The Cobras formed in 1986 as a 4 piece Rock'n'Roll band based in Herts & Essex playing local pubs and clubs. The original members were Dave Thomas (Bass & Vocals), Cliff Bassett (lead Guitar & Vocals), Dave Ward (Rhythm Guitar), Eric Swain (Drums & Vocals). The band soon established themselves on the rockin' scene in London and the home counties playing regular slots at some of the busiest venues of their time including The Burnell Arms, The Clay Pigeon, The Hound Dogs, The Horn Of Plenty & Dingwalls. Dell Richardson put out the band's first record 'Train To Somewhere' in 1988 on the Fury Compilation 'Taken By Force'. During this time Eric decided to leave to play other styles of music. The formation of the band now changed dramatically, Paul Hughes (Drums) and Mark Bellsham (Double Bass) both joined The Cobras from The Rhythm Heirs. Dave Thomas then laid the bass to rest and became the front man and sole vocalist. The Cobras were now playing all over the UK and in 1989 released their 4 track EP 'Snake , Rattle & Roll'. A couple of years later Paul and Mark left to form their own bands and the double bass playing was taken over by Mick Wigfall, several different drummers were used at this time strangely all named Paul. Mick in time left to play for Sonny West, Paul left to play for Clive Osborne and Dave Ward left the band to persue Karate. A new local drummer was recruited in 1992 and The Cobras continued playing as a three piece with Dave Thomas (Bass & Vocals), Cliff Bassett (Lead Guitar) and Terry Donovan (Drums). It was 1994 when an old association with Dell Richardson once again lead to a release on Fury Records, another of the bands self penned songs 'C'mon Little Girl' was included on the compilation album 'Streets Of Fear'. Shortly after the release of this record Terry had to give up playing the drums because of hand problems. After playing intermittently with new drummer Bill Lambert, the band, dogged by line up changes, decided to give it a rest, Their last gig was played in August 1995. A reunion of the original members was planned for 2006 to mark 20 years, but despite the agreement by all and initial rehersals the reunion gig never took place. It is still hoped that one day The Cobras will play a reunion gig (watch this space).