By 1975 rock and roll was once again toughening up. While much of the punk and new wave music of that time was little more than thrash rock, several artists began to shine through with their ability to craft sharp, contemporary rock and roll. Graham Parker and the Rumour were one such band.

When the band's debut album - "Howlin' Wind" was released, Parker suddenly found himself compared to Dylan, Van Morrison and Bruce Springsteen. He was, however, sure of his own identity. Surviving the comparisons, Parker went on in the following years to produce such classic albums as "Heat Treatment" and "Stick To Me" - both attesting to his own individuality. Songs such as "Hold Back The Night", "Back To Schooldays", "New York Shuffle" and "Don't Ask Me Questions" all continued to highlight Parker's songwriting brilliance, but failed to gain him the commercial success he so justly deserved.

In May 1980, Graham's last album "The Up Escalator" was released. Yet again the critical acclaim came flowing in, but acceptance on a wider level eluded him once rnore.

Somewhat disenchanted Parker withdrew from the limelight. For near on three years we heard next to nothing about Parker. But now "The Real Macaw" establishes Parker as a performer who can practically disappear while he works on new product and then step right back into the public eye.

Since the legendary "Rockpalast" live satellite broadcast in Germany, where after six years Parker and the Rumour split, much time has been spent in America on a gruellin search for musicians and producers.

Having found David Kershenbaum (producer for Joe Jackson and Duran Duran) the rhythm tracks were recorded in just over a week. Overdubs took longer. Mixdown longer still. The new album was finished in December '82, and if you haven't heard it yet, you soon will.

Graham Parker's latest effort "The Real Macaw" is probably his finest effort to date, and that's saying something. Also available "Life Gets Better / Anniversary". The 12 inch version also includes a bonus track "(Too Late) The Smart Bomb".

For further information contact :

Doris Tyler - (03) 690 3399
Liz Dayney - (02) 356-3711

or your local EMI representative.

LS 1075 "Life Gets Better" 7"

LMD 207 "Life Gets Better" 12"

LIB 5024 "The Real Macaw" LP