The foursome of John Wicks, Huw Gower, Phil Brown, and Will Birch (later amended at points to include Dave Whelan, Chris Gent, and Jude Cole) came together in 1977, formed from the ashes of pub rockers Kursaal Flyers. After John and Will wrote hit songs for artists like Rachel Sweet, they landed a spot backing up the singer for the Be Stiff Tour. This led to the group’s own “Starry Eyes” single getting significant attention as well as their own label deal, resulting in 1979’s SHADES IN BED. Though tours with The Cars and The dB’s followed, the band disbanded after 1982’s MUSIC ON BOTH SIDES.