Pioneers of 1960s Australian rock, The Purple Hearts, pounded once again in a reunion of the rhythmnblues. After many requests from their cult-like following of fans, The Purple Hearts reformed for two shows at the Troubadour and the Waterloo Hotel over the weekend of June 3 and 4, 2006. Both shows were fantastic and were attended by three generations of fans.
Original Members
The reunion featured the original line-up, including one of the final performances by the late, great Lobby Loyde on lead guitar, Mick Hadley on vocals and harmonica, Bob Dames on bass guitar and Freddy Pickard on rhythm guitar. Special guests included Keith Megson on drums and Craig Claxton on lead guitar.
An Australian First
Forming in Brisbane in 1964, The Purple Hearts were the first band to bring the British rhythmnblues sound to Australian audiences, through their sizzling live performances and their record releases, which are considered as ground-breaking classics. In the publication The History of Australian Pop, author Ian McFarlaine quotes: Pioneering Brisbane band the Purple Hearts issued a series of tough, incomparable rhythm and blues singles that remain classics of their type. The bands uncompromising approach to music making was unrivalled in its day.
A 40 Year Wait
The reunion weekend was only the second time in 40 years that the Hearts have played together, bringing their unique brand of rhythm and blues to a grateful audience, just as it used to be... energetic, explosive and exciting. The Purple Hearts members boast a lifetime of experiences, from playing bass with Ray Charles in the USA, to the early punk scene in London, to being part of the quintessential Australian rock scene, with bands such as The Easybeats, The Coloured Balls and The Aztecs.
New CD
In conjunction with the shows, The Purple Hearts have launched a reunion cd featuring rare and unreleased tracks. Also included will be several very rare songs by Brisbanes Coloured Balls. Benzedrine Beat The Purple Hearts on Half A Cow Records (HAC 112)
Omigod, I just heard the news.... so sad to hear of Lobby's passing today. I'm speechless & crushed :( Feel extremely lucky to have shared the stage with him and the rest of the Purple Hearts xx
Hi Mick, I'm still getting a buzz from The Purple Hearts Melb gig.....That's a sign of a great night!! .....one of the best gigs of 2006, Happy New Year, Cheers Deltachris.
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