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It
bites (is) back !!
The never ending interest for this British band, that was founded in
1982, has led to the simultanuous release of the live CD “Live In
Montreux” and the DVD “Live In Tokyo” in July 2003. (only available
on their website
www.itbites.com )
This British rockband, founded around the inspired, talented and
charismatic guitar player Francis Dunnery (singer-songwriter), bass
player Dick Nolan, drummer Bob Dalton and keyboard player John Beck,
has built a tremendous live reputation. Although they only recorded
3 albums, their short carreer has created quite a furore. From their
first album “The Big Lad In The Windmill” on, they were considered
as the new standard-bearers for the progressive rock music. (but
they had to compete with Marillion and others).
The singles “All in Red” and especially “Calling all the heroes”
became (small) hits in Europe. The second splendid album “Once
Around The World” (with singles as ‘Kiss Like Judas’) went on in the
same style, but there was more attention for some complex
compositions, rhythm changes and vocal harmonies. Alas, the band
would split up after the third record “Eat Me In St. Louis”.
You can best describe their music as keyboard and guitar oriented
progressive rock with catchy pop melodies (sharp edges included),
metal influences and, later in time, strong art-rock tendencies.
(partly thanks to producer Steve Hillage)
Although they became a reference themselves, I can point out
Marillion, early Genesis, early Yes, Rush and maybe even Boston as
cross references.
This CD “Live In Montreux” is a pleasant see again, with tracks from
the first 2 albums.
The enormous energy, the great pleasure in playing is clearly
showing from the first (deliberately out of pitch) notes of Fanfare.
The tracks are less polished, as it should be on a live CD. Of
course, this is a document from the past, but admire the 10 fingered
guitar wonder Dunnery ( on his self invented Tapboard – some sort of
percussion guitar, originally made from shower and kitchen timer
parts and the sound of a guitar on turbo speed) and the 3 other
class musicians as a tight band that has his grip on the public from
the first minute.
Maybe our prayers for a reunion will be heard some day. It would
give the prog scene a strong injection.
It bites “Live in Montreux” is a nostalgic must !!!! |
