SHEV AND THE BRAKES were formed in 1984 by singer songwriter, TONY 'SHEV' SHEVLIN in South London. His plan was simple. He would poach the best players from other bands on the London live circuit; they would make a name for themselves as a great live act, playing original material, and wait to get signed by a major label. The first part went well. Guitarist, ANDY WILLIAMS was found in a blues club in Clapham; much sought after drummer, MARK WALKER was also tempted on board. Bass player, NIGEL PIERCE was rescued from the cabaret circuit, and SHEV'S sister , JULES would provide the vocal harmonies.They giggled endlessly, honing their stagecraft, and gaining a reputation as one of the best live acts around the capital. After gaining a production deal with a major US label, the band enjoyed making demos at Power Plant, rubbing with the likes of BOY GEORGE, TERENCE TRENT DERBY, SAM BROWN and XTC. Unfortunately, a top American record producer had commented unfavorably on the band's rhythm section, and the label insisted on the recruitment of some name session players being used instead. The five band members agreed that the deal was too good to walk away from. Mark and Nigel would remain as band members, and while Shev, Andy and Jules recorded the album, they would tour with another band, ready to come back fighting for a tour to promote the record's American release. Tony called in drummer PETE THOMAS and bassist BRUCE THOMAS, who as two thirds of The ATTRACTIONS, had made ELVIS COSTELLO's records sound so vibrant. Recording took place in the summer of 1988. With Mark and Nigel back in the fold, the band started rehearsing for the US tour, and recording demos for the follow up album. The release date of early 1989 was suddenly cancelled. A huge Japanese corporation had bought the American label, the release was postponed and the band was dropped. The Shev and the Brakes album was never released. Until now... Musicians: Tony Shevlin, Pete Thomas, Bruce Thomas, Bob Andrews, Andrew Williams, Jules, Mark Walker, Nigel Pearce, Paul Bangash and Pete Brown.

Track Listing

• That'S OK
• I Just Wanna Dance With You
• If I Can Help You
• Say What You Will
• When Friends Let You Down
• What'S The Difference Now
• Hurt'S Like Hell
• I Don'T Miss You When I'M Sleeping
• Would It Be OK (To Fall In Love With You)
• The Story Of Robert The Bunny
• I Won'T Wait Around
• Cut Me (I'Ll Bleed Like Any Man)
• When Friends Let You Down

Additional Details

Label: Angel Air

Genre: Pop/Rock

Release Date: 01/12/09

UPC: 5055011701427