Based in Penarth, Wales HVM (High Velocity Mushrooms) started out in Evenlode Primary School in 1997; initial members consisted of Theo Jones, Patrick Heery and James Turner.
1998 they had there first break through with the Venture Week talent show where they performed an acoustic version of "Wonderwall" live on stage under the band name "Mirage" [Reference to Oasis] This performance called for a line up change losing Turner but gaining Tim Cox on bongos and Sarah Ellard and Liz Clapham on backing vocals.
On entering Stanwell High School in 1999 Heery (Vocals/Keyboard), Jones (Guitar), Cox (Drums) continued progressing there music and writing their own material. The Year 7 [2000] show was another performance opportunity but the band needed more members and gained Gareth Mason (Bass) and Dan Ford (Keyboard). The live performance of the original song "Someday” under the new band name "Limes In Lines" was a success, however tensions in the band lead to Mason never playing and Ford leaving soon after.
From 2001-2002 the band expanded yet again gaining a second guitarist Hugh Everett and another drummer Minyo Minev [Everett and Minev already a musical duo]. Cox had been moving from drums towards guitar but eventually left the band.
Moving to a new 'Jamming Room' the band progressed by playing local gigs, charity events and parties. Also organising there own events for themselves and other local bands. The next big break-through was the playing of the 'Teen Spirit' night in Barfly Cardiff in 2003, expanding the fan base and giving them a new more professional direction. Changing musical direction called for Peter Balantyne (Bass/Vocals) to join.
By now the band was going under the name of High Velocity Mushrooms and in 2004 they recorded their first professional demo CD. From the years 2004-2005 HVM played a string of gigs in Cardiff gaining a good reputation. However with the onset of exams and other commitments the band lost momentum and ended.
All band members are still in close contact and although musical ideas have changed one off 'Comeback' shows have been known to happen.
