[1] This line-up recorded the debut "Don't Go Back" EP on Big Cat UK (catalogue number BBA02) in August 1988)[2] achieving "Single of the Week" in Melody Maker.

A John Peel session, produced by Dale Griffin and recorded at the BBC studios in Golders Green, London, was first broadcast on 21 September 1988 and repeated on 11 October 1988.

[1] In December 1989, the British music magazine NME reported that the Popinjays, along with others such as Power of Dreams, Carter the Unstoppable Sex Machine and The Charlatans, were their pick as 'stars of tomorrow'.

[3] Their debut album, Bang Up To Date With The Popinjays, was released in April 1990,[1] and was followed by a live tour in May and June 1990 with One Little Indian label mates Kitchens of Distinction.

In 1991, The Popinjays signed to US Independent label Alpha International, and the single "Vote Elvis" was released in the United States in April 1991, entering the Billboard Modern Rock Chart the following month peaking at number 17 in June 1991.