Thomas Trio and the Red Albino
| Company type | Musical group |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1988 |
| Headquarters | St. John's , Canada |
Area served | Canada |
| Products | Music albums, singles |
Thomas Trio and the Red Albino was a funk rock ensemble originating from St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, active between 1988 and 1993. They gained recognition primarily for their tracks "142 Thru" and "Sun Risin'".
Initially formed in 1988 as Thomas Trio, the group consisted of brothers Louis, David ("Lil"), and Danny Thomas. Shortly thereafter, Jody Richardson—known as "The Red Albino" due to his distinctive red hair and pale complexion—joined as lead vocalist, prompting the band to adopt its extended name. Later on, keyboardist Lori Cooper, who was married to Danny Thomas, became a member without affecting the band’s title.
Their first album, Jam It Inya, was self-released in 1989. The following year, they secured victory in the national Molson Canadian "battle of the bands," which earned them the opportunity to represent Canada at the international Yamaha Band Explosion held in Japan in 1991. Although they did not claim the top prize, the positive feedback enhanced their standing as a compelling live act.
Seeking greater exposure within the Canadian music scene, the band relocated to Toronto. During this transition, Cooper departed due to family obligations and was succeeded by Linda Kronbergs on keyboards. In 1991, they produced a music video for "142 Thru" and received the CASBY Award for Favourite New Eastern Canadian Group. Notably, "142 Thru" was the first independently produced video on MuchMusic to advance from light to medium rotation.
Their eponymous album was issued through Cargo Records in 1992 and included the single "Sun Risin'". This release led to a television appearance on Friday Night with Ralph Benmergui in 1993. The band’s reputation for dynamic live performances inspired Louis Thomas to introduce a money-back guarantee for any concertgoers who were dissatisfied.
Creative differences led to the group’s dissolution in the summer of 1993, culminating in their final concert on September 30 in Waterloo, Ontario. They briefly reunited four years later for a benefit show held in St. John's in 1997.
Following the breakup, Richardson went on to establish Fur Packed Action and Pathological Lovers while also pursuing acting roles such as on CBC’s Gullage's. Louis Thomas took on management duties for Great Big Sea; Danny Thomas worked behind the scenes as a technician with various bands including Great Big Sea; and Lil Thomas transitioned into recording engineering at Danny Greenspoon’s studio.