Public Enemies (group)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1960s in Oslo, Norway |
| Headquarters | Oslo , Norway |
| Products | Music albums, EPs |
Public Enemies was a rhythm and blues group originating from Oslo, Norway, known for their appearances at Club 7 and their musical partnership with Karin Krog. They produced a distinguished rendition of Sunny and Watermelon Man featuring Krog and embarked on tours throughout Northern Europe, performing alongside musicians such as Steve Winwood from Traffic.
Band members
The lineup consisted of Hans Petter Holm (vocals, guitar, bass), Bjørn Johansen (guitar, vocals), Thomas Berg Monsen (harmonica, vocals), Arild Boman (organ), Hans Marius Stormoen (bass), and Jan Lie (drums, vocals).
Success
In 1966, Public Enemies achieved the status of Norway's leading band, surpassing groups like The Pussycats. They were featured in the Norwegian movie Hurra for Andersens, performing their popular track "Shotgun." This single climbed to #7 on the Radio Luxembourg Top 20 chart, representing the first time a Norwegian band attained international chart recognition. Their 1967 album From Public Enemies Without Love was also distributed in Italy via the Thunder label, accompanied by different cover artwork.
Dissolution
Christian Reim joined Public Enemies as an organist in 1967. That same year, the band disbanded when Stormoen and Reim went on to create Dream with Terje Rypdal. Subsequently, Bjørn Johansen and Jan Lie founded The Prophets.
Discography
- I Call It Pretty Music (EP, 1965)
- Elevate Me (EP, Volt, 1965)
- Believe Me (EP, Thunder, 1966)
- Shotgun (EP, Triola, 1966)
- Familien Andersen (EP, 1966)
- Sunny/Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On (EP, Sonet, featuring Karin Krog, 1966)
- From Public Enemies Without Love (LP, Sonet, 1966)
- Public Enemies (LP, Thunder, 1966)