Earthband - Manfred Mann's New Group

Manfred Mann is a brilliant and dedicated musician who over the years has moulded the talents of many musicians to make a unique Manfred Mann sound.
In the past seven or eight years, popular music has chnaged its course many times and Manfred and his personnel have always been in the forefront with a sound which has invariably been new and exciting.
 After much soul searching, Manfred has dubbed his new group Manfred Mann's Earthband.  Earthband is a four piece - comprising Manfred on organ and moog; Mick Rogers on vocals and lead guitars; Chris Slade on drums and Colin Pattenden on bass.
"The choice of name 'Earthband' is an effort to leave some of my past labelling behind" explains Manfred.  "The problem has been that I have been stick with a 1967 name and its past image that bears no relation to the music Earthband are creating today.  Also I feel that this is the best band I have ever had, and I think they should be out in front."
This statement covers a lot of ground, for he has worked with an impressive array of pop talent including Paul Jones, Mike D'Abo, Tom McGuinness, Klaus Voorman, Mike Hugg and Jack Bruce.  The new group have been together since early this year.  A fine single by Randy Newman, "Living Without You" failed to make the charts when it was released in June.  Then the Dylan song "Mrs. Henry" which was released as a single in the autumns and 'just bubbled under in the States'...
Earthband are now on the road, working around the UK and perfecting their stage act, a stage act this is raw and earthy, and musically in exactly the right direction Manfred has always wanted.
 

Individually

Mick Rogers is 24 years old and was born in Essex.  He went to Australia four years ago and formed a group called Procession who became very popular there.  They came to Engalnd where Mike Hugg produced their records - na fthrough this association, Manfred was introduced to Mick.
Chris Slade was born in Pontypridd, wales 24 years ago.  He started playing drums on a semi-professional basis when he was fourteen and went on  to back Tom Jones  in his early days in Welsh working mens clubs.  Chris' introduction ot Manfred Mann came when he was booked for a Chapter III recording session.
Colin Pattenden is 23 years old was born in Farnborough, Kent.  His musical background includes backing Engelbert Humperdink, Leapy Lea and Solomon King.  Chris was introduced to Manfred through Chris Slade.