After The Fire

Keyboardist Peter Banks launched After the Fire in England during 1974. That initial configuration dissolved several years afterward, prompting Banks to assemble a fresh ensemble featuring guitarist Andy Piercy, bassist Nick Battle, and drummer Ivor Twiddell. The revised group worked the capital’s club circuit and soon became regulars at the Marquee on Wardour Street. In 1978 they issued their debut release, Signs of Change, on the independent Rapid imprint; the material at that stage echoed the approach of early Genesis and Greenslade. Rising visibility led the band to CBS, where they recorded Laser Love and shifted toward the emerging new-wave sound. Battle departed, with John Russell—formerly of Narnia alongside Banks—taking the guitar chair. To sidestep mix-ups with the former Yes guitarist of the same name, Banks adopted the stage moniker “Memory” Banks, while Piercy moved over to bass duties. Produced by Rupert Hine, the single “One Rule for You” reached the U.K. Top 40. Their third album, 80F, failed to match that momentum. Twiddell was subsequently succeeded by Peter King, previously of the Flys. Although 1981’s Batteries Not Included leaned further into mainstream territory, widespread recognition remained elusive until 1983, when “Der Kommissar” climbed into the U.S. Top Ten. At that point Piercy was the sole remaining original member.