Biography
Originating in Brighton, the Amazorblades owed their existence to a 1972 encounter between vocalist Rob Keyloch and guitarist Ben Mandelson. The complete lineup, featuring bassist Ray Cooper and sax player Robin Watson, did not reach the stage until 1976, when they delivered their opening performance at the Alhambra club. Steve Harris stepped in on drums in place of an earlier, now-unremembered percussionist, after which the group maintained a steady schedule of shows throughout the year and secured a contract with the Chiswick label in late summer. Their debut single, "Common Truth," appeared the following October, though the band dissolved before the year concluded. Mandelson subsequently reemerged in tandem with Jah Wobble, while Cooper aligned with the Oyster Band.