The demise of three fine bands, plus an unknown singer, and the catalyst of a place for the ingredients to mix has been responsible for one of the finest musical collaborations to appear on the British music scene in recent years: Graham Parker and the Rumour.

The break-up of many good groups simultaneously last year was no coincidence. The "pub-rock" boom, which had given exposure to a number of bands, contained the seeds of its own destruction. Bands were typecast by the media into a category of performance, making any attempt to progress to other venues almost an impertinence. Not surprisingly an element of frustration crept into the bands, coupled with an element of starvation. They decided to call it a day.

The common ground for many of the musicians was the Hope and Anchor Pub, with its attached studio, where much of the original boom had occurred. Graham Parker walked into the situation at the perfect moment. A filling station attendant from Camberley in Surrey, he had been writing songs for many years, playing for his own amusement around London cafes. Parker sent a tape off to the pub, hoping it would interest the musicians that hung around there.

At the same time, Brinsley Schwartz (guitar, organ, tenor sax) and Bob Andrews (keyboards) were beginning to shape up their careers again after years with the band that carried Brinsley's name. Martin Belmont (guitar) was living upstairs at the pub after a spell with Ducks Deluxe. And, as fate would have it, Steve Goulding (drums) and Andrew Bodnar (bass) had severed their connections with another band the same day Graham came by to record another demo. Graham Parker and the Rumour were underway.

The group rehearsed at another nearby pub. They knew enough from experience that until things were settled and clear, there was no point in touring. So they kept rehearsing and waiting for the right opportunity.

It came when one of the copies of the demo tape fell into the hands of Charlie Gillett, who played it on a Radio London morning show. Nigel Grainge, Phonogram, England, A&R man, happened to be listening. It was just a matter of a couple of phone calls and negotiations were underway for a worldwide contract with Phonogram (Mercury Records in the U.S.).

The album, "Howlin' Wind," was recorded quickly at the beginning of this year. It spotlights both Parker's unique vocal quality, reminiscent of Van Morrison's better days, and his startling lyrics. The ensemble playing of the Rumour is also a joy to hear.

Following completion of the album the group did three (count 'em) tours of England with Ace, Kokomo, and Thin Lizzy. The band is in great shape and Graham has developed a confidence as a performer which belies his short experience. As both Graham and the Rumour say, each have helped the evolution of the other. And the evolution is just beginning.

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