The Knack (British band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1964 |
| Headquarters | Ilford , United Kingdom |
| Products | Music recordings, live performances |
The Knack was a British ensemble rooted in R&B with a focus on freakbeat and psychedelic rock genres, originating from Ilford, near London, and active throughout the 1960s. They are distinct from two American groups sharing the same name. Although they did not attain chart success during their career, their music has since garnered appreciation among aficionados.
History
Established in 1964, the initial lineup featured Paul Gurvitz (guitar and vocals), Brian Morris (guitar), and Louis Farrel (drums). The band toured performing for American military personnel stationed in Germany and France before returning to England to support 1950s rock icon Gene Vincent. Vincent’s UK operations were managed by Sam Gurvitz, Paul’s father, who also served as his road manager. The group secured a residency at Hamburg’s Star Club under the name the Londoners and released a single exclusively in the German market.
In 1965, they adopted the name the Knack, inspired by the Richard Lester film of the same title, embracing a mod style. The addition of Gearie Kenworthy on bass and Topper Clay on drums strengthened their live shows. Under management by Sam Curtis (father of the Gurvitz brothers), they signed with Decca Records. Their first release, a rendition of the Kinks' "Who'll Be The Next In Line," achieved respectable sales, encouraging further collaboration. However, their follow-up single did not chart, resulting in the termination of their contract.
They subsequently joined Piccadilly Records, a subsidiary of Pye Records, where their musical direction shifted towards folk rock influences. Their singles included covers of Lovin' Spoonful songs such as "Did You Ever Have to Make Up Your Mind?" and "Younger Girl." The track "Stop" experienced moderate success, but later releases failed commercially amid Piccadilly's financial struggles. This period saw lineup changes: Clay exited with Farrel returning on drums; Morris departed and was succeeded by keyboardist Tim Mycroft. Although Paul Gurvitz briefly played with Rupert's People, he remained committed to the Knack.
While no additional official singles were released, in 1967 they recorded Paul Gurvitz’s psychedelic composition "Light On The Wall." Their concluding live appearance occurred at the Roundhouse on 6 October alongside Denny Laine. Following Mycroft’s exit, the remaining members rebranded as the Gun, transitioning into a heavier rock sound; Gun achieved a UK Top 10 hit with "Race With the Devil," reaching number eight. Mycroft later joined Sounds Nice and recorded under Parlophone Records.
After disbanding, all of the Knack’s recordings were compiled into Time Time Time: The Complete UK Singles and More, issued by Rev-Ola Records. Paul Gurvitz proceeded to form several bands including The Gun, Three Man Army, Parrisn & Gurvitz, The Graeme Edge Band, and The Baker Gurvitz Army alongside Cream drummer Ginger Baker.
Membership
- Paul Gurvitz (guitar and vocals)
- Brian Morris (guitar and vocals)
- Louis Farrel (drums)
- Gearie Kenworthy (bass)
- Topper Clay (drums)
- Tim Mycroft (organ)
- Mick Palmer (bass)