At the time 'Rebirth' was recorded back in 1975, Consortium were one of the hardest working groups on the circuit. A popular attraction at the packed London venues of this period, the group consisted of experienced musicians who had been familiar faces on the scene for close on a decade playing with various other bands and recording countless sessions. With the onset of the Punk era the band became disillusioned with the music business and so along with the disappointment of being let down by RCA, the album was shelved. At last, just over 30 years later 'Rebirth' is reborn......... Rebirth is available through Angel Air Records at Amazon and all good record shops.
Consortium evolved from a mutual admiration of each others musical ability over a series of years from the mid sixties to the bands decision to "come off the road" in 1980.
Brian Parker had, through his teenage years worked with various groups and gained a reputation as a superb technician on guitar and soon became in demand as a session player working at many London studios, including the legendary Joe Meek's. He recorded on many chart hits including with Honeybus.
John Parker (Brians younger brother) played with underground group Arcadium (on the Middle Earth label) who were arguably the founders of psychadelic music and who to this day have a huge cult following. His dynamic drumming skills were in great demand by recording studios and he worked with many known artists, including David Bowie.
Kenny Brown started to play bass in his early teens and became a journeyman player, touring throughout the UK constantly. He soon caught the attention of producers and performed on numerous recording sessions at many studios, including Joe Meeks Holloway Road den.
Mick Ware cut his teeth with legendary groups Tuesdays Children and supergroup CZAR and by the late 60's had gained a reputation of being one of the most exciting guitarists in the UK.
Robbie Leggat was one of the most in demand session singers in the UK from the mid sixties on. He sang on numerous hits for different groups as well as in his own right, using the name Robbie Fair.
Consortium finally came together in this form in 1970/71 where they had all been born and bred, North East London. Although they have not worked together as a band since 1980, they occasionally get together musically and remain firm friends to this day.
Rebirth is dedicated to John Parker (the best) - 1950 to 2001. Still missed...
Thankyou God for...Gibson Guitars, the great Jim Burns and everything he ever made, Slingerland drums, Orange Amplification and Cliff Cooper.
Thanks to the many friends, family (which include children of Consortium members who have gone on to become musicians themselves) and fellow musicians from the early West Coast Consortium days to Consortium 1967 to 1980.
A 20 page booklet is issued with the album, Rebirth on ANGEL AIR records, giving more information on the years 1971 to 1980.
CONSORTIUM RADIO INTERVIEW - PARTS 1 2 3 4
