BUDGIE
The British hard rock band Budgie were formed in Cardiff in early 1968. At
first they were known as Hills Contemporary Grass, but soon changed it to Six
Ton Budgie before finally shortening name prior to releasing their
self-titled debut album in 1971.
Budgie have been described as a mix between Black Sabbath and Rush, the
latter being no doubt due to the similarities in Burke's voice to Geddy Lee,
Rush's front man. Budgie split up in mid 1988, reformed again in early 1995,
split up in late 1996 and once again reunited in mid 1999.
Metallica, who have almost acknowledged they were heavily influenced by
Budgie, covered the Budgie song "Crash Course In Brain Surgery" for their "Garage
Days Revisited" EP.
Founder member Burke Shelley still fronts the band, with John Thomas
(previously with Edgar Broughton Band and The George Hatcher Band) on guitar and
Steve Wiliams (previously with Lone Star and Quest) on drums.
The appearance at the Pier in 2004 was a stunning night, and 2005's this one will
be another night to remember, especially as another classic band of the era,
Juicy Lucy, are supporting.
|