Firebird (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1999 |
| Founder | Bill Steer |
| Defunct | 2012 |
| Headquarters | United Kingdom |
| Products | Albums, music |
Firebird was a British blues-rock trio established by Bill Steer in 1999. Their sound, echoing the style of 1960s rock groups such as Cream, represented a notable departure from Steer's previous involvement with grindcore trailblazers Napalm Death and Carcass.
History
The band came together in 1999, originally comprising Steer, bassist Leo Smee from Cathedral, and drummer Ludwig Witt of Spiritual Beggars. This initial formation released the albums Firebird (2000) and Deluxe (2001). Prior to a European tour in 2001, both Smee and Witt departed due to obligations with their main bands. Consequently, Steer brought in bassist Tobias Nilsson from Blind Dog and drummer George Atlagic from Quill. In 2002, Steer introduced a refreshed lineup featuring Atlagic and Roger Nilsson, who played bass for both Quill and Spiritual Beggars; this group recorded the 2003 album No. 3. Following multiple personnel shifts, Steer reunited with Witt for the 2006 release Hot Wings. This partnership formed the foundation for the albums Grand Union (2009) and Double Diamond (2010).
On 3 April 2012, Firebird announced their official breakup through their Facebook page, expressing gratitude to fans and collaborators.
Discography
- Firebird CD (2000 Rise Above Records)
- Deluxe CD/LP (2001 Music for Nations)
- No.3 CD/LP (2003 Steamhammer Records)
- Hot Wings CD/LP (2006 Rise Above Records)
- Grand Union CD/LP (2009 Rise Above Records)
- Double Diamond CD/LP (2011 Rise Above Records)
Members
- Bill Steer – guitar, vocals, harmonica (1999–2011)
- Ludwig Witt – drums (1999–2001; 2005–2011)
- Greyum May – bass (2009–2011)
- Leo Smee – bass (1999–2001)
- Tom Broman – drums (2001)
- Tobias Nilsson – bass (2001)
- Roger Nilsson – bass (2002)
- George Atlagic – drums (2002)
- Al Steer – bass (2003–2006)
- Harry Armstrong – bass (2006–2007)
- Smok Smoczkiewicz – bass (2007–2009)
- Tom Sutton – bass (2009)
- Terry Waker – bass (2009)