Chequered Past
| Company type | Supergroup |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1982 in New York City, United States |
| Headquarters | New York City , United States |
| Products | Music albums, singles |
Chequered Past was a British-American rock supergroup fronted by actor and vocalist Michael Des Barres, incorporating musicians from Blondie, the Sex Pistols, and Tin Machine. Established in 1982, the group issued a single self-titled album in 1984 under the EMI Records label. The ensemble dissolved following Des Barres' entry into The Power Station as a replacement for Robert Palmer.
History
Formed in New York City initially as a cover ensemble, Chequered Past made their first appearance at the Peppermint Lounge on September 26, 1982, performing the song "Vacation" originally by The Go-Go's. Des Barres characterized their musical style as akin to "New York Dolls in a home for senior citizens."
Nigel Harrison from Blondie was a frequent collaborator with Des Barres and participated in his 1981 tour. The meeting between Des Barres and Sex Pistols guitarist Steve Jones occurred in 1978, with Jones' girlfriend proposing the idea of forming a band. The original lineup featured Harrison alongside Blondie members Clem Burke and Frank Infante, with Infante eventually replaced by Tony Fox Sales.
Chequered Past served as the opening act for prominent groups including Ratt, Little Steven, INXS, and Duran Duran. Their association with Duran Duran facilitated guitarist Andy Taylor inviting Des Barres to join The Power Station, which led to the band's breakup.
Reception
- "On paper, Chequered Past appeared more compelling than their actual sound, as former punk musicians embraced mainstream rock genres." (Rarebird's Detective Reviews)
- "Their compositions showcase tight drum patterns and forceful guitar work from five energetic artists." (Julia Masi, FFanzeen Magazine)
- "The fusion of members from notable bands resulted in rapid heavy metal tunes propelled by Michael Des Barres' songwriting, though critics were divided." (Robert Christgau)
- "Despite possessing skilled musicians, the group illustrated how new wave artists often shifted toward traditional rock styles." (Ira Robbins, Trouser Press)
- "Although several tracks deliver solid rock vibes, the album does not maintain consistent momentum." (James Chrispell, Allmusic)
Members
- Michael Des Barres – lead vocals (Detective, Silverhead)
- Steve Jones – guitar (Sex Pistols)
- Frank Infante – guitar (Blondie)
- Clem Burke – drums (Blondie)
- Nigel Harrison – bass (Blondie)
- Tony Fox Sales – guitar (Iggy Pop, later Tin Machine)
Studio albums
- Chequered Past (1984)
Singles
- "How Much Is too Much?" (1984)