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SWEET 7"/45'S SINGLE'S:
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CUT ABOVE THE REST - ISSUE 44 (Published 01/05/2006)
Well here is the latest news within the Sweet camp and quite a lot has gone on since the last issue, below is all the
accumulated information in chronological order acquired from various official sources.
Apparently it has been on the cards for a while that Tony O'Hora was contemplating resigning as lead vocalist/bassist with the Sweet. Seems to have been a decision not taken lightly by the Midlands based rocker. Speculation regarding his position within the band has been a topic within the Sweet rumor mill for quite a few months now following his non-appearance on the last Russian tour, It was announced last October (17th 2005) - that Tony O'Hora was to leave Andy Scott's Sweet!
Seems that our Tony has been torn between his allegiance to the band, family commitments and other external factors such as a University opportunity as well as solo recording contract etc. Tony obviously has been in great demand and something had to give. Unfortunately with the Sweet being a very successful 'none stop touring machine' with all the problems that this can bring, Tony reluctantly decided to call a day on his musical duties within the group, read over the following pages for his reasons and feelings.
Andy posted the following message regarding the matter: I feel that I have to comment on the recent speculation surrounding Tony's future with the band. The truth is that he does not want to leave and we certainly do not want him to go but unavoidable circumstances have brought us to a crossroads which has to be resolved for all our sakes. Everyone is aware that this is the best line-up we have had but unless some miracle happens it cannot continue. Tony has issues to deal with, both personal (which will remain so but if he needs us we are there for him) and professional. Many people know that he has two careers, the band and his work at a Music College in Birmingham. He excels at both as you would expect. I believe he has a future with the band and beyond, he also loves the challenge of teaching young musicians, engineers and kids who just want to be involved with entertainment and they love and respect him. The epicentre of all of this is that next year he will leave Sweet. There is no animosity and if he needs a sabbatical to think things through, away from all pressure, then we will give it to him. To find a replacement who can fit in as perfectly as Tony will be difficult, Fantastic singer, good bassist and all round brilliant bloke. The upshot is that this task has to be tackled with our intention to keep the standards as high as they have been so with that in mind we need a new singer/bass player. The king is dead, long live the king - Sweet will still be trying to be the best on the "live" circuit, come what may. If there is a singer who thinks he has the stamina, vocal range and ability to step into position then he should get in touch soonest.
We have just returned from a very successful tour of Russia with a pretty radical change in the line-up. Steve moved to Vocals/Bass and Phil Lanzon (Uriah Heep) took over Keys. The pedigree speaks for itself. As musicians we knew we could play our way out of any situation and we were proved right. Vocally it was strong, far better than our expectations and the audience reaction was tremendous. Steve does not want to be the singer but I would like to thank him for stepping up and giving his all, thanks to Bruce who's voice gets stronger with every show and to Phil for returning to Russia for the umpteenth time and keeping our spirits up! Vodka and Champagne mainly. This line-up will be seen on a couple of shows in Germany while we make the necessary changes.
I am sorry to be the bearer of such news but the sooner we sort this the better. Assuring you of my best intentions at all times, onwards and upwards! Best regards, Andy Scott
The following press release was issued in January regarding Tony O'Hora's replacement, it named ex Shy/Siam Vocalist Tony Mills as the new Sweet vocalist:
Unfortunately, after several recent gigs in Denmark, the band and Tony Mills decided to go their separate ways. An announcement dated 8.02.06 was issued by Andy Scott it went:
Tony O'Hora responded by issuing the following statement in January on his decision to quit the Sweet: "After nearly 3 years with The Sweet I am very sorry to have to make the decision to leave the band. I have had some of the best times of my life and have traveled half way round the world with my best friends; I will miss the camaraderie the most. For the last year I have been working full time at a music college as well as traveling every weekend. Working seven days a week I knew at some point that something would have to give.
Frontiers Records is pleased to announce the release of Tony O'Hora's debut solo album entitled "Escape Into The Sun" on January 27th 2006. TONY O'HORA is best know as singer for PRAYING MANTIS in their most successful albums "Forever In Time" and "Nowhere To Hide" and is now singer for Andy Scott's SWEET. His voice has been considered one of the trademarks of the excellence of the two MANTIS releases and in this new solo album O'Hora is able to make his talent shine once again. "I needed to take the time necessary to express the lyric and emotion. So although the recordings took quite a bit longer than we
anticipated" say the British singer, "I am incredibly proud of this album and it contains the best performances I've ever recorded".
Sweet also played a few shows in Scandinavia Sweden) last October/November with a temporary, substitute vocalist called 'Mark Thompson-Smith' (see pic opposite.) I managed to get a statement from Sweet's drummer Bruce Bisland regarding the situation with Mark in the band, his statement read:
So what I hear you all ask is the situation regarding the lead vocalist within the Sweet, well I’ve waited almost three months to find out for you. After numerous telephone calls, e-mails to Andy this is the latest news he wishes to disclose.
The band have also played some amazing gigs in some amazing Stadiums around Europe. One of note was the show at the 'Sazka Arena', Prague, in the Czech Republic last October. The band played on the same stage as fellow 70's Rockers Slade, (now fronted by Mal McNulty one time Sweet lead vocalist.) In fact I managed to get hold of the programme/itinerary schedule from Kevin Smith, which listed the whole weekends events, including flight times, staff members etc. (See opposite for a insight into how every detail of the the band's movement is organized, very interesting stuff!)
Liberty/EMI are very pleased to announce the release on 27 February, of the brand new studio album 'Back To The Drive' from legendary rock goddess Suzi Quatro. 'Back to the Drive' is a deep personal glimpse into Suzi's private world with each track representing a significant chapter of her life. As she explains: 'I give you my Rock and Roll'. I give you my heart and soul' for the two can not be separated! Teaming up with Steve Grant and Andy Scott (The Sweet), and long time co-writer Mike Chapman who wrote the title track, this album is an emotional tour de force which truly rocks.
A new Sweet photograph book has hit the market, it originates from Germany and seems a great idea, although the retail asking price of £60 (Postage free) may be a quite a deterrent on the number of copies it sells.
A colorful rainbow of photographs, that's the only way a book on The Sweet could possibly turn out. This band lived the motto of 'Sex, Drugs and Rock 'n' Roll', with the photographer Bubi Heilemann always in close pursuit. Altogether he must have photographed around 200 photo sessions with The Sweet: On tour, backstage, home stories, at weddings and christening. A special treat would be the double-page spread of Mick Tucker baring all!! Bubi Heilemann took pictures of The Sweet throughout the 70s. Brian Connolly left the band in 1979 to start another band: The New Sweet. He died of a heart attack in 1997. The other three kept the project going for a long time. However, Mick Tucker died of leukemia in 2002. Steve Priest lives in the US, his musical output seems limited to his private needs. Only Andy Scott is still on the road, he put a new band together still called The Sweet, and he wrote a beautiful word of greeting for this volume.
Steve Priest has just issued a solo CD of Home demos, obscure tracks and early pre Sweet releases. The collection of material is titled 'Priest's Precious Poems' (see sleeve design opposite) is a 21 track compilation directly available only from Steve himself. The full track listing is: Rock Itis (Rock Eye Lids), Devil's Eyes, Last time you saw me, Take me to the country, Talk to Me, Jealousy *, Surf-o-Matic*, That's how I like it*, The Shimmering Axe*, Talk to me *, My Little Angel**, Main Street**, She can look right through me**, Little Angel ***, Sweet Dream ***, Living for the Night ***, You don't want me no more***, BBC Radio Interview 1972, We all Love Tiny Tim (Peter Pan & Wendy), KLSX Classic Cuts , Another Dust Bites the One. All tracks obtained from the Archives of Steve Priest, (* - 4 track home demos. **
w/Marco DelMar. ***w/David Arkenstone.)
We also hear news on the possible release of a second ‘Elastic Band’ album, the band that featured a very youthful Andy Scott within its ranks. News that recordings made by the band in 1966 for Granada Television under the name ‘The Kool’ have recently been unearthed. Apparently Andy said that “it was usual at the time for bands to record tunes, jingles, instrumentals etc and sell them onto a publisher who would then pay the group for their services then sell the material onto TV companies who would later include them in their TV programmes.” This is exactly what ‘The Elastic Band’ did and hopefully these recordings may just surface onto CD within the next 12 months!
I don't know if many of you are familiar with the band 'Angel' (the British version not the American 'White Satin Pomp Rockers' of the same name.) Glam-rock band Angel, was a concept from Andy Scott and Mick Tucker from Sweet. The band was formed in 1974 from the members of Pebbles, at a time when bands such as Slade, Sweet and Suzi Quatro were dominating the European charts. The band members were: Brian Johnson (Lead Vocals) Joe Ryan - Guitar, Martin Kemp - Bass, Steve Rickard - Drums & Bob Banasiak -Guitar, (Bob replaced Joe in August 1974.)
For the first time in thirty one years Angel will be performing one live gig which is scheduled to be held in Southend on Sea. It will be at Club EGO, the venue previously known as Zero 6, and will be hosted by 70s DJ Brian Ayling (aka Barney Stripes). The night is in aid of Lady McAdden Breast Screening Unit, a charity (affectionately known as B.U.S.T.)Ê which is dedicated to fighting breast cancer. Supporting such a worthwhile cause is a fitting tribute to the memory of the many talented musicians who are no longer with us, many of whom succumbed to cancer or related conditions. In particular, Norman Kemp (brother of bass player Martin) who died last year from renal cancer, Mick Tucker (the Sweet's drummer) who died from leukemia in 2002 and Lee Brilleaux (Dr. Feelgood) who died from lymphoma in 1994. Also remembered are: Brian Connolly, Les Gray, Dave Walker, Roy Morgan and Peter King along with many others who touched our lives but whose own lives were tragically cut short. So let's celebrate their lives.' Dig out your platform shoes, put your watches back 30 years and re-live a time when glam rocked!
As you can all imagine, the fact that Andy & his wife Maddy have decided to part have caused Andy certain problems, nevertheless he seemed in good spirits when we last spoke and seems to be dealing with the situation by touring and working nonstop, (which is probably the best way to get over things - Editor)
Andy even got invited to play at a couple of Charity events recently:
Andy also guested on the Planet Rock digital radio station, last February (14th) the programme played the Sweet classic 'Set Me Free' and Andy plugged the new 'Best Of Sweet' CD release! Andy's also still pursuing his interest in radio, he told me that he hopes to eventually host his own music radio programme!
On the subject of `Devize's III', well I asked Andy if he was considering another unique special event this year, he said he doesn't still feel up to doing it at the moment, in fact there won't be one this year, although he didn't discount it in 2006. He also said that when it does come about he has a idea for it in a different venue, more news on this when we get it!
Many thanks once again to Australian Sweet roadie Garry O'Hoy for loaning me his Sweet tour diary notes, (see enclosed Part 1 of his report regarding the tour, Look out for the completion of his diary in the next issue!) The band are keen to return to Australia once more, once they negotiate plans with local promoters!
Check out within/ pages 34 for details on the bands recent back catalogue CD reissues. It seems the first pressing of the back catalogue have been a total success and fully sold out in record time. As with the groups `The Very Best Of Sweet' - SONY/BMG Records CD release, which I believe hit the upper regions of the album charts (IÕm informed it may have reached number 8 at one point!)
On the subject of a new band CD release? When I asked Andy about one he joking said "No way, cause every time we release a new album we lose a lead vocalist!" Joking aside he did say that the band did at some point intend to release a new CD but said Òhe would be lying if he said it was going to come out this year," he thought that the next release would be "a return to a Hard Rock type of recording," and recorded in "the old way", (ie songs written and fully rehearsed then go into the studio and put down live, instead of constant overdubs and band members laying down parts individually! ) He also felt it was "getting increasingly harder to get radio air play, hence making it virtually impossible to get a new album of Sweet recordings into the charts. (Despite this, let's all hope we won't have to wait to long for another Sweet release - Editor.)
Andy says he is still in contact with Steve Priest, although when I asked Andy about it he said that when he last tried to get it touch with the legendary bassist (I believe Andy spent Christmas and new year in New York last year,) unfortunately he didn't have much luck, he thinks it was because Steve and his family were also away on vacation for the Christmas festivities so Steve couldn't return any Andy's calls. He says that Steve is well and fans of www.thesweet.com website again will have noticed that Steve did converse with fans over some Sweet related subjects recently!
Regarding the Shane Richie (Eastenders actor and friend of the Sweet) 40th birthday bash which involved The Sweet last year. Well I finally managed to get hold of a copy of the 'The Big Issue - In the North' magazine, (Issue number 509 cover dated March 22nd 2004,) and I was going to reprint the whole article but the interview only mentions the The Sweet briefly and only includes a minuscule photograph of Shane on stage with the band, that was so poor in quality to reproduce that in the end I decided to drop the idea. Nevertheless if any of you want me to reprint the 4 page Shane Richie Special feature in the next issue, contact me, if enough of you feel interested then I'll feature it!
Bruce Bisland & Statetrooper completed a series of shows earlier this year, and are even scheduled to headline a six band gig at the 'The Boardwalk', Sheffield Rock Festival 29.05.05, (tickets are priced £8 each). The band apparently no longer includes Sweet vocalist Tony O'Hora on Bass, Tony admitted to me that although he enjoyed his time in the band, it was only ever a temporary position and that due to extensive Sweet commitments he had decided to ask the band to replace him. The bands brilliant new CD release titled 'The Calling' is out now! For more for details on how to obtain the CD, band information, (including a recent Statetrooper band picture including Tony O'Hora!) check out the bands website at: www.statetrooper.co.uk
Many thanks to everyone who sent in the various Sweet press articles printed in this issue. It seems the message got through with quite a few of you sending in articles, snippets of news etc which when collated altogether make a issue of the fanzine far more interesting and informative. If you have any similar then just send them in! (New e mail address: cos.cimino@ntlworld.com / or write to the usual fanzine address: 30, Rosewood Avenue, Stockton Brook, S-O-T, Staffs, ST9 9PA, GB as any help would be gratefully received!
One final thing I would like to share with you, I don't normally recommend or include other bands, artists in the fanzine, but I wish to thank Martin Tremain, for sending me a copy of the CD single by the strangely named group/duo called 'Devilish Presley'.
CUT ABOVE THE REST - ISSUE 42 (Published 01/11/2004)
Spoke to Andy recently (October 10th,) whereby he mentioned the sad fact that he and his wife Maddy had split up, he didn’t want to go into to much detail regarding this matter as it is personal and best kept between themselves. He did ask me to thank everyone for their messages and cards of support that he has received, hopefully things will get resolved amicably one way or another over the coming months. Due to problems that arise in such situations Andy has had to review certain things and decided to postpone a couple of events that had been planned, (see else where for details,) he apologizes if facts beyond his control have affected anyone in any way!
Reports and views from fans regarding Andy and the band are very positive, with new boy and Sweet vocalist/bassist `Tony O'Hora' coming in for some exceptional praise from many fans not yet familiar with the new line up. Everyone seems to agree that he is a real find and a gem of a singer with a fantastic and distinctive voice, who has fitted into the band effortlessly! In fact I took two skeptical friends of mine to a recent Sweet show and both were won over within 3 numbers, and these friends of mine have seen numerous artists, they are very hard to impress, and by the end of the show had to agree that my passion for this band over the last 30 years had not been misplaced. Many thanks to Andy, again truly awesome, Steve, loved the crazy classical composer look, inspired guitar & keyboards, Bruce's as usual drumming his heart out, and Tony for that voice! Thanks guys for another wonderful show you really made my night! On the subject of The Sweet's lead singer I hope to get permission to reprint transcripts of 2/3 Internet interviews given by Tony O'Hora to Jon Hinchliffe during his time with British rockers 'Praying Mantis', the interviews aired on a Praying Mantis website give an in depth perspective into the new Sweet lead vocalist & bassist's personality. Look out for these two special features next issue!
RECENT SWEET SHOWS
Regarding live shows well it was great to see the band perform live in the UK recently, what with their 3 February shows and their Scottish, Torquay, Southampton, West Midlands concerts, find enclosed reports on a few of them, reaction was unanimous with many fans quoted as saying they were some of the best shows we had seen for years, what with the bands emphasis now on a rockier set. One enthusiastic message from Janet Hughes (for The Robin 2, Bilston, show 13.2.04.) went: Hello Cos, How's your ears after Friday night? Just wanted to say thank you for a lovely evening, it was great meeting you finally and of course Stewart & Paul. It's nice to put a name to a face. What a fantastic show, I was really please to hear such classics as Cockroach, Windy City and Lost Angels. "What did you think'? (Absolutely bloody brilliant - Editor)
Sorry I couldn't wish you and Stewart Good night, but I had to make a very speedy retreat due to excruciating pain with my feet. Did you notice half way through Fox On The Run I removed my boots, if I hadn't I'm sure I would have fainted. And there was Andy thinking he'd seen the last of girls fainting in the audience!!!! I won't wear them again. Sensible shoes will be the order of the day for Peterborough. Speak to you soon, Regards, Janet Hughes. Full reports on the Bilston & The Cressett, Peterborough, 21.2.04 shows follow within this issue. The other August British shows (i.e. Alfreton Leisure Centre 6.8.04 & The Rock Cafe Alfreton 2000 - Stourbridge 7.8.04) were also excellent, unfortunately I could only made the Alfreton & Stourbridge shows due to holiday commitments.
Shame I was out of the country for the London Hammersmith Apollo - Les Grey Memorial show 25.8.04, as I really would have loved to see have been there, it apparently featured a multitude of artists : Slade, The Sweet, Suzi Quatro, The Tremeloes, The Rubettes featuring Alan Williams, Les McKeown's Bay City Rollers, Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Titch, Racey & The Escorts.
The Sweet performed 3 tracks: Fox On The Run, Blockbuster & Ballroom Blitz. The last song also featured Eastender - Shane Richie on guitar and Emerdale actress - Deena Payne (Steve Grant's wife) on backing vocals. Apparently Steve Grants keyboards had been mysteriously switched off for the first two songs, but not to be stopped Steve proceeded to fill all the keyboard parts (including the Fox intro ?) on guitar, what genius's we now have amidst the Sweet ranks! (Andy stated that some fans had commented that they preferred the new 'Keyboard less' versions to the originals, strange don't think so myself - Editor.) All profits from the show were donated to the following charities: Cancer Research (1089464), Marie Curie (207994), and Diabetes UK (215199)
I was also informed that Andy appeared on BBC breakfast television and ITV's London News programme along side Slades - Don Powel to promote the Les Grey concert and to give their thoughts and recollections on the great Mud lead singer and front man.
As mentioned last issue Andy and the band were eventually offered another series of shows down under in Australia and the whole of September was assigned to that territory, the band played about 19 in 24 days shows during they stay.
Regarding the Australian Tour, well I have just received a whole batch of press cuttings from Aussie Sweet fan Garry O'Hoy relating to the recent Oz tour, many thanks to him, see within this issue for reprints. Garry says that 'Andy did a load of radio and press interviews during the tour, but a major problem was that the articles usually appeared in local papers before he and the band hit town, this made it very hard for him to track down everything printed, published by the band,' Garry nevertheless forwarded a photograph of one time 80's Sweet vocalist 'Paul Mario Day' to me, when Paul met up with the band, (see pic below.) Reports emanating from Australia were very encouraging for the band. A newly shorn Andy Scott said 'It was great to go to Australia again, as it was nine years since the band had visited that country, and also wonderful to meet up with Paul Mario Day again. He went onto say that Paul no longer seems to perform in a band which is a real shame as he thought Paul was a very underrated vocalist and one who's voice he really liked.' I asked whether Paul got invited to perform with the band on stage? Andy said apparently that 'Paul had decided prior that he didn't wish to perform with them, but felt that if he had pushed the matter more, then maybe Paul would have agreed," (A real, real shame - Editor.) Andy hopes, (promoters willing), to tour Australia again later next year, as he felt with Australia being such a massive country that there were certain areas and audiences that the band could not get to, he also said that "some of the shows in Queensland and Melbourne especially stood out!" Andy and the band also appeared on Australian Breakfast TV i.e. on the 'Bert Newton show', a long time friend of the band who Andy describes as "a cross between Michael Parkinson and Des O'Connor". I asked Andy About his new 'shorter hair style, look', (see pic above), was it just for the Australian tour, or what? He laughed and commented that he had the same sort of hair style 20 years ago and that he liked it because it no longer took him an hour to get his hair dry after a show, and that people said he now looked a lot younger! Many thanks once again to Australian Sweet roadie Garry O'Hoy for supplying the 5/6 pages of press articles within this issue regarding the tour. Look out for possibly even more Australian reports in the next issue of the fanzine, as Garry says he might even loan me his recent Sweet tour diary to publish!
Andy has informed me after 2003Õs 'Glitz Blitz & Hitz 70's' tour (that featured Showaddywaddy, the Sweet & The Rubettes,) they are once more lined up for another series of British shows in order to expose the band and their new material. He said that the tours promoters - (again) `Flying Music' have contracted the band to headline the whole tour this time, (I believe possibly around 40 hectic dates over three long months, starting mid February 2005 and ending in April 2005).
Andy hoped last time that they accepted the tour that it would lead to further shows, and greater opportunities for the band. Well low and behold the tour did have the necessary effect, with another full tour in the can but this time with this the Sweet in their rightful position, headlining every show! Support this time comes again from The Rubettes and new addition Sailor.
Regarding other live UK shows, well there maybe two gigs booked prior to the 3 month Glam Rock Tour i.e.
These two shows WILL feature the bands heavier set list, from all era's", (as the Glam Rock Tour will probably feature mainly their Poppier hits set,) Andy says he may even set a competition via the fanzine, or various Sweet websites, so that twenty or so fans get the chance to 'meet and greet the band', i.e. ask questions, socialize etc at the Bilston concert. He even said the band may have to put in some extra band practice to learn even more past Sweet classics, as these two gigs will only include the bands heavier set, so be warned! More British shows will be arranged later for the year. The band are at present once more touring Europe (Germany actually throughout November & December,)
We in Britain almost had something exciting to look out for, and that’s was the proposed `Devize's III' weekender scheduled for December 3rd & 4th 2004. Unfortunately due to circumstances out of Andy’s control these planned shows have been postponed until later next year. On the subject of Devize's, it appears that the last show 'Devizes's II' - recorded in April 13th 2002, has been released as a double DVD set, I'm informed that certain musical outlets such as ebay.com and Malibou Records are selling the last 'Andy Scott & Steve Grant - Devizes's II' show,(unofficial though it may be, at £19.99 + p&p). This is a totally unique performance by Andy & Steve, recorded in front of 100 dedicated Sweet fans in a pub atmosphere near to Andy’s home, it includes 11 acoustic songs (filmed in Black & White unfortunately) linked by commentary from Andy. To obtain a copy of this release as well as many others Sweet books, CD's, DVDs i.e., The Collection including All That Glitter as a bonus DVD £17.99, Ballroom Hitz - £17.99, The Devize's sessions 2 X DVD disc £19.99, Live at the Capitol DVD £17.99, Live at the Marquee DVD £17.99 & Glitz Blitz & Hits DVD £17.99. All DVDs are New, Unplayed, Mint. - Prices add £1.49 Postage then 25p. or £3.49 for overseas. Contact Carl Stinson at: maliburecordsuk@aol.com or write to Carl, at 28 Parsonage Park Drive, Fordingbridge, Hampshire, SP6 1QS. Alternatively you can also write to: Kevin Smith, 5 Culvers Close, Keynsham, Bristol, BS31 2FG. Visit his website: www.wizardaudiovisual.co.uk
Regarding the Shane Richie (East enders actor & star friend of the Sweet) 40th birthday bash. Well Shane stated that he was intending to get up on stage with the band and perform Hellraiser at the party, well guess what he did just that. Press coverage and pictures of this Star studded event were numerous, but a few are reprinted below !
Why Shane Richie told OK! mag to shove it! (Mar 15 2004 - 3.AM section - themirror.co.uk)
We always knew Shane Richie had a big heart. And now we've got the evidence to prove it. Despite being up to his ears in debt after sinking £500,000 of his own money into the flop film Shoreditch, Shane turned down a lucrative deal with OK! magazine to cover his 40th birthday bash on Saturday.
And we can reveal it was because the mag tried to stop some of his closest friends from going. Clearly it wasn't enough for OK! bosses that Shane, famous as lovable rogue Alfie Moon in East Enders, had invited along soap co-stars Jessie Wallace, Adam Woodyatt, Kim Medcalf and Charlie Brooks.
They still felt a lot of his guests were just too B-list for their glossy mag and started crossing some of his closest friends off the guest list - and replacing them with Celebes Shane has never even met. So he promptly pulled out of the £200,000 OK! deal and sold the rights to charity mag 'The Big Issue' instead - for the sum of £1.10.
A close pal of the star told us: "Shane wanted to invite whoever he felt like. He has lots of friends outside the showbiz world and wanted them to be part of his celebrations as they are all important to him.” When OK! told him what they were doing he was outraged. "He told them where to stick their offer. It wasn't about the money. Shane just wanted to have a great time surrounded by the people who mean the most to him."
No expense was spared for the fancy-dress bash in the grounds of his £2.9million mock-Tudor mansion in Denham, Bucks. Revelers danced to music from live band The Sweet and former Spandau Ballet star Tony Hadley gave a surprise performance. Shane told us: "I've had a really good time. It has been a great night and I couldn't have asked for anything better." And even though it cost him £200,000, the skint star has no regrets. He insisted: "I'm going to have to do a lot of gigs for this, but it's really been worth it."
I also received two e-mails from the Sweet band members regarding the event, one from Tony O'Hora and the other from Bruce Bisland. Their thoughts and recollections on the occasion are printed below: Hi Cos,
The Shane Ritchie party was great. He got up and sang Hellraiser and Ballroom Blitz with us. Everybody loved it and he even mentioned the band/party on Jonathan Ross' TV show. The band are going to be pretty busy over the summer and if you check on Sweet website there are even some UK shows booked.
We're still having a great time and give our thanks to all the fans for their dedication to Sweet music! Don't hesitate to email with any questions etc. Take care, Tony O'Hora.
Hello Cos, The Shane Richie bash, quite a laugh all in all. To start with Shane asked us in the sound check if we could turn it down(shock horror)as he was concerned about Nana Moons ears, which raised a chuckle, and even more of a shock we did! We then did a quick sound check and rehearsed Hellraiser and Blitz with Shane on vocals which was a laugh because even as a huge Sweet fan he didn't know all the words so he just made them up. We then went to the hotel for a wash and brush up and returned to mingle with the other guests for an hour or so before doing our set. Quite funny seeing all these people you see every day on your telly who are nodding and saying hello to you just in case they've met you before but of course have no idea who you are. The highlight for my wife Tina was chatting away to the original Huggy Bear from the Starsky and Hutch TV show as if they were old mates.
We did a short set of the hits being a party, we thought Cockroach might not go down too well, and finished with Shane on vocals doing Hellraiser and Blitz which he seemed to thoroughly enjoy. After that they had a massive fireworks display and then Tony Hadley from Spandau Ballet, his band being the house band who were on before and after us. Unfortunately I have to say that as I was playing in a golf competition at eight in the morning so I left pretty sharpish after we finished.
On my other bands front, well 'Tank' have just fizzled out, I don't know what's going on there, 'Praying Mantis' have done another album without Tony or myself which doesn't seemed to have done much, but I don't really know as we don't keep in contact. I have however just finished a killer album with my old band Statetrooper which is a mix of old songs, some that were for our second album which never happened, and new material written at the end of last year. You can get more info at www.Statetrooper.co.uk Hope that was of some interest, speak to you soon, Bruce Bisland.
On the subject of Statetrooper (the band even featured Tony O'Hora on bass at their recent Camden Underground show) check out the pages within for a 2 page photo interview with the band, and review of their brilliant new CD release titled 'The Calling' which not surprisingly is getting very high praise in many quarters! For more information, or for details on how to obtain the bands latest CD release check out the bands website at: www.statetrooper.co.uk Bruce also features on the latest 'Weapon' CD release titled 'Set the Stage Alight, on 'ZoomClub' records. This is the original NWOBHM band formed in 1980 by guitarist Jeff Summers (ex Wildfire & Statetrooper,) Vocalist Danny Hynes (ex Paddy goes to Holyhead) and Bruce Bisland on drums. After only a handful of gigs they were spotted by fast Eddie Clarke of 'Motorhead' who offered them the support slot on their Ace tour! CD available from all classic rock specialists (on line for £10 + P&P) or at www.zoomclub.com
Also many thanks to Trevor McCrindle for sending me information on a couple of Sweet related DVDs being advertised in the USA of 'The Wandering Crutchlee's', Live in Birmingham in 1989, available at: www.musicstack.com If you search for Andy Scott 2 DVDs show up, this is the band that also featured Andy, Jeff Brown, Mal McNulty & Bruce Bisland. Both these DVD titles are copies made from 'MY original VHS video tape recordings,' nice to know someone is trying to make some money from them, I filmed both shows (Not great quality) but I don't know how they got to be sent, pressed and sold in the USA - Editor?
Another excellent Sweet related site I came across was at www.paddygoes2holyhead.com the 'Official Paddy Goes To Holyhead website'. This band featured the Sweet's Andy Scott, Jeff Brown, Mal McNulty & Bruce Bisland in it's ranks during the 80's. The site includes many photographs taken of the various line ups, including some very young pix of our regular Sweet band members!
On the subject of the bands independently produced live CD recording (taken from the Leicester - Du Montford Hall, 30th April 2003 show) titled '100% LIVE - 2003 ', (catalogue number SWT09) which features new lead vocalist/bassist Tony O'Hora. Well the CD is only available from the band at live Sweet shows, and is different to the one I printed last issue (see opposite for new packaging, the one I featured last issue seems to be a bootleg, or first private pressing.) The new sleeve cover depicts a stage set minus band members, with a inner booklet that includes numerous band photographs the show is of excellent quality and well worth tracking down. Andy says the band may re-release another 100% live CD which this time will include all the bands classic Rock tracks!
On the recording front it appears that Andy and Steve Grant have almost finished working on Suzi Quatro next album. Andy & Steve were recruited to produce the album. Andy says that after nearly a year he and Steve (have co-producer 75% of the recordings) are at the mixing stage of the studio project, which they hope will be released next year, with quite a few labels showing interest in releasing the collaboration with the 70Õs leather rocker! Andy also told me that Suzi had already recorded 7 or 8 songs that he and Steve had written for the album, including the two songs mentioned last issue i.e. 'No Choice', and the other titled 'Born Making Noise!' For more information on this release check out her website: www.suziquatro.com or the Suzi Quatro BBC radio show!
Andy says he is still in regular contact with Steve Priest over various Sweet related, contractual matters, he says that Steve is well and that Steve does occasionally converse with fans over the internet, for evidence of this check out www.thesweet.com I still get loads of letters, requests regarding the Steve Priest Book titled 'Are you ready Steve', well anyone still interested in obtaining a copy can do so by ordering a fully 'autographed' copy directly from the main man himself. Just send $40 and your address details to Steve Priest at: PO Box 140, La Canada, CA 91012, USA !
On the subject of books, anyone interested in obtaining a limited copy of 'The Sweet Diary', should contact: 'Dropshipper' at 28 Parsonage Park Drive, Fordingbridge, Hampshire, SP6 1QS, the price I believe is £20 + p&p!
Just received another note from Australian Sweet fan and fanzine contributor, Mike Duthie, who is still in the process of writing a book about The Sweet. As reported in the last issue Mick has been working on the project for the last six months. Tentatively called "No Matter What They Say." He says in his latest update :I was up in London recently, but only on a flying visit. Next time I hope to be able to get up your way for a chat and a beer or two. I haven't been to see the guys on their tour yet as they're not on this side of the country. I'm hoping to get over to Melbourne in a week or so and see the gigs there. I'll send anything I can when I make it there. Fellow Australian Sweet fan Garry O'Hoy is traveling with them again for the whole tour and I'm sure he'll be happy to contribute to the fanzine, just get in touch with him (Done: Editor).
The book is coming along nicely, albeit slowly. I've been getting fairly good co-operation from a variety of sources, but with the passage of time people drop out of sight or worse... However, I recently interviewed Andy at length. He gave a very detailed account of his early pre-Sweet years which should make for an interesting read. I also caught up with Phil Wainman who is such a nice guy and very easy to talk to. Given his importance to the Sweet's early sound, I spent quite a time with him and picked up a few interesting anecdotes, including the time he took Andy 'outside for a chat'. I have had moderate success getting rare or obscure photos, including some of Wainwright's Gentlemen and am trying hard to praise a few other gems loose. Additionally, I have been negotiating with another Scandinavian Sweet-fan who also largely written a book on The Sweet and we may end up collaborating. At this rate I would hope to see the book published in mid-2005. I'd like to pass on all my thanks for those who have contributed and assisted thus far. I hope you all enjoy the end product. If anybody has any obscure stories, photos, clippings, audio or video material that they think should be included please let me know through the fanzine. Any information of use to the project would be gratefully received. (If you do have anything or wish to help Mick on the mammoth task get in touch with me here at the fanzine on my new e mail address: cos.cimino@ntlworld.com / or write to the usual fanzine address: 30 Rosewood Avenue, Stockton Brook, S-O-T, Staffs, ST9 9PA,GB as any help would be gratefully received!
Many thanks to everyone who sent in the various Sweet press articles printed in this issue. It seems the message got through with quite a few of you sending in articles, snippets of news etc which when collated altogether make a issue of the fanzine far more interesting and informative. For example Michael Mandt in Germany sent in the following image of a Boeing 737-200 from the Ukrainian Air Line with the Sweet name on it (See below) many thanks to Michael for sending in the Sweet related picture. Also many thanks to John Crombie who wrote in regarding the 'NME - Originals Glam' Special magazine - Volume 1 Issue 15 released in August, which was dedicated to many Glam Rock artists, (it has a picture of David Bowie in Ziggy Stardust period costume as it’s cover.) John said "that there are quite a few Sweet articles and pictures in it but not enough to keep us Sweet fans totally happy!" (I've just located a copy and will reprint all the relevant Sweet related stories next issue - Editor.) If you have any similar then just send them in!
CUT ABOVE THE REST - ISSUE 41 (Published 01/02/2004)
February has now become the month of remembrance for all Sweet fans, it really is quite a difficult time for us all, with Brian & Mick's anniversaries coming up during this time. News on our two former Sweet members is at best limited, at worst non existent, let’s hope the British music press, TV stations at least remember our heroes and mention them in their columns, or broadcast something on the band this month, that’s the least they could do! What can I say except be strong, and keep their memories alive in your hearts! As reported last issue, plans for the proposed European Sweet, Mick Tucker Tribute Convention took place last May 31st/June 1st. This tribute event took place in the South West of Holland, and was organized by Hans Ligtenberg and a number of well-known European Sweet fans. Many thanks to Michael Mandt of Berlin, Germany, who sent in a two page report on this event for those of us not lucky enough not to be there. Nothing to report on Steve Priest, unfortunately this issue, he seems to have decided not to do anything on a musical note, if anyone reading this knows different please get in touch! Well, what’s uppermost on the Sweet news, gossip grapevine?
Just received a note from mega Australian Sweet fan and fanzine contributor, Mike Duthie, Mick informs me that he is in the process of writing a book about The Sweet. Mick has been working on the project for the last six months. Tentatively called "No Matter What They Say." He says he has been trying to pull together all the quotes and interviews given by the band and then place them in chronological order. A fair sized and very time consuming job, I’m sure!
He goes on to say that it's been pretty interesting so far and that he’s uncovered a few facts that will be of interest to all Sweet fans. He’s also got access to a few people such as various Wainwright's Gentlemen, album cover artists and associates of Mick, Brian, Andy and Steve over the years. I've made good use of all the old clippings that have appeared in CATR and it's all coming together slowly. Mick hopes to have it published by the end of this year. I also hope to get up to the UK during 2004 to do some interviews.
Mick went on to say that anyone with any information of use to the project would be gratefully received. (If you do have anything or wish to help Mick on the mammoth task get in touch with me here at the fanzine on my new e mail address: cos.cimino@ntlworld.com / or write to the usual fanzine address: 30 Rosewood Avenue, Stockton Brook, S-O-T, Staffs, ST9 9PA,GB as any help would be gratefully received!
After the shock news last issue that Jeff Brown (long time Sweet bassist) had been replaced in the group by Tony O'Hora, it is reported from certain quarters that Jeff is out on a personal campaign against the band for certain so called 'unpaid royalties' that he believes he is owed.
Unfortunately, all he seems to be doing with this unwanted litigation against Andy and the band is to make matters worse. Andy is reluctant to get into a public slinging match with Jeff and says that his so called demands for recompense for are unfounded. Also Jeff has distanced himself from the majority of real Sweet fans by no longer being in fellow 70's act 'Mud' but by now joining the 'Opposition' i.e. Dave Glover's so called 'BC Sweet', a band which we here at the fanzine do not endorse or support. Shame on you Jeff, not only do you try to sue the band you spent the most time with, you knowingly join a group who have resurfaced and have done so much to defame the Sweet cause. Involving yourself in this so called rebel tribute band, will only cause distress to more Sweet fans. As Sweet fan Trevor McCrindle (one of many fans to e mail me), said, and I quote: 'I see that Bloody 'BC Sweet and Jeff Brown' are up and running again', it's deplorable!
On a brighter note, By all reports ex `Onslaught'/`Praying Mantis' and new Sweet vocalist/bassist `Tony O'Hora' is settling into the band really well. Andy says although Tony is not a bass player in the 'true sense' he has improved beyond belief. He says that since Tony joined the group, the band are much more relaxed and that he (Andy) is now the happiest he has been for many a time in the band. He went onto say that so many people have commented on how much more fun the band were on stage, that the stage banter, rapport with the audience was noticeably better, 'Maybe we should of gotten Tony in years ago, as changes were obviously necessary'. So there you have it, one very happy Sweet lead guitarist at the present!
Music fans in the Droitwich and West Midlands area can catch new Sweet lead vocalist Tony O'Hora (whilst not on the road with the Sweet) gigging and performing (with his first choice instrument the Guitar,) backing his lovely vocalist wife as part of a musical duo. I will get the name of the act for you next issue, but anyone managing to get to see 'Tony & spouse', please get in touch with a mini review or photograph!
On the recording front it appears that Andy has been recruited to produce the next album from 70Õs leather rocker and Sweet friend Suzi Quatro! Andy says that after many years of Suzi saying that they should get together and work, record together, she actually telephoned Andy and asked him to get involved on her next studio project. Andy says that he has already enlisted the help of Steve Grant as co-producer. (The duo can both work on her new material, as both have their own separate recording studios), in fact the duo have already co-written two possible songs for the album, one titled 'No Choice', and the other, the strangely titled 'Born Making Noise!'. The band may also try and get Sweet drummer Bruce Bisland in on the recordings, making it almost a complete Sweet association! (Suzi says she also hopes that one time Sweet producer/manager Mike Chapman may also find time to produce a couple of tracks for the release.) More information on this release next issue.
Over the last 10 months The Sweet have played numerous shows all over Europe i.e. Germany, Belgium, & Holland etc. The group even managed to open the Bill at a couple of Heavy Metal festivals, in Germany & Switzerland, that featured 1970's artists 'Golden Earing' and 'Deep Purple', (the German date also featured 1990's German Acts: Bonfire & Halloween!)
Also the last Portsmouth, England 'Open Air show' featured long time Sweet friend/keyboardist Ian Gibbons as a guest replacement for Steve Grant for this one show. Steve unfortunately couldn’t make the gig due to family commitments. From all reports the show went well despite Andy having to play all the guitar parts himself! (It appears Andy and Ian rehearsed at length prior to the show, so that Ian could familiarize himself with the greatest hits live set.
So get your tickets quick to avoid disappointment. I hope to see you at one or more of these shows, I will be the 'Crazy camera wielding guy bumping into you all'. Andy says he hopes to include a Rockier set list of songs, and even some surprises for one or two of these shows, (which may even include him performing lead vocals on 'Dream On' and 'Leap of Faith'!) He went on to say that he was delighted, and looking forward to be invited to perform at a leading London club again i.e. The Camden Underworld. Also that the promoter of the 'The Cresset', Peterborough, show was 'a real Sweet fan at heart, and was doing everything he could to make the occasion as much of a Sweet event as possible, even expecting the band to include an autograph session'. If the promoter gets his way, then expect to meet the band, so take your cameras and something to get signed?
Further shows all over Europe will follow in the coming months, and of interest to our Australasian fans, Andy says that the band have been offered another series of shows down under if they can find a slot in their heavy touring schedule to fit them in!
Here's an unknown fact for you, it seems that one of Sweets biggest fans is 'Shane Richie' the actor/star from Eastenders. He turned up at a gig on the Blitz tour in Croydon last May and stayed around after the set for a drink and a chat with the band. Andy informs me that he and Shane have become friends, and that he and the boys have been invited to perform at Shane’s forthcoming 40th birthday party. Shane has already stated that he is intending to get up on stage with The Sweet and perform 'Hellraiser' at the party. Keep an eye open in the daily press for possible coverage/pictures of this Star studded event! See overleaf for a few press cuttings regarding last years 'Glitz Blitz & Hitz 70's tour that featured Showaddywaddy, Sweet & The Rubettes.
The band have independently produced a live CD recording (taken from the Leicester - Du Montford Hall, 30th April 2003 show) which has been released privately by the band to promote the present band line up, which features new lead vocalist/bassist Tony O'Hora. The CD is titled 'Glitz Blitz & Hitz - Live In Concert' and is available from all live Sweet shows and includes the following track listing: Intro / Hell Raiser, Co Co/Funny Funny/Poppa Joe Medley, Wig-Wam Bam/Little Willy, Teenage Rampage, Love is Like Oxygen (including Fanfare For The Common Man), Block Buster, Fox on the Run & The Ballroom Blitz. The sleeve cover depicts the band plus Andy's dog Dylan, the show is of excellent quality, as it was recorded and engineered by Andy's son Damian Scott, (the sound engineer for The Sweet whilst on the tour.) Apparently Damian is once more in the far East, at time of going to press, with Andy not sure if Damian will be back in time to help with the sound for the British shows, if he is, then here is your chance to catch him at the back of the clubs plying his trade!
On the subject of `Devize's III', well Andy informs me that one will take place but is unsure exactly when. Apparently one was to take place last year, Andy says 'but due to certain parties not being available, the event was impossible to organize! As reported last issue the next one is quoted to be "going to be majorly different, with the possibility of two live Andy Scott sets, and Andy surprisingly even admitting to possibly going to perform parts of the event as 'Bass guitarist', (an instrument he says he originally played way back in his early musical career, prior to joining 'The Elastic Band'!) Lets hope this materializes this year. On the subject of Devize's, it appears that we will not have to wait much longer for a 2 DVD set (unofficial though it may be) to be released, I'm informed/believe, that certain parties, musical outlets are already advertising for sale the last 'Andy Scott & Steve Grant - Devizes's II' show, (which was actually filmed by a American Sweet fan.) If reports are true, and the quality of the material worth watching, then I will give you all the details on how to obtain a copy in the next issue!
After the release of the bands first unofficial DVD titled `Here & Now', distributed by `TDK', which included parts of the last 'Sweet life' studio album, the band see another version of the same material issued in Europe, Titled: 'MOST FAMOUS HITS - THE SWEET - SWEETLIKE' from Planet Song - Germany, Catalogue No: 8560 - 'A Carinco AG' release. MCPS, Medusa Entertainment International Ltd, (Picture disc DVD, length 70:10 mins, PAL, Code 0 - All regions. Made in Germany, See DVD sleeve opposite), but this time it includes the 'full' versions of tracks from the 'Sweetlife' CD release, not just excerpts. Full track listing is as follows: Introduction, Hell Raiser, Block Buster, Fox on the Run, Medley Wig-Wam Bam Little Willy, Sweetlife, You«re Crazy, Airheads, Do it all over again, Never say forever, Medley: Co Co/Funny Funny/PopPa Joe, The Six Teens, Poppa Joe, The Ballroom Blitz, The Six Teens, Action, Lies in your Eyes, Fever of Love & Sweet and Sour. Again this is a unofficial release, you can tell just by the fact that it doesn’t include any pictures of the present Sweet line up on it’s cover, and when I approached Andy regarding the release, surprisingly he was totally unaware of it being sold, and asked me to fax him details on it so that he could discuss it with his lawyers. If you want to own a copy of this DVD, (unfortunately for the band, whether they like it or not,) it is still being sold through on-line outlets such as e bay etc for around £10.
Andy Scott has appeared on numerous British Radio stations, and internet sites last year promoting the new 'Glitz, Blitz & Hitz' DVD, 'Sweetlife' CD etc below is one such story featured by the BBC. (Many thanks to BBC's Radio Wiltshire's for the following item titled 'The Man With The Golden Disc' that they reported last November 24th). It seems that Glam Rock legend - Andy Scott was reunited with a gold disc that had been missing for over 30 years. It appears that 'Hans De Rijbel' worked for a record company in The Netherlands which distributed RCA releases back in the seventies. But in 1982, the company was declared bankrupt. In a storeroom they found a number of gold discs - including a framed version of 'Poppa Joe' which Andy had never received. The solicitor handling the closure of the company allowed the remaining staff to take their pick of the discs and Hans took Sweet's 1972 hit. He recently rediscovered it when tidying up his loft and decided to reunite the gold disc with its rightful owner. After receiving the e-mail telling the story, we contacted Andy Scott who lives in Wiltshire who was delighted by the news and after receiving the disc on Monday came in to show it off. For a picture of Andy and missing 'Poppa Joe' disc, and to hear the interview with Mark Jones and Rachael Hodges from BBC Radio Wiltshire's Drive time programme check out BBC Radio Wiltshire web site at: http://www.bbc.co.uk/wiltshire/going_out/music/sweetgolddisc.shtml
Finally, I also recently made contact with one time great Sweet Lead vocalist/Bassist Mal McNulty, and asked him what if anything he was up to these post Sweet days. Within hours Mal contacted the fanzine to say Hello, and to wish a Happy new year to you all! His message went on to say that 'I'm not doing much at the moment I had a band with a guy called Des Duffy but it fell through due to a few problems and also our drummer Frank Hall became quite ill. At the moment I'm 3/4 of the way through building my own home studio so I can record all of those songs I've had in my head the last 20 years but I've nothing to send you yet - maybe in 6 months time', Bye, Mal.
Just a short note regarding some Sweet 'Popswop' magazines that have come up for sale by Sweet fan Rowan Nixon. Rowan has for sale 19 Popswop magazines, circa 1973, as well as 3 Annuals. They include loads of pictures and articles of the Sweet all in excellent condition. Anyone interested in making him an offer can/should ring him on 07946 043521!
Ok, problems once more with the second Sweet crossword that featured in the last issue of the fanzine, what's new I hear you ask, well, it's not as bad as last time, it's just that this particular crossword included 2 spelling mistakes. Quite important when completing a Crossword one would think, but what the hell it’s only a bit of fun. Quite a few readers pointed the 2 errors out to us, and since this is the second time that Chris Wood (Quiz compiler supreme and general dogs body) has 'cocked up' so we have decided to have him shot! Well we would if we could find him, but since we feel the 2 typing/spelling mistakes did not detract, or have such a profound bearing on the overall outcome of the quiz, we have decided to go ahead and issue the winner with their prize. The correct answers to the Sweet crossword competition set in the last issue, are shown below:
The lucky winner of the 'Mick Tucker Convention Sweet T shirt' was:
P. 'Blockbuster' Stoddart, Grantley Rd, Warren Point, Co Down, BT4 Northern Ireland.
Another Sweet competition or Crossword will be compiled and appear hopefully in the next issue!
'SHY' Front man Joins ANDY SCOTT'S SWEET - 15.01.06
AS SWEET, the band led by former THE SWEET guitarist/vocalist Andy Scott, have announced the addition of SHY front man Tony Mills as the group's new vocalist/bassist.
Commented Mills: "Well, what can I say?!!! As a fan of THE SWEET from my first interest in music in the early '70's THE SWEET, DAVID BOWIE and MOTT THE HOOPLE dominated my life for many years. Vowing to one day be signed to the same record labels as a kid, I eventually achieved this in the mid-'80s with a band called SHY.
After years of touring with SHY and SIAM and working as a solo artist and session musician, the opportunity of working with a hero becomes no less daunting, yet so exciting. "After recording a couple of tracks for Andy Scott, to be asked to join the band was a great surprise and a great honour. "I am very excited to be working with Andy, Steve and Bruce and I'm full of apprehension for the coming weeks.
From a fan to a member in 30 years is a strange journey and yet I feel a great sense of achievement, albeit such a long time. "In dedication to Brian Connolly [late THE SWEET front man], whom I admired greatly, I only hope I can be such a Hellraiser." Added Andy: "Tony O'Hora the group's previous vocalist recommended Tony Mills after seeing him perform last year. They knew each other anyway and Tony O admitted to being a bit of a fan of Tony M. Small world. Their voices are not dissimilar and as a band we are looking forward to the future. His first dates are in Europe (Denmark) at the end of January straight in at the deep end just the same as everyone else!"
WEB SOURCE: http://www.roadrunnerrecords.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=46865
(Tony Mills released a AOR album titled "Freeway to the Afterlife", through 'Z Records' last October (a special limited-edition format included a bonus disc namely "Cruiser", Tony's 2001 release with the label,) and has also extended his contract with Z Records to include an out-and-out AOR release, tentatively due in April this year.. Commented Tony: "As current product that I've written is on general release now through Z Records, I have been approached by the Z crew to write an AOR album for release next year. I'm more than happy about this new contract and have begun compiling the songs already. I will sit hard and fast in the AOR mould and will be writing songs in a style that I'm used to. Z Records will keep you updated on my progress and hopefully I'll get to meet followers of Z's product at the soon to be announced Z Rock festival 2006. Keep you posted!!!" Further solo projects are planned, of which I have no doubt Z Records will keep you posted!" Intro supplied by Dougie & Steve Cummings) WEB SOURCE: http://www.hardrockhouse.com/Interviews/TonyMills.htm
TONY MILLS & THE SWEET PART COMPANY!
"It is with a certain degree of sadness that I can confirm that Sweet are still looking for a singer/bassist. We have just completed a tour of Denmark and it was a mutual decision by all concerned and we stress that this is not personal in any way. Firstly - Tony Mills has a great voice. All of us agree on this. The song "Everything" could have been written for him. However Sweet's music is a bit like Spinal Tap, it crosses into many areas. A journalist once called the band - bubblegum/pop/rock/metal/progressive - I'm still wondering if he got it right.
Tony O'Hora has commented that the job with Sweet has tested him more than any other so this should give everyone some kind of perspective. We wish Tony Mills our sincerest best wishes for the future with his band and solo projects. We will continue in our efforts to find a replacement (remaining as a four-piece is paramount) and in our endeavor to keep standards high. My thanks to the fans on HSH and everywhere else for their understanding and support. Assuring you of my best intentions always," Andy Scott.
Tony Mills issued the following statement on his departure via his website::
"My brief trip out with The Sweet was a short but eventful one. All nice guys and a very professional outfit as well. The songs brought back great memories although I was rather hoping to play heavier material rather than the 70's pop medleys etc. Anyway after a distinct lack of rehearsal, (for which I started to get sick of the sound of my own voice ) the first show fell flat for me and warranted a swap around with regard to who was doing what and this seemed to solve a lot of the problems. Three of the shows were great in Denmark and things seemed to be rocking well. There were unhappy undercurrents though, and after the last night in Copenhagen, we had much discussion in the dressing room and it was decided that we should go our separate ways. Some of me think I shouldn't have embarked on this effective 6 date audition for a world tour, and some of me is glad I did, because it showed up differences between us that could never have been resolved as individuals with their own personalities. Overall, I met a lot of nice people and enjoyed the audiences in Denmark and now it's over. I made a point of not alienating SHY before I agreed to play these shows specifically because I had no intention of calling it a day with SHY and had every intention of fulfilling all commitments that we would continue to accumulate. (And I'm not talking about the Crewe gig that was pulled through lack of ticket sales either!")
WEB SOURCE: http://www.tonymills.net/news.htm For further information on Shy &; Tony Mills then check out the following web site: www.tonymills.net
TONY O'HORA SOLO CD RELEASE.
Although I love performing more than anything else in the world I cannot let this new career chance pass me by. It offers me the long term security that I really need in my life. I've met some wonderful people throughout my travels with the band and I really hope that you will understand that although this has been the hardest decision to make only I can choose. Keep on rockin' Tony O'Hora".
Tony O'Hora appeared on a 'Praying Mantis' CD called 'Forever In Time' in 1998 - ('Pony Canyon International records'). In 1999 Tony O'Hora released an album in a solo project called 'Horakane' with guitarist 'Jamie O'Kane' (See Japanese version CD cover opposite) In 2000 Tony O'Hora appeared on an 'Praying Mantis Cd called 'Nowhere To Hide' - ('Pony Canyon International records'. Tony also appears on Various Artists - Tribute To Boston (2002, Escape Music) Tony O'Hora's has Cover band in his local area called 'Before The Storm' and in 2003 Tony joined Bruce Bisland in Andy Scott's 'The Sweet'.
Tony has just released his first Cd as a solo artist titled 'Escape Into The Sun' last January, press release from his record label printed below:
TONY O'HORA - 'ESCAPE INTO THE SUN' - PRESS RELEASE (Dated 26.10.05.)
The initial concept for this album came from the input of Frontiers Records President, Serafino Perugino who wanted Tony to come back on the scene singing on a record that could bring back the memories of grandeur of the "Nowhere To Hide" album especially. So "he put me in touch with Swedish guitarist/producer Magnus Karlsson (STARBREAKER, ALLEN / LANDE)" explains Tony, "He sent me some demos and I was really impressed. We
worked hard to gradually build up the songs. Magnus' song writing is perfect for my style of singing. I would describe it as melodic rock but with more of an edge". Release date is set on January 27th on Frontiers Records in Europe with King Records caring for the release in Japan.
WEB SOURCE: www.frontiers.it For more news on Tony and his solo CD release, plans, check out his recently new constructed website at: http://www.tonyohora.com/ You can also read more of Tony's CD reviews, back musical activities by logging on to the following web pages: http://www.sweetlife.dk/589 &
http://www.praying-mantis.com/mantis/mts.shtml
http://www.frontiers.it/default.aspx?tabid =49&cond3=where%20ItemID=73
http://www.nehrecords.com/NEWS/Previews/OhoraEscape.htm &
http://www.melodicrock.com/showcase/tonyohora-escapeintothesun.html
MARK THOMPSON-SMITH
"I can't remember how many gigs we did exactly, it was early November. We had told Mark and Joe Burt (who was playing Bass guitar as Mark doesn't play instruments) that the preferred route for the band would be as a four piece but both guys were such great players we thought we would give it a shot as a five piece. So when it was decided that maybe there was still someone out there who could do both jobs there was no animosity at all and the new guys wished everyone well. I have known both guys for many years so it was difficult to disappoint them but we are still friends and as I said they understood the situation from the start.
We are just trying to be the best band that we can and as professionals we have to strive for that! I'm sure that everything will be sorted out soon and that everyone who comes to see us in the future will be thankful that we are taking so much care over it, Bruce Bisland'
Andy also commented on Mark Thompson Smith saying "that he was an excellent singer, although unfortunately he could not play bass guitar."
Mark appeared on a Praying Mantis album titled: 'A Cry for The New World' released in 200000. Mark Thompson-Smith was also in a band called 'Idol Rich', who released the private 'Working girls' 12" in 1985. Although Mark didn't sing on this track. After being replaced by 'Snake' from 'Tobruk' he formed a band called 'Touche', who didn't release anything but eventually became 'Lionsheart' (which included one time Sweet members Chad Brown & Steve Mann. In 1998 Mark released a solo album on Mainframe Records MF101 called "A Far Cry From New Jersey" As well as recording 2 songs for "Metal For Muthas '92' release
(Pony Canyon PCCY-00392) as 'Flight 19'.
For more on Mark check out the Praying Mantis website link: http://www.praying-mantis.com/mantis/sideproj.shtml#MTSmith
NEXT SWEET VOCALIST?
After numerous prospective vocalists had been contacted, candidates interviewed, rehearsals booked etc, the situation was that the band are still at present without a definite person good enough to be confirmed as the future lead singer of ‘The Sweet’. Andy said it wasn’t that these people couldn’t sing, it was just that the back catalogue of Sweet material included so many different types of songs that it was almost impossible to find someone who could do justice to the calibre of songs that the band regularly performed live.
For example there’s all the ‘Rock’ stuff intermingled with all the early ‘Pop’ stuff, people could either do one or the other, not both! Take Tony Mills for example, a excellent choice to sing tracks like the song ‘Everything’, but not up to singing poppier material like ‘Poppa Joe’, Co Co etc (The band also found out to their cost that he also had to learn how to play the Bass guitar as well as learning all the Sweet lyrics.) Apparently no-one has come to the fore who has the ‘range’ that Tony O’Hora has,(Andy went on to talk in some detail about Tony’s exceptional vocal talent, “how he manages to hit notes in the key of C’s and D’s) and unless there’s someone out there good enough to fill Tony O’Hora’s boots then it’s going to be a very tall order asking someone new to replace him! Andy also surprised me, by saying how some potential singers were so frightened of committing to the Sweet, due to the number of live shows the group fitted into the year, it seemed some candidates were put off by the bands very heavy work schedule!
So what are the band going to do, well it appears the band have had to compromise, it seems that Tony O’Hora is willing to continue to perform with the band for some shows until a permanent vocalist/bassist is found. When Tony’s unavailable then Steve Grant has volunteered to take over the singing and bass duties, (Andy says it’s fantastic of him but Steve doesn’t seem to want the job full time!) Although when this happens, it brings up the matter that another person will have to be employed on second guitar or keyboards. So when Steve fills in as vocalist then ‘Phil Lanzon’ ex Sweet now with ‘Uriah Heep’ will guest on keyboards, if Phil, is unable to help then the excellent ‘Steve Mann’ (ex Sweet, 'MSG' and great all round guy) will come back in to help out on guitar and keys! As you can imagine, this is not perfect and as Andy says “causes him no end of headaches trying to involve the right guys, for different Sweet live shows but unfortunately this is the way things will have to stay at present.”
Andy went on to inform me that he could have called in ‘Greg Lake’ to help out as he is a friend from way back having helped Greg out by writing a track ‘Famous last words’ for his solo album. Or Andy could have got ‘Glen Hughes’ (ex ‘Deep Purple’ vocalist and bassist) in to help, but his services would have only been temporary, so it seems that we will just have to wait and see how things pan out for the moment! Andy stressed that it was also vital that the band remained a 4 piece outfit. This decision to try and remain a 4 piece band Andy says is made not just for financial reasons, although the extra cost of additional personnel did have an effect on everything connected with the group. The simple fact that five piece bands caused no end of logistical problems when it came to Hotel accommodation, flying, transport etc i.e. most vehicles, mini van's only allow five or six people to travel, hence including the road/sound crew two band vehicles. Plus taxis would ultimately be required! As Andy said on the subject “any future replacement vocalist also had to fulfill bass guitar duties, this band just does not carry any ‘passengers!’
2005/2006 LIVE SWEET SHOWS.
Apparently the Sweet played a private House warming gig at a Party in Guildford, UK on September 10th 2005. The event even included an ice sculpture bust of Andy Scott, which acted as a Waterfall drinks cooler! The band also played a handful of British dates last year at Worksop, Trowbridge, one at the 'Nostell Priory', Wakefield, another at the 'The Rock 2000 Cafe', Stourbridge, etc Many thanks to everyone who e mailed me these shows pity I couldn't get you to send in full length reports, are you all so shy out there, or don't you just have the time?
Anyway one brief note from Dave Reynolds-Hanson, regarding the Sweet's - Nostell Priory, West Yorkshire show (Sun 7th August), went: "the gig was very good although I'm more into the heavier side of the Sweet, you know the band's more obscure album tracks as well as their '3 piece' stuff (I really miss Steve Priest in the band for that reason.) The whole event was very good and went well apart from the expensive food prices and a distinct lack of Sweet merchandise of items to buy, which I'm sure would have sold really well." Many thanks Dave.
Tony's decision to concentrate on family matters and his other solo projects caused by the band quite a few headaches, for example the Sweet were contracted to complete a two week long tour of Russian cities during October. After a few rehearsals the band decided to switch keyboardist/guitarist Steve Grant to lead vocals & bass guitar and managed to recruit 'Uriah Heep' and former Sweet keyboardist 'Phil Lanzon' to guest on keyboard duties. Steve Grant informed me that he and Andy thought that these shows were the most fun the band had had on tour in a very long time, seems the band thrive under pressure! It also proves one other thing, if you are a member of the Sweet you have to multi -instrumental and multi-talented !!
(To see some photographs during the Russian tour taken by Mikhail Vaneev at the Novosibirsk gig on October 8th 2005. together with some by Vadim Okladnikov taken at the Ektarinburg Russia, of the Sweet featuring Steve on lead vocals and bass check out the following website link/source: http://www.thesweet.com/page4.html
The Sweet have played a couple of British Sweet already i.e. at The Robin 2 - Bilston 11.02.06. which saw the return of Tony O’Hora back to the frontline, (although only temporarily, as the band had just split with new vocalist Tony Mills days earlier!) Andy said, during the show of Tony O'Hora's return to the Sweet ranks that "the jigsaw is now complete and the band really functions as a unit!"
A last minute show was organized by the cast of TV soap 'Emerdale' at St Georges Hall - Bradford, 12.02.06 a benefit event in aid of Policewoman 'Sharon Beshenivsky' who was tragically shot and killed. A close aid to the Sweet informed me that the Bradford Gala Variety Show gig went surprisingly well, during the day we all felt as if we shouldn't be there. The show consisted of actors, a magician, a comedian and stage performers singing hits from West end musicals so we did feel a bit out of place but when we did our bit. 3 songs, Blockbuster, Wig Wam Bam Little Willy and The Ballroom Blitz the crowd loved it and apparently we made a big impact on the show so in the end a job well done!
The band are at present once more touring Europe throughout the year with shows and dates scheduled all over the place. The Highlight of the summer could be when the band perform at a major Swedish Rock Festival in Sšlvesborg supporting 'Deep Purple' & 'Journey' on the 10th of June! We do have a couple of English shows that have been lined up at:
1. Civic Hall - Trowbridge, Wiltshire 30.09.06.
2. Huntingdon Hall - Worcester 02.12.06 - Tickets: 01905 611427.
with the possibility of more shows to be added. I also hope to contact Sweet's agent Nigel Kerr and list any new live British dates on the Cut above the rest website: www.cutabovetherest.org.u so please check it out when your Internet surfing!
SWEET PRODUCED 'SUZI QUATRO' RELEASE!
The brand new studio album Suzi Quatro album titled 'Back To The Drive' the CD was released on February 27th 2006 on the Liberty/EMI Record label (CD Catalogue number: 3506162.) for Germany and the UK was announced. With the first single "Back Drive The Drive" released on 20th February 2006. The album features Sweet members Andy Scott and Steve Grant, the duo wrote, 6 of the 12 tracks featured, produced and played on the whole album, along side other guest musicians including the Sweet's drummer Bruce Bisland!
Album track listing: Back To The Drive, 15 Minutes of Fame, Duality, I Don't Do Gentle, I'll Walk Through The Fire With You, Wasted Moments, Rockin' In The Free World ,No Choice, Sometimes Love Is Letting Go, Dancing In The Wind, Free The Butterfly & Born Makin' Noise.
Official Press Release Stated:
'Back to the Drive' Wasted Moments, Born making Noise and a excellent cover of Neil Young's 'Rockin In The Free World' all showcase Suzi at her gutsy best, whilst a softer side is revealed through ballads such as'Sometimes Love Is Letting Go' and 'Free the Butterfly'.
Not only in production has 'Back To The Drive' been a highly successful collaborative experience; Paul Jones joined on harmonica, original band member Len Tuckey added guitar and daughter Laura Tuckey sung the duet 'I'll walk through the fire with you'.
This is definitely one of Suzi's finest recordings to date, timeless and evolving Suzi will be announcing UK tour dates soon. The single 'Back To The Drive' is out on 20th Feb. The official press launch for 'Back To The Drive' will be held at the London Hard Rock cafe on February 23rd 2006 in conjunction with Capitol Gold. 'LEGENDS LIVE'!
WEB SOURCE: http://www.kingsizetaylor.com/SuzieQuattro/sqrelease2.html & www.suziquatro.com
I heard that Andy Scott and Steve Grant the records producers did not attend the releases official press launch in London. Andy said that he decided against attending the launch party it wasn't the kind of thing he enjoyed. H e also said that he was "a little disappointed in the way the Suzi project was turning out." He felt that having worked so long on the album, the record label missed the opportunity for Suzi in having a hit record by choosing the Mike Chapman title track as a single to launch the CD. He felt that EMI should have gone with the ballad 'I'll Walk Through The Fire With You' as first single choice. He also felt that if Suzi with all her TV work, fame, high profile, couldn't get a chart hit with this release then the Sweet would never manage to do so so either!" Andy went on to say that he and Steve hoped that the release would lead to some television work, possibly even backing Suzi on tour in some capacity, unfortunately this was now looking a very remote prospect!"
NEW SWEET PHOTO BOOK
The book includes pix of: THE SWEET Live on Tour/At Home/Studio & Backstage. Photographs by Wolfgang 'Bubi Heilemann'. Co-Author Sabine Thomas. It includes 320 Pages, approx. 250 photographs, in Large format hardback, 24 x 30 cm / 9.5 x 11.8 Inches. Double-coated heavy photographic printing paper, side-stitched binding. Language: Bilingual German / English. Release date: 2005. Catalogue number ISBN 3-89602-649-6. German only release, available from Soundtrack Distribution, Germany or via www.ebay.com
Publicity details of the book are reprinted below, could anyone who owns a copy please get in touch with us and let us know if it's actually worth the amount being asked!
THE SWEET - BY WOLFGANG 'BUBI' HEILEMANN
I have also had an e mail regarding the Sweet book being written by Mick Duthie. He says: "The Sweet book is still coming along- living in the jungles of East Timor tends to slow down one's ability to conduct interviews, research etc! But I'm very hopeful of getting it out this year - just a couple more people to chase up and it should be done. Warm regards," Mick.
STEVE PRIEST NEWS.
To order your copy, send cash, in US dollars with your name and postal address to: 'Steve Priest CD', PO Box 140, La Canada, CA 91012, USA. The price for a copy of 'Priests Precious Poems' is $25. Another reason to purchase this CD release is the fact that all copies are personally autographed by Steve Priest himself! I'm informed that Steve apparently also plans to release a 'Level Headed' 1978 tour, live Sweet recording at some point!
SWEET RELATED NEWS
I also heard that the re launched monthly Rock & Roll magazine titled ‘BuRn’ have contacted Andy Scott for an interview. They plan to try and get him to go back to his home town of Wrexham and do an article for the magazine!
(BuRn Magazine, is one of the UK’s most popular culture magazines of recent years, has announced its re-structured design and re-launch. Sion Smith - the original Editor of BuRn - has taken back the reins and vows to return the magazine to its former glory. With a diverse view on the world of the Rock & Roll lifestyle that includes music, movies, books, games, radio, & clubs.)
Finally our thoughts and best wishes go out to the Connolly and Tucker families at this time with the anniversaries of their deaths having just passed. I would also like to send Andy and the Scott family our sympathy as Andy’s mother died in January.
SWEET 'ANGEL' REFORM?.
In 1974 Angel released 2 singles through Polydor on its Cube label. Both compositions were written by Andy Scott who co-produced them with Mick Tucker. Good Time Fanny (BUG 41) was recorded at Audio International and released on May 24th . Little Boy Blue (BUG 51) was recorded at Essex Studios and released on October 24th. (and very good they were too, should have charted!- Editor,) The B sides were both written by Angel; Who D'ya Think You're Fooling (B. Johnson, M. Kemp, S. Rickard, J. Ryan) Tragedy Queen (Banasiak, Johnson, Kemp, Rickard). Both singles, in original vinyl format, are now considered collectors' items.
Well the band reformed for a one off show at Club 'Zero 6' in the town of Southend-on-Sea. The show featuring all the original members of the band from 1974, I really would have loved to see them perform their two Sweet related releases, if anyone went to this show please get in touch. A Press Release regarding the show is printed below.
'Angel' (Featuring Original band members from 1974.) - at 'Club Zero 6', Southend on Sea. Dated: 2.10.05
All band members are giving their services free and only essential expenses are being met from ticket sale revenue. For more on the band including pictures check out the Official British Angel website: http://www.angel1974.co.uk/default.htm
CUT ABOVE THE REST - ISSUE 43 (Published 01/06/2005)
ANDY SCOTT & THE SWEET
Anyway, he asked me to thank everyone reading for their messages of support over the split and says "that he has a great bunch of close friends who are all helping him and that he is happy again being single and keen to get on with his life.
"He also said from his Wiltshire home (see within for an article on his present residence) "that he loves the countryside where he lives, as after a long tour, or show abroad, he cannot wait to get home and relax. He also stated that "I have no plans to return to 'city living' and getting a place in London once more, as he is quite comfortable with his own company and doesn't feel the need to always surround himself with people!"
Many fans have also commented that he looks fitter and well, despite his personal problems, the various band members have also informed me that "he is keen to get on with his life and is now enjoying his newly found 'Single' status!"
So what's he been up to with the band. Well when I telephoned prior to publishing the fanzine he informed me about various plans etc, he told me that he had just been interviewed and photographed once more for a 'Guitar' orientated magazine article which should be published some time this year, (I will locate the particular publication and reprint it's Sweet related contents in the next issue of the fanzine!)
ANDY'S LIVE CHARITY APPEARANCES.
1. Andy appeared with Danny Hynes and Paddy Goes To Holyhead on Monday Dec 13th at The Borderline, Manette St, London W1. The gig is in aid of Task Brasil www.taskbrasil.org.uk a charity set up to look after the street kids and pregnant young girls of Brazil. (Their patron is Jimmy Page guitarist with Led Zeppelin!) There was a auction with prizes including Led Zeppelin & Sweet memorabilia. Check out: www.paddygoes2holyhead.com and www.taskbrasil.org.uk for further details!
2. 'The Olympiad', Chippenham, Wiltshire - Tsunami Appeal February 5th, where to Andy's delight he performed with former Pink Floyd's Drummer Nick Mason! raising something in the region of £75,000+ for a very worth while cause! A short extract of a report from one of the organisers & musicians, 'Chris McCormack' (aka Mac), stated the following:
"The original intent was for Nick Mason and Andy Scott to help work the auction, but after our initial introduction to the rest of my band 'Iron the Cat' (a local charity rock band), photo calls, and signing, it was obvious that Nick was very much enjoying the evening, and conversation moved onto the Cat set for the night.
"Andy would be joining the "Cat" so we asked Nick if he wanted to sit in for a couple of numbers, to which he agreed. We where headlining for the night, so around 10:30pm we opened with "Rocks Off" after which we introduced Nick and Andy to the crowd of a 1000 lucky folks - who then witnessed an amazing performance from these two as they joined Iron The Cat in playing "I Saw Her Standing There" and "You Really Got Me".
"Both very much enjoyed the session, grinning from ear to ear, as were all the other members of the band, as its not often you get the chance to share a stage with such luminaries... They left the stage after around 10 minutes performance to rapturous applause and retired to the bar, leaving us to comment: "follow that!!" But, it was that sort of evening, more about why we were there, rather than strict musical performance.
A more in depth and detailed report including pictures of Andy at the event can be viewed at the following web links:
www.thisiswiltshire.co.uk/wiltshire/archive/2005/02/10/chip_news_nwilts20ZM.html
www.brain-damage.co.uk/news/0504012.html
www.brain-damage.co.uk/news/0502211.html
ANDY ON RADIO.
SWEET LIVE SHOWS & UK TOUR DATES.
The band performed a few live UK shows, as mentioned last issue prior to the 2 month Glam Rock Tour ie Friday 11th February 2005 at 'The Underground' in Camden, London, (this show saw both of Brian Connolly's two daughters present in the audience supporting the band, see report within) and the second at the newly revamped 'Robin', Bilston, Staffs on Saturday 12th February 2005. These two shows featured the bands heavier set list as well as surprise live choice 'Peppermint Twist'!
Also many thanks to Sweet contributor Reiner Driefer for informing me that former Sweet guitarist / keyboardist Steve Mann stepped into Steve Grant's shoes for a show at the Stadthalle Osnabruck, Germany 19.03.05. His letter said that "It was a great surprise to see Steve Mann back, (even if only temporarily,) what a great musician and showman, also great guitar duel between Andy & Steve during AC/DC !!"
The proposed 'Glitz Blitz & Hitz 70's' spring UK tour (that featured support from The Rubettes and Sailor,) surprisingly had to be cut short. It's no way a reflection on The Sweet, but apparently the promoters decided to cancel some dates due to low ticket sales. There are various reasons why the tour was not completed:
1. Not enough pre- show advertising was done for the tour!
2. The tour was (when actually advertised) promoted as 'The Glitz Blitz & Hitz 70's' concerts, which did not actually mention that The Sweet were actually performing, (this tour title implied that anyone from the 70Õs era could be performing, even cover bands!)
3. Some people felt that the two support bands, as good as they tried, and the fact that some fans actually enjoyed them, didn't have enough of a following to pull in enough members of the public, ie "put Bums on seats" the whole purpose of putting a tour together. (In fact each support band I feel didn't have enough material musically to actually complete their contracted set, a couple of hits from a band filled with obscure tracks does not justify a show, unlike The Sweet who even had to drop numbers from their multi-faceted set, ie 'Action' was not performed every night - Editor.)
In the end due to financial reasons the promoters were left with no choice but to cancel the tour, (I believe Grimsby Auditorium on the 13th of April was the tours final show?) Andy told me that the promoters 'Flying Music' have already made clear that they wish to use the band again, possibly for another series of shows next year, with 'Showaddywaddy' once more possibly being included on the bill, who according to Andy "do actually have a loyal following and who do turn out in 50's Rock & Roll fashion to attend theatre shows!
I discussed with Andy at the bands Buxton show, whether the band should maybe now go out with an "all Rock" type of bill, possibly with bands such as 'Nazereth', 'UFO' etc, Andy agreed with me and mentioned that they possibly could arrange something with fellow 70's rockers 'Uriah Heep', lets keep out fingers crossed for a bill similar to this, as I'm confident that The Sweet would annihilate any of these bands in a live, theatre situation! (Many thanks to Sweet roadie/Guitar technician: Adam Booth for looking after me and getting me a 'Ring Side' position for the Buxton Concert, What a guy!)
The band are at present once more touring Europe throughout the summer, with shows and dates scheduled for far out places such as the Czech Republic even!
Here a few UK shows that have been confirmed to me by Andy:
1. Clumber Park - Worksop. Notts, (+ 'Bjorn Again' and 'The Rubettes') 9.07.05.
2. Civic Hall - Trowbridge, Wilts, 30.07.05.
3. Nostell Priory - Wakefield, 7.08.05.
4. Butlins - Bognor Regis, 9.12.05.
More British shows are to be lined up with a possible show in August at The Rock Cafe, Alfreton 2000, Stourbridge West Midlands, being muted and more Butlin's shows to be added. I also hope to contact Sweet's agent Nigel Kerr and list any new live British dates on the Cut above the rest website, so please check it out when you're Internet surfing!!!
DEVIZES III
SWEET AUSTRALIAN TOUR.
NEW SWEET CD'S/DVD'S
Quizzing Andy on the subject of the success of these releases, it surprised me to hear that he had contacted BMG regarding initial sales of the CD albums, to be told that possible no more copies were due to be pressed? ("What, how can they make such a stupid decision - Editor,) Andy informed me that the situation with BMG records just "frustrates him", he cannot understand the thinking behind their decision possibly not to press further batches of these titles! (Are they afraid that they might get stuck with unsold copies! I donÕt think this would, could happen, record labels that donÕt want to make money, unbelievable I thought that's why they were in the music business!)
On the subject of new DVD's, it appears that at least three more have been issued recently:
1. SWEET - 'THE VERY BEST OF SWEET' - 'WIENERWORLD', WNRD 2185, 2005.
This DVD brings together all of Sweet's greatest hits and includes rare performances of their self-penned heavier tracks as well as bonus material from the original 16mm films that Sweet recorded to promote their singles worldwide. With endorsement from the entire band, this is the definitive Sweet package! It sounds great but fans will have noticed that we have all already seen the footage before under the title 'Glitz, Blitz And Hitz' DVD that came out a couple of years back, same footage just different sleeve!. Track listing: The Ballroom Blitz, Teenage Rampage, Turn It Down, The Six Teens, Fox On The Run, Action, The Lies In Your Eyes, Lost Angels, Fever Of Love, Love Is Like Oxygen, Letters D'Amour, Fountain, California Nights, Give The Lady Some Respect, Sixties Man.
2. THE SWEET - SWEETLIKE (Most Famous Hits) 'MCPS' 8560.
Track listing: Introduction, Hell Raiser, Block Buster, Fox On The Run. Medley: a. Wig Wam Bam, Little Willy, Sweetlife, You're Crazy, Airheads, Do It All Over Again, Never Say Forever, Medley: a. Coco, Funny Funny, Poppa Joe, The Six Teens, Poppa Joe, The Ballroom Blitz, The Six Teens, Action, Lies In Your Eyes, Fever Of Love & Sweet And Sour. Another reissue, again just different packaging!
3. GOLDEN YEARS IN CONCERT - VOLUME 3. 'HOT TOWN' PUBLICATIONS. PVD 6072/2, 2004.
Track listing: Blockbuster, Funny Funny, poppa Joe/Co Co Wig Wam Bam, Little Willy, Fox On The Run & The Ballroom Blitz.
Many thanks to Philppe Antoine of La Madeleine, France for bringing this DVD to my attention, it seems he picked this release up in Belgium last year, and quite interesting it is to. The DVD consists of 5 artists: 1. The Sweet, 2. The Searchers, 3. Gerry & The Pacemakers, 4. Alvin Stardust & 5 The Swinging Bluejeans all here featured Live at 'The Sportpaleis' - Antwerp. Belgium April 1994. (I have a feeling the band line up that appeared at this concert was the Scott/Chad Brown/Jeff Brown/Steve Grant & Bisland line up!! More on this release when I actually track a copy down! All the above DVD's, available from most local/internet musical outlets!
NEW SWEET CD RELEASE!
SWEET PRODUCED SUZI QUATRO CD RELEASE!
On the recording front it appears that Andy and Steve Grant have still not quite yet finished their part on the next Suzi Quatro album. (Andy & Steve have produced the majority of the album.) Andy says that after a year of hard work, the album is now almost ready apart from a possible track being recorded as a duet! Andy said that Suzi wanted to re-record a song "as a duo." I asked Andy if he was the man for the job, especially as he does still possess a wonderful lead voice? Unfortunately Andy said he was not in the running as he said ÒSuzi was hoping to get someone of the calibre of Sir Paul McCartney or 'Bee Gee' Robin Gibb to guest!
Also Andy and Suzi still intend to record one further track to the album, which apparently is to be recorded in Nashville, Tennessee, USA. Andy says the song is to be recorded with 'The Jordonaires', in Nashville and that he was "very excited at the prospect of visiting that great 'Country Rock' Capital city, again, (apparently Andy has passed through Nashville before with the Sweet) and to be involved in the recording of the song." Andy hopes that the CD will be released very soon. For more information on this release check out her website: www.suziquatro.com
ANDY SCOTT & STEVE PRIEST.
SWEET & SHANE RICHIE BIRTHDAY BASH.
MAL McNULTY & PADDY GOES TO HOLYHEAD.
I have just heard from an old musician friend of Sweet vocalist Mal McNulty called Ian Walker. who was trying to get back in touch with our old friend Mal. Having put the pair back in touch with each other I asked Ian if he would tell us something about his days with Mal, pre Sweet?
Ian obliged me with the following: "Hi Cos, Thanks for your mail. I have spoken to Mal and we will meet up in a few weeks time. We were in a band called 'Fanmail'. The line up was Billy Smith-Drums, John Fitzgibbon-Keyboards & Flute & Vocals, myself on Bass & backing vocals & Mal on Guitar & Vocals. We played mainly covers. We would rehearse in Mal's cellar at 2 or 3 Dovey Street, Liverpool 8. We would play gigs around Liverpool & Wirral. I am compiling a set list at the moment. I also have a couple of photographs which I am trying to find to pass onto you. Hope this is ok to start", Ian.
Mal was also spotted at the last 'Paddy Goes To Holyhead - St Patricks Day' festivities at the 'John Bull Pub', Chiswick, London 17.03.05. (Check out the official Paddy Goes To Holyhead website at: www.paddygoes2holyhead.com as the site also includes some Mal McNulty pix taken of the former Sweet Vocalist/Bassist at the show.
As mentioned earlier Andy also appeared with long time pals 'Paddy goes to Holyhead' last December 13th at the Task Brazil Charity gig at the Borderline Club London. For more details on this show and band touring schedules contact leader and vocalist Danny Hynes through their website at: www.paddygoes2holyhead.com Photo's of Andy Scott, Mal McNulty and Paddy Goes To Holyhead, performing at the charity concert can be viewed at: www.thesweet.com/borderline04.htm
BRUCE BISLAND'S & STATETROOPER.
RARE 'MAYFIELDS MULE' LP ?
What's this all about I hear you ask, well anyone collecting Sweet associated recordings will know that this band was the band that once included a young Andy Scott on guitar. Chris mayfield employed Andy to record on some tracks for I believe at least 3 singles for the British Parlaphone label in the late 60's, early 1970's. The band called 'MAYFIELDS MULE' appear to have released a album, never before known about!
This rare piece of vinyl was advertised on EBay auction website and the seller described the album as follows: - MAYFIELDS MULE LP - Ultra Rare Uruguay LP, ODEON Record Label, Stereo SURL 20739, Released in 1970. "This is the missing link album in Andy Scott's career." This album has not ever been released in the UK, Europe or US. "This is the only country (Uruguay) as far as I can establish that the lp was released in. Andy Scott's career started with the release of the 'Expansions On Life' album with the 'Elastic Band'." Co-members in the band were: Sean Jenkins - Drums, Ted Yeadon - Vocals/Organ & Mike Scott - Bass.Ê This band split when Ted Yeadon left to join 'The Love Affair'. ('Expansions On Life' is now a very sought out Progressive Rock album. After the split the remaining members joined 'Chris Mayfield' to form 'Mayfield's Mule'.Ê They released a number of singles and recorded this album.Ê However, as mentioned before it was never released, Andy Scott then went on to join the 'Sweet'.)
Track listing: Side 1: Oh Lady, Backyard, Queen Of Rock & Roll, Down From The Country & Abracadabra. Side 2: Here Comes The Rain, Rolling Down The Highway, My One For Your Two & Life's Been Good To Me, (featuring CHRIS HUNT on drums on this track.) Sleeve shown above.
SWEET CUTTINGS & RELATED ARTICLES!
NEW 'DEVILISH PRESLEY' CD SINGLE HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
I don't know to much about this band, but that is bound to change soon on the evidence of this recording, If you like your music hard, heavy and electric circa 70's Glam, 'Bolan Boogie Rock', then I recommend you track down a copy of the bands 'Hammer Horror Glamour' release, (Tenth Records NVMBR 003, written by female and male duo: 'Thee Vixen'/'Mad Dog Navarro' and taken from the bands 3rd and forthcoming album 'Memphisto',) it's so good that if you don't like it I will refund you your money, I mean it, I haven't been so excited by a band so much in years! 'Go Out & Buy!'
ANDY & MADDY
ANDY SCOTTS'S SWEET
LES GREY MEMORIAL SHOW 25.8.04
SWEET AUSTRALIAN TOUR.
Well the most discussed, interesting, item on the Sweet agenda at the present time is the latest Sweet DVD TITLED: GLITZ, BLITZ & HITS from WIENERWORLD LTD, Catalogue No: WNRD 2185. Track listing: Slow Motion: (No actual footage of this very early track, just the track played in the background) - Funny Funny - Co Co - Poppa Joe - Little Willy - Wig-Wam Bam - Block Buster - Hell Raiser - The Ballroom Blitz - Teenage Rampage - The Six Teens - Turn It Down - Fox on the Run - Action & Love is Like Oxygen. Plus DVD Bonus extras: Discography & band profiles. (Picture disc DVD, length 92 mins, PAL, Code 0 - All regions. Made in Europe).
This release is of major interest due to it being the first Official DVD of the band. The release is similar to a documentary on the group with guest appearances, in-depth interviews by legendary Sweet producer Phil Wainman, Nicky Chinn (Sweet writer/manager/producer) and Andy Scott all commenting on the past, recording history, song writing etc. A thoroughly indispensable purchase, if you didn’t get a copy for Christmas then get and order a copy now!
For a review of this release check out the review from February’s Classic Rock, reprinted opposite. David Folgate, wrote in regarding the DVD: 'Just a little note to say that the Glitz, Blitz..... DVD is reviewed in the new February issue of Classic Rock mag (which is reprinted below Editor). I must say I agree with most of the reviewers comments. I think the footage is quite good and it's good to see some different clips. The quality is so-so on some of them as is the sound quality. It would be great to see the original Top of the Pops performances for Hellraiser, Ballroom Blitz and Teenage Rampage but I think they must have been wiped by the BBC because they never seem to be shown. Anyway it's great that the DVD was finally released and the interviews were quite interesting.
Also of interest to any Sweet fan is the recent release of a CDR bootleg release of the bands 1979 release, titled 'The Sweet - Cut Above The Rest Sessions', a collection of 13 out-takes, early versions and demos of the session leading up to the departure of Brian Connolly from the Sweet ranks.
All 4 original Sweet members feature on this release. Tracks include early versions of: Mother Earth, Dorian Gray, Hold Me, Log One, (Andy Scott Vocal Version), Eye Games (Demo Version), Play All Night (Brian Connolly - Vocals), Old Flame (Demo Version), Log One (Brian Connolly - Vocal demo), Play All Night (Mick Tucker - Vocal Demo), Discophony (Home demo), Changes (Demo version), Log One (Brian Connolly - Final vocal version) & Big Apple Waltz (Early Version.)
The package is really interesting because it features Mick, & Brian on a few tracks before he quit the band to embark on his solo career. This release as well as many others can be obtained from Sweet merchandise dealer Carl Stinson-Malibu Records. For more details contact: maliburecordsuk@aol.com or write to Carl, at 28 Parsonage Park Drive, Fordingbridge, Hampshire, SP6 1QS. He has loads of Sweet goodies, DVDs etc with special prices especially for you 'Cut Above The Rest' readers, (i.e. copies of the 'Sweet -Cut Above The Rest Sessions' CD, are priced £7.99 each to readers + £1.49 postage.) To qualify for these special price rates all orders must be marked 'A Cut Above The Rest Fanzine order'. Please make payment / cheques payable Carl Stinson! Again many thanks to David Folgate who sent in the Sweet/Brian Connolly related Classic Rock press article printed overleaf, (cover dated November, 2003, the Status Quo special issue), many thanks to him. If anyone else sights the Sweet in the daily press etc, please just don’t presume we already have seen it, or those we, here at the fanzine will notice it/spot it etc, or that some other fan will send a copy of it in, this doesn’t always happen and is usually not the case! So please, if you do see something of interest relevant on the band please forward it onto us, you will of course be credited.
Regarding live shows well again its also great to report that we’ll get to see the band this month in the U.K! Yes, the band will be appearing at the following 3 British venues during February:
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