Seventies rock band reforms for special reunion gig at pub
Glittarock formed in 1973 and went on TV year later
A ROCK band from the seventies that used to play in Hinckley is coming back for a reunion gig.
Glittarock got together in 1973 and performed throughout the Midlands, with two of the performers still living in Hinckley.
All five of the original members are getting back together to headline a 70s night in a marquee event.
The band’s line up includes Tom Best on drums and vocals, Stan Laight on drums and backing vocals, Dave Burton on lead guitar and backing vocals, Dick Orton on bass guitar and vocals and Andy Clayford on saxophone.
Tom and Dave still live in Hinckley. Dave said: “This should be a great night and hopefully many of our loyal fans will be there to support us.”
The group rose to TV fame in 1974 when they auditioned for ITV’s Opportunity Knocks and after just one audition they were selected to perform on TV.
Dave said: “We travelled to Middlesex and met the TV production team and sang a couple of songs. After the audition we were told that they would be in touch.
“Amazingly the following day we received a call from the production company to say they wanted us to appear on the programme.”
Glittarock played live and competed against several other artists both professional and amateur.
Drummer Tom Best said: “I believe we were selected because we were unique as we had not one but two drummers. Having two drummers gave us an amazing overall sound.”
After their TV appearance, things started to really happen and late comedy actor Bill Maynard contacted the band and put them in contact with DJM record company who Elton John signed with in the early days.
In 1976, the band changed its name to Tasty because the record company felt that the name was too similar to the Glitter Band.
Dave said: “We were naturally very reluctant to change our name but the record deal was very important to the band.
“Tasty released four singles and made several further TV appearances. In fact one of the singles became record of the week on Radio Luxembourg.”
The band toured throughout the UK and Europe and even played at a festival in the Netherlands playing to over 10,000 people.
Glittarock will be in action once again at The Royal Oak in Hartshill on July 27 at 7pm.