The Fall were an English post-punk band, formed in 1976 in Prestwich, Greater Manchester. They had many line-up changes, with vocalist and founder member Mark E. Smith being the only constant member. Their music was generally characterised by Smith's caustic lyrics and sprechgesang vocal delivery, an abrasive, repetitive guitar-driven sound, and tense bass and drum rhythms. Although never achieving widespread mainstream success beyond minor hit singles in the late 1980s and early 1990s, they maintained a strong cult following throughout the years. The Fall have been called "the most prolific band of the British post-punk movement".