Great White
This Los Angeles-based heavy metal band was formed in 1981 and comprised Jack Russell (vocals), Mark Kendall (guitar), Lorne Black (bass) and Gary Holland (drums). They adopted a no-frills approach from the start, relying on the music—earthy, honest blues-rock delivered with stunning precision—rather than gimmicks. The band attracted the attention of EMI Records with their self-financed mini-album, OUT OF THE NIGHT, produced by their good friend Don Dokken. Unfortunately, the momentum was not maintained and STICK IT, their EMI debut, was erratic and sold poorly, and the band was subsequently dropped. Far from disillusioned, they funded the recording of SHOT IN THE DARK out of their own pockets, which eventually opened the door to a new deal with Capitol Records. Lorne Black and Gary Holland broke ranks at this stage and were replaced by Tony Montana and Audie Desbrow respectively. Michael Lardie was also added on keyboards to expand the group to a five-piece and add an extra dimension to their sound. Enjoying the benefits of a larger budget, ONCE BITTEN received considerable critical acclaim with its more melodic, accessible sound. Sales of the album would surpass the million mark. RECOVERY: LIVE paid homage to their roots, being an inspired selection of blues-styled cover versions from the Who, Led Zeppelin, Humble Pie and Jimi Hendrix. TWICE SHY and HOOKED have consolidated their success with further platinum awards. SAIL AWAY saw the introduction of new bass player, Teddy Cook, on an album influenced by Julian Barnes' novel, The History Of The World In Ten And A Half Chapters.