Enuff Z'Nuff
This Chicago, USA, pop-metal crossover quartet comprised Donnie Vie (vocals), Derek Frigo (guitar; ex-Le Mans), Chip Z'Nuff (bass) and Vikki Fox (drums). Influences such as Cheap Trick and the Beatles were apparent through the band's extensive use of three-part harmonies, which carried the melody line in many of the songs. On a visual level, they initially appeared as multi-coloured fashion casualties from the early '70s, sporting an ambitious and often dazzling array of sunglasses, waistcoats, boots and accessories (regalia most notably paraded on MTV via the video to their minor hit, New Thing). This image has since been played down with the release of STRENGTH, an impressive and mature musical offering that combined infectious hooks, abrasive guitar work and a sparkling production to dramatic effect. Following Atco's internal problems with mothership Atlantic, the trio moved to Arista Records, although by the time their third album was released Fox had departed to join the Vince Neil band. His replacement was Ricky Parent (ex-War And Peace), allegedly a distant relative of Arnold Schwarzenegger.