Proof that Roy once had a full head of hair. Photo S. Thurnwald.
Irving and The Ubombs
Irving and The U-Bombs busy at work at the Belair Hotel, 1977. We played
on a small stage that was set back in an alcove from the main room
that gave the aural effect of one really big, loud speaker.
This photo was used for publicity and published in various magazines,
much to the chagrin of the drummer! Photo E. Algra
During my teenage years, I would spend most evenings after school teaching
myself to play the drums by playing along to records by the so-called
'super-groups' of the time like Yes, Genesis, Pink Floyd, King Crimson
etc., some British Blues and most of the crap on the radio. After
some time I grew quite proficient, in my own heavy handed way, at
playing Prog Rock in 7/8 time or improvising though some 9/8
dinosaur riffs. However I enjoyed nothing more than getting
the primal blood flowing and bashing those drums in 4/4 time, FAST AND LOUD!
I was 19 years old when I first heard about 'punk' and the 'new wave'
appearing on the musical horizon, sweeping in from England at a time
when disco ruled the dance floor and seeing a live band at the local
pub was almost a memory (according to the older muso's). And punk
wasn't just about the raw sound. It was a new creed that fearlessly
yelled at the world 'I don't care about anything'.
'Shock! Horror! Save our kids from this evil filth!'
screamed the populist media and the youth of the day could not resist.
It was anarchy and it was good. Then one morning I saw 'God Save
the Queen' by the Sex Pistols on the TV and I knew straight away
that I just had to play drums in a punk band.
I suppose one could have
called it a defining moment because the very next day I answered a
knock at the front door to a couple of scruffy lookin' guys who really
didn't look like they were selling insurance, nor that they where
about to save my soul. But then again...
I'm Phil and this is Paul,' said the disciple as he motioned at the
other. 'We heard through a mutual friend that you're
a drummer. I play bass and Paul here plays guitar and we want to form
a punk band. Are you interested in playing with us?'. I mumbled
something about fate and coincidence but I should've just said
'Amen Brothers'. continued next page
and The Ubombs #1 
Available on CD