Virtue (band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1981 |
| Defunct | 1988 |
| Headquarters | Oxford , England |
| Products | Music recordings, singles, EPs |
Virtue was a heavy metal ensemble originating from Oxford, England, established in 1981 and ceasing activities in 1988.
History
The band was initially formed in 1981 by siblings Matt Sheldon (guitar) and Tudor Sheldon (vocals). By early 1984, the lineup expanded to include guitarist Adrian Metcalfe, bassist Brian Reader, and drummer Ian Lewington. Their first demo, titled Virtue-Defenders, did not achieve the desired success and nearly led to the group's dissolution. Subsequently, a revamped roster was assembled, consisting of the Sheldon brothers along with guitarist Boz Beast, bassist Darren Prothero, and drummer Simon Walters.
Throughout their career, Virtue performed extensively within Oxfordshire. In 1985, they recorded the single We Stand to Fight at Matinee Music located in Reading. This release on Other Records gained radio exposure and attracted attention from major label EMI, although no formal agreement was reached. Due to rapid sales of the initial pressing, a second batch was issued in 1986. Later that year, the band prepared the EP Fools Gold for Hatchet Records; however, complications with the label postponed its official launch, resulting in only a demo cassette circulation in 1987.
After additional performances and changes in personnel, Virtue disbanded in 1988. Post-breakup, bassist Bob Duffy became part of Lou Taylor's Tour De Force, while Matt Sheldon and Boz Beast formed The Shock—a group that Duffy subsequently joined.
In 2013, No Remorse Records re-released the We Stand to Fight EP featuring remastered versions of tracks from the original single and demo recordings, complemented by interviews and photographic material.
- Bob Duffy (bass)
- Simon Walters (drums)
- Boz Beast (guitar)
- Matt Sheldon (guitar)
- Tudor Sheldon (vocals)
Former members
- Darren Prothero (bass)
- Brian Reader (bass)
- Ian Lewington (drums)
- Adrian Metcalfe (guitar)
Demos
- Virtue-Defenders (1984)
- Fools Gold (1987)
Singles
- We Stand to Fight (1985)
EPs
- We Stand to Fight (2013)