backs to the crowd in an attempt to subvert expectations, Public Image Limited was a concerted attempt to push the barriers of rock music. Taking on board elements of dub reggae, free jazz and more the group seemed to exist in a universe of their own.

Debut album 'First Edition' was relatively straight forward, but nothing could prepare fans for 'Metal Box'. Released in 1979 the record pushed the definition of an album, with a metal container holding three twelve inchs.

No tracklisting was given, with fans expected to place the songs together in any order they pleased. The music itself was just as thought provoking, dealing with religion, death and other topics not usually associated with rock songwriting.

Now a sprightly 30 years old, 'Metal Box' is set to get the expansive treatment. A new 'metal' version of the album is due to be released, containing the material split across three CDs for the first time.

Alongside this a 64-track, four-CD rarities version of 'Metal Box' – dubbed 'Plastic Box' – will also be released. The new release contains the entire album alongside a raft of rarities including the band's John Peel sessions and remixes.

With Public Image Limited set to play the album in full on a forthcoming British tour, the new release is a timely reminder of the enduring influence of 'Metal Box'.

Public Image Limited are set to release the new editions of 'Metal Box' on December 14th.