06/05/2019
In the annals of 1970s British rock, many bands carved out their niche with powerful riffs, compelling vocals, and a raw energy that defined an era. While some achieved global superstardom, others, though perhaps equally talented, remained in the shadows, their contributions only truly appreciated in retrospect. Strider falls firmly into the latter category. This London-based hard/blues rock outfit, formed in 1972, may have only released two albums during their relatively short lifespan, but the subsequent careers of its members cast a long and significant shadow, revealing a band whose members possessed a prodigious talent that would later shine brightly in other acclaimed projects.
The Genesis of Strider
The story of Strider begins in the vibrant music scene of London in 1972. The band was the brainchild of guitarist Gary Grainger, a musician with a clear vision for a sound steeped in bluesy undertones and hard rock intensity. He was joined by Ian Kewley, who brought his skills on the keyboards and, crucially, his lead vocals, setting the melodic and vocal direction for the band. The rhythm section was anchored by bassist Lee Hunter, whose real surname, Strzelczyk, would eventually lend its name to the band, and drummer Jimmy Hawkins, who provided the initial percussive backbone.
From their inception, Strider were not content to languish in obscurity. They quickly began to build a reputation on the live circuit, honing their craft and earning valuable experience by supporting some of the biggest names in rock at the time. Gigging alongside bands like Humble Pie, Status Quo, and the legendary Deep Purple provided them with invaluable exposure and a chance to learn from seasoned professionals. This early period of supporting established acts was crucial in shaping their sound and preparing them for their own recording ventures.
'Exposed': The Debut Offering
In 1973, Strider unleashed their debut album, 'Exposed', onto the unsuspecting public via Phillips Records. The album was a testament to their hard/blues rock sensibilities, showcasing Grainger's intricate guitar work and Kewley's commanding vocals. A notable feature of 'Exposed' was the presence of Jennie Haan, the powerful lead singer of Babe Ruth, who contributed backing vocals. This collaboration hinted at the connections the band had within the wider rock community and added a distinctive layer to their sound.
However, the creative process is often fraught with challenges, and Strider were no exception. Even as 'Exposed' was being recorded, internal disputes began to surface. These disagreements ultimately led to the departure of drummer Jimmy Hawkins, a significant blow to the band's stability. Despite these early internal squabbles, the band pressed on, determined to build on the momentum of their debut.
'Misunderstood': The Final Chapter
Undeterred by the departure of Hawkins, Strider regrouped and embarked on recording their second and final album, 'Misunderstood'. For this effort, the drum stool was occupied by Tony Brock, a drummer who would go on to have a highly successful career. Furthermore, the lead vocal duties were taken over by Rob Elliott, a new vocalist who brought a fresh dynamic to the band. The album also saw another appearance from Jennie Haan, who was reportedly on the verge of leaving Babe Ruth herself, adding another layer of intrigue to the recording sessions.
'Misunderstood' continued to explore the band's hard blues rock roots, but the internal friction that had plagued them from the outset finally proved insurmountable. The persistent disagreements within the band became too much to bear, and by 1974, Strider had disbanded. Their time as a cohesive unit was brief, but the seeds of future greatness had already been sown.
The Post-Strider Legacy: A Galaxy of Talent
While Strider's tenure as a band was short-lived, their true legacy lies in the remarkable careers that followed their split. The individual members went on to achieve significant success and contribute to some of the most iconic music of the late 20th century. This is where the story of Strider truly shines, revealing the prolific nature of its members.
Gary Grainger's Journeys
Guitarist Gary Grainger, the initial driving force behind Strider, found himself in high demand after the band's dissolution. He joined the touring band of none other than Rod Stewart, a legendary figure in rock music. His contributions with Stewart provided him with a platform to showcase his guitar prowess to a global audience. Beyond his work with Stewart, Grainger also collaborated with other esteemed musicians, including Roger Daltrey and John Entwistle of The Who, further cementing his reputation as a highly respected session and touring musician.
Ian Kewley's Diverse Path
Keyboard player and original lead vocalist Ian Kewley also forged a diverse and impressive musical path. He went on to form a band called Limey, exploring different creative avenues. His talent was recognised by Paul Young, with whom he worked, contributing to Young's successful solo career. Kewley's musical journey continued to evolve, and he later joined the critically acclaimed Manic Street Preachers, lending his keyboard skills to their distinctive sound during a significant period of their career.
Tony Brock's Stardom
Drummer Tony Brock, who joined for the second album, arguably enjoyed the most prolific and high-profile post-Strider career. His exceptional drumming skills caught the attention of many, and he became a sought-after musician. Brock's impressive resume includes stints with The Babys, a highly successful rock band in their own right. He also worked with American rock icon Eddie Money and, like Grainger, contributed to Rod Stewart's band. Furthermore, he lent his talents to Australian rock legend Jimmy Barnes, demonstrating the breadth of his musical appeal and ability to adapt to various styles and artists.
Strider's Place in Rock History
Strider's story is a compelling reminder that the impact of a band is not solely measured by its longevity or album sales. The band's brief existence, marked by internal struggles and a quick dissolution, belies the immense talent that resided within its members. Their two albums, 'Exposed' and 'Misunderstood', serve as snapshots of a band finding its feet, albeit amidst turmoil. However, the true testament to Strider's significance lies in the remarkable achievements of Grainger, Kewley, and Brock in their subsequent endeavours.
The fact that these musicians went on to play with global superstars like Rod Stewart, The Who, Paul Young, and the Manic Street Preachers speaks volumes about the quality of musicianship that Strider cultivated. They were a crucible for talent, a launching pad for careers that would define decades of popular music. While they may not be a household name, Strider's contribution to music history is undeniable, not for their own output, but for the exceptional talent they nurtured and unleashed upon the world.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When was Strider formed?
Strider was formed in London in 1972.
Q2: How many albums did Strider release?
Strider released two albums: 'Exposed' (1973) and 'Misunderstood' (1974).
Q3: Who were the original members of Strider?
The original members were Gary Grainger (guitar), Ian Kewley (keyboards, vocals), Lee Hunter (bass), and Jimmy Hawkins (drums).
Q4: Did any members of Strider achieve fame after the band split?
Yes, all members went on to notable careers. Gary Grainger played with Rod Stewart. Ian Kewley worked with Paul Young and Manic Street Preachers. Tony Brock played with The Babys, Eddie Money, Rod Stewart, and Jimmy Barnes.
Q5: Is this the same Strider band from the 1990s?
No, this Strider band is from the 1970s and should not be confused with a 1990s band of the same name.
Q6: Did any famous singers contribute to Strider's albums?
Yes, Jennie Haan of Babe Ruth provided backing vocals on both 'Exposed' and 'Misunderstood'.
Q7: Why did Strider break up?
Internal disputes and squabbles within the band led to their dissolution in 1974.
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