By LACHLAN MOORHEAD
Many veteran rock and roll bands could be excused for throwing in the towel but not The Radiators. They are celebrating their 30th anniversary and have no plans of giving the gig away any time soon.
After travelling thousands of kilometres up, down and across Australia touring their music, The Radiators have carved a niche in the annals of Aussie rock history.
In 2004 they released a 25th anniversary album while in 2008 their controversial single ‘Gimme Head’ was re-recorded and remixed by The Cut in Sydney and climbed to number nine on the ARIA Club Charts. They have also shared the stage with other great Aussie bands including AC/DC and INXS.
Prior to 1978, Brian Nichol was bass guitar/lead vocals and Fess Parker was lead guitar in ‘Big Swifty. At the same time, Geoff Turner was bass guitarist with the band Twister.
After the two groups performed together a couple of times, Twister disbanded and Big Swifty decided on a change of musical direction. The two bands and their music styles were combined and drummer Chris Tagg was added to the mix.
Despite several line-up changes and the rigors of touring, The Radiators have not diminished. They continue to do what they do best – tour extensively, play an average of 150 shows per year and delight their loyal fan base.
Watch this space and check out The Radiators website – this weekend they will probably be playing at a venue near you.
What a year
Several key events marked the year, 1978: ‘Grease’ was released, former Prime Minister Robert Menzies died and David Bowie embarked on a world tour. And at the top of that list, The Radiators were born.
