The band was formed by Iain Matthews and Andy Roberts in 1972. All
their gigs have been overseas (they're all Brits, tho Iain has lived in
the States for many years, Austin since '89) The past month they've
been recording a new album in Austin and staying with Iain at his home
south of town. His wife Veronique has, in effect, run a bed &
breakfast. Other current members are Mark Griffiths and Clive Gregson.
The show was a delight, and there was a good house who were lucky enough
to witness this rare event. They did 3 Amelia Earhart songs (the
subject of their first album - one fan had a copy of it, and how they
have changed in appearance; they looked exactly as you might imagine a
band to look at that time) They did a lovely version of "Can't Let Go"
(which was recorded for the new album - 16 songs recorded; 12 yet to be
chosen) Clive said he used to play for the Spice Girls and was known as
Old Spice. All four mostly played guitars, and there were some
wonderful guitar choruses. One highlight was "There Ain't a Whole Lot
of Money in this Town" Chris Searles played percussion (also on the
album)
Clive saw a sign (Charlie's Tattoo's, while you wait), years ago, which
inspired one song. He mentioned another fan mentioning another sign
spotted in Kentucky listing the top 10 Kentuckians. Mohammed Ali was
#1; Cassius Clay was #9!!!
I've seen Iain close a set with Richard Thompson's wonderful a capella
song about Graceland. It was a real treat to hear the quartet perform
it.
Walter Morgan recorded the concert for a later broadcast on KUT and KUTX
(Austin/San Angelo). The tentative date is Aug 2.
The reason for no U.S. dates is no American booker. If you know of any
one who might be interested in filling those shoes, please email me
privately and I can pass it on to Iain.
Dan Eggleston
Austin TX