Released At Last: SOUTHBOUND
Don’t Deny Me
Pretty Girl
Keep On Winding
[EDIT]
Sadly after this post was written and the EP released, Alan Burke of Southbound died unexpectedly on Friday 30 April 2021 However he did have the chance to enjoy this release just two weeks before he passed away. Here are the words he used to describe the experience.
On the news of the release:
“That’s amazing news Steve..I’m looking forward to the big time! We were the four amigos, best time of my life. How you keeping these days? Alan”
And when released:
“Steve, never thought we would see this day!!! I’ve bought a copy just cos I can…how many more do I need to buy before it gets in the charts? Seriously thanks for doing this! Alan”.
This is the story and the posting that announced the release
It would be around 1979. Southbound booked into Impulse Studios to record 3 new songs. I was House Producer there and apart from producing for the various associated labels I was available for anyone using the studio if they wanted a producer as well as an engineer (Mickey Sweeney). We cut the three tracks and I thought they were terrific. I suggested I may be able to secure a record deal for them with the tapes. They were enthusiastic so I set about approaching record companies. I’m pleased to say that after only 43 years I’m managed to get a deal for release. Southbound are included in a catalogue deal I did with Cherry Red Records and this very day via Cherry Red, Southbound are “Released At Last”
Drummer Mick Kelly recalls the session:
I remember recording the cheering at the end of Keep On Winding on the stair well after you suggested that using those acoustics would enhance the effect. The “crowd included 3 roadies Geoff Lowe, Paul Robinson and Steve Evison and were double tracked then double tracked again.
I also remember you dancing around the studio to encourage a crescendo to Keep On Winding and changing my drum beat to Don’t Deny Me which gave the song an added variation to the normal straight 4 beat. Then placing the Mic on the stairs for George’s amp to record the lead break for that song to use natural acoustics, first take recording and he absolutely nailed it …..great times.. great memories…thanks – Michael.
George Lamb: Guitar/Vocals
Allan Burke: Guitar/Vocals
Davey Giles: Bass
Mick Kelly: Drums
Starting out largely in the Sunderland area, Southbound were a great rocking outfit playing the North East clubs and pubs and sometimes the larger venues either as support to some household names or headlining under their own steam. Originally a five piece including a lead singer they eventually became a four piece with George and Allan taking on vocal duties as you can hear on these recordings.
I loved this band – I only ever saw them as a 5 piece at working men’s clubs in Sunderland (mainly the Catholic Club on Tatham Street) in the late 1970’s. Fantastic dual lead guitars – Hotel California anyone?
Hi guys… Just came across this info. Was so chuffed to hear about you again. A whole crowd of us used to get the train from Whitley Bay up to Jesmond every Wed’night to watch Southbound in a pub in Jesmond. Wonderful times. I was in a club band (Silas Marner) until 79. Loved the music scene in the North East. Was particularly fond of you guys and The Piranha Brothers from Blyth.
Long life, gigging and happiness to you all. Steve.