Well, we're now into 2011, just over two years since our farewell gig at The Old Crown Penistone. Originally we fully intended to have a short break then get back together to try some new material, but....well....due to job changes, pub closures, other commitments, it just didn't happen. However, we have gradually all got ourselves involved with various other musical projects, so here's what's been happening......

Ratty and Tony were already playing with the 3-piece Raw Gallagher - a highly rated Rory Gallagher tribute band which they were both enjoying immensely. By mid-2009, Ratty felt that he had now found his "musical home" in the blues-rock genre and, together with the Raw Gallagher line-up, established the complimentary band Raw Deal which was designed to be a more diverse blues-rock band. However, disaster was to strike when their guitarist Steve developed an awful ear problem which effectively ended his playing days - and those of the two bands.

In the meantime, in March 2009 Chris had been invited to join Arena - a club band specialising in playing the stadium rock classics by Bon Jovi, Journey, Toto, Foreigner, Journey etc. Quite different from Storm Bringer but for several months was great fun to do (apart from the Journey songs of course! - sorry ladies!).

At about the same time Dave had got back together with the original members of The Sabres to reform the group. They've since been doing quite a few gigs locally under their new name Sabre. Don't miss them - especially as Gordon is depping on drums with them! (see later for more news abut Gordon)

Then, in December 2009, Chris was in contact with Gav Coulson (ex-guitarist with Shield of Steel and Arena) who was looking to put together a new type of blues band. By this time the line-ups of Raw Gallagher, Raw Deal and Arena had all split up so Roy, Tony, Chris and Gav got together for a couple of remarkable jam sessions and in 2010 The Gav Coulson Group was formed.

OK - so there's still a couple of people missing...

Steve the Sound Engineer. Well, he's enjoyed his couple of years off but is now keen to twist his knobs(!) and push his sliders again - so we'll let you know which project he gets involved with next.

Gordon Storm Bringer's original drummer. So many people ask about him that he deserves his own spot here. And......he's fine! The radiotherapy he had to undergo was successful, but whilst going through that he also met up with a lovely lady, and is probably happier now than he's ever been in his life. He's still drumming and has played locally with quite a few bands - including the rather superb Johnny H Band, Sabre, and a new venture that's about to unfold. So don't worry, Gordon will never be far away!

 

So, for the time being - there we all are!

We'll update links here as and when there are developments. But to everyone out there who supported us for those 18 years - our sincere thanks to all of you. And who knows - maybe we'll get the chance to play to you all again soon?

Best Wishes

Storm Bringer