Greasy Bear

This group from Manchester, England, comprised Chris ‘C.P.’ Lee, Ian Wilson (vocals/12-string guitar), Steve Whalley (guitars/vocals), John Gibson (bass/vocals) and Bruce Mitchell (drums). Emerging out of the hedonistic late 60s Manchester, Greasy Bear never achieved the success they deserved even though many counted them among the finest British exponents of a loose jamming country rock style. Lee and Wilson teamed up first; slowly the line-up emerged as the two vocalists/12-string players added drums, bass, later, and the stunning lead guitarist Whalley last of all. Despite their growing live reputation, they ran into problems in the studio with their producer and with their record contract. The tensions eventually forced Lee out. Later concerts and demos continued to demonstrate their ability, but they disbanded in the 70s. Lee and Mitchell achieved notoriety in Alberto Y Lost Trios Paranoias, Wilson joined Sad Cafe and Whalley began a solo career.