One On One
Dave Ingham - Lead Vocals, Guitar
Tim Latham - Guitar, backing vocals
[Also in: Omen, Mr Cyn, Badger]
Stuart Pickett - Drums
[Also in: Mr Cyn, Big Screen, Aardwolf, Badger, Bash Out The Odd v.1, Bash Out The Odd v.2, Bash Out The Odd v.3]
Andy Malkin - Bass, backing vocals
[Also in: Mr Cyn, Big Screen, Aardwolf, Badger]
Gary Lancaster - Keyboards
[Also in: Mr Cyn, Big Screen]
20/01/84
One On One
BHX
Tamworth Arts Centre
20/04/84
Artful Dodger
One In One
Tamworth Arts Centre
11/05/84
BHX
Breaking Point
One On One
Tamworth Arts Centre
23/06/84
One On One
Wilnecote Carnival
27/06/84
One On One
Tamworth Progressive Club
29/06/84
One On One
Atherstone Memorial Hall
18/08/84
One On One
Austrey Working Mens Club
29/09/84
One On One
Redshift
Tamworth Arts Centre
22/12/84
Wolfsbane
One On One
Tamworth Arts Centre
07/04/85
One On One
Gaf The Horse In Tears
Tamworth Arts Centre
08/06/85
One On One
Chance
Tamworth Arts Centre
11/10/85
One On One
Powerplay
Tamworth Arts Centre
Tamworth Herald – 20/01/84
HEAVY ROCK music in Tamworth is all set for a comeback in 1984. That is the confident prediction of top rock guitarist Tim Latham who tonight launches his new band One On One at the Arts Centre.
Tim, the former Omen star, says that One On One are just the first of many heavy bands set to emerge in the town over the next few months to change the current musical climate.
Recently, heavy rock, which once dominated the town’s music scene, has been in decline as new, more modern-sounding groups have taken control.
Only BHX and Hardware have managed to keep the rock flag flying, nut now Tim says One On One are ready to step into excite Tamworth’s power-starved fans.
“We play traditional heavy rock with a commercial base,” said Tim. “It is quite different to most labels on our sound, but I hope it will go down well.”
The line-up for One On One (who were briefly called Roseham) implies that they are going to be a tour-de-force in local music circles.
As well as the highly talented Tim on guitar and backing vocals, One On One also boast Dave Ingham on guitar and lead vocals.
The drummer – for the moment at least – is Eyes sticksman Stuart Blaine, arguably the most experienced and exciting rock drummer in Tamworth.
And just to complete the excellent line-up is former Ethis frontsman Ralph Sandland making a welcome return to the local scene on bass and vocals.
The quartet begin their campaign to turn Tamworth ‘rockwards’ tonight when they line-up with BHX at the Arts Centre.
BHX will be looking to further consolidate their position as the town’s most popular heavy band with their original and exciting brand of accessible rock.
The gig, which begins at 8pm and costs just 50p, promises to be an exciting night for the town’s rock fans.
“We are intending to go all the way with this band,” said Tim. “We have all been in bands before but we are confident and enthusiastic enough to try and make this oen the big one.”
Tamworth fans will have the chance to judge for themselves when the doors open tonight at around 7.30pm.
SAM HOLLIDAY
Tamworth Herald – 03/02/84
One on One are looking to play another gig at the Arts Centre in February following their highly enjoyable debut there last week. Now they are looking for a good band to support them.
Tamworth Herald – 10/02/84
One on One are at the Arts Centre on Saturday and they will be playing with a promising new rock band who we plan to feature in a future Musicbox. A night not to be missed.
Tamworth Herald – 27/04/84
Artful Dodger gave an all round excellent performance with every number of the band working as one, and the group never faltered through the set.
Most of the credit should go to the lead singer/guitarist who played an excellent part in expressing the songs.
The music ranged from Dire Straits to a more funky rock. And the overall verdict? A very promising band, very entertaining.
Next up were One on One who I think gave a more relaxed performance. Many people who haven’t seen the group, think they are just another heavy metal outfit, they are very much mistaken. There is something about them that is a bit special.
Although their set wasn’t as polished as Artful Dodgers’, One on One created a far more lively atmosphere.
What makes the band special for me is the communication with the audience, the sing-along choruses and the excellent vocal work.
Dave Ingram (Ingham – Ed.) has an excellent night – his voice getting better all the time.
Tim Latham played some superb lead at times but others became a bit predictable. And it was also nice to hear two people working as one in the rhythm section. Ralph Sandland playing some good funky bass and Stuart Blaine showing he is progressing all the time with his skilful drumming.
S. T.
Tamworth Herald – 11/05/84
THREE OF Tamworth’s top bands will tonight (Friday), converge on the Arts Centre to play a special charity concert.
The bands – BHX, One On One and Breaking Point – have all volunteered to give their services free in aid of the Marie Curie Fund aiming to fight cancer.
And with tickets costing just 50p, it means that local people can do their bit for charity – and have a great night out in the process.
The idea to do a charity concert came from top rockers BHX, who will tonight be aiming to re-state their case that they are Tamworth’s most popular heavy band.
The quartet, who recently gave a fine show alongside glam rockers The Sumo Giants, ahev a varied, melodious rock sound that many local punters have likened to Rush. The group who are getting more ambitious with every gig, will probably headline tonight’s show which begins at around 8pm.
Alongside BHX are One On One who have been steadily building up a following since they launched they launched themselves on the area earlier this year.
Much praise
One On One’s sound, although rock orientated, has a feel all of its own which distances them somewhat from the straight rock sound that some people have tried to confer on them.
Their recent show at the Arts Centre brought widespread praise, and they will be keen to keep up the momentum when they step out for tonight’s performance.
Also aiming to keep up the momentum are the excellent Breaking Point, who, after just two viewings, have convinced me that they are potentially the best band in Tamworth.
With passion
The trio play a set of nearly all their own material packed full of rousing guitar breaks, sing-along choruses and that vital spark of passion that can send shivers through an audience.
They are Tamworth’s answer to the Alarm, U2 and New Model Army, and I would urge anyone who likes bite and feeling in their music to come along and cheer them tonight.
All three bands have a lot to offer, and with a worthy cancer charity standing to benefit, Tamworth’s rock fans should pack out the Arts Centre and make it a night to remember.
SAM HOLLIDAY
Tamworth Herald – 18/05/84
BHX/One On One/ Breaking Point
TAMWORTH’S music fans turned out of force on Friday night to give a bumper boost to a leading local charity.
For the Arts Centre was packed to near capacity to enjoy the special charity gig which was held in aid of the Marie Curie Fund for fighting cancer.
And the reward for Tamworth’s big-hearted music followers was a varied and highly enjoyable gig by three of the town’s best groups.
Opening the proceedings were the spirited Breaking Point, who had to battle not only against a fairly rock-orientated audience, but also some terrible sound problems.
The latter hampered the trio’s set from the beginning but despite this, the sheer awesome power and passionate delivery that characterise the band still shone through. Newer numbers like ‘Resurrection’ fitted in comfortably by ‘old’ favourites such as ‘My Love Lies Bleeding’ and the apocalyptic ‘Nicholas Romanov’ which still sends a shiver down my spine every time I hear it.
After the gig, Breaking Point were clearly very unhappy because of their sound problems – but the crowd still loved it and gave the band one of the best receptions ever.
Next up were One on One and although I prefer Breaking Point’s songs and style, I have to admit that they were the real show-stealers on the night.
Playing with a relaxed air of confidence, they delivered a set which had the audience mesmerised and the compliments flying round the room.
Musically they have no equals in the town, from the solid drumming of Stuart Blaine to the sheer skill and inventiveness of guitarist Tim Latham. For me the real icing on the cake is still the cool and harmonious vocal work of Dave Ingham, who seems to get better and more confident with every show.
How long Tamworth will be able to keep One on One remains to be seen for I have no doubt that sooner rather than later, someone is going to pluck them out of the town and make them very, very big indeed.
In the meantime just enjoy them while you can…
Thundering
Completing Friday’s line up were the gig organisers BHX, who brought their own original brand of rock to the still-enthusiastic Arts Centre crowd.
BHX turned in their normal high-powered selection of thundering heavy numbers and more gently melodious rock numbers. They have come on in leaps and bounds recently and now look like a total rock package.
They have sharpened up their image (always important in these look-conscious days) and they have become a tighter, more accessible outfit.
Perhaps they could have shortened their set somewhat – we had to wait until the encore to hear the excellent ‘Superstar’ – but that apart, they played a crowd-pleasing and entertaining set which has probably gained them even more followers.
So closed a highly-successful night which was good for the bands, goof for the crowds and, best of all, good for the Marie Curie Cancer Fund.
With the success of this one, it strikes me we ought to have more charity concerts…
Tamworth Herald – 22/06/84
SITTING PRETTY, who have their debut single out next week, will be playing another gig tonight to promote the release.
The gig at the Arts Centre is the latest in a series by the band and has been hastily arranged. In spite of this, tickets are already selling well, confirming the ever-increasing popularity of this ambitious quartet.
Supporting Sitting Pretty tonight will be Mystic Hero, the young pop outfit whose recent performance at the Arts Centre and the Tavern in the Town have made a lot of people sit up and take notice.
Mystic Hero play a varied selection of modern pop with influences varying from rock and roll to the more mainstream synth rock. Tickets for the show should be on sale at Tamdisc Records and can also be bought on the door. More details about Sitting Pretty’s single will be available in next week’s Musicbox.
 ONE ON ONE, the ever-improving rock outfit who are filling various venues everywhere they go, have announced a series of dates to promote their soon-released demo tape. The gig kicks off on Saturday when the band will enjoy a prestigious spot at the Wilnecote Carnival at Ninefoot Park. The band will be on at around 5.40pm and it is hoped that they will be selling their long-awaited tape on the day. Other gigs so far confirmed for the outfit are June 27 at Tamworth Progressive Club, June 29 (provisionally) at Atherstone Memorial Hall and July at Donisthorpe Colliery.
Tamworth Herald – 06/07/84
ONE ON ONE would like to say thank-you to all the people who turned out to see them at Wilnecote Carnival recently – where severe sound problems hampered their performance.
A surprising outbreak of rain clogged up the sound system producing a somewhat neutered version of One On One’s normal rock sound and they hope people were not too disappointed.
NB…We hope to be featuring the band’s new demo tape in next week’s Musicbox.
Tamworth Herald – 13/07/84
 One On One – debut demo cassette
IN JUST a few short months, One On One have managed to completely conquer Tamworth. Every gig they play in the town is nearly always a sell-out as people from punks to rockers, loyally turn up to cheer on this hard-working and very ambitious quartet.
But what is the secret of One On One’s undoubted pulling power? Well the answer is simple – they have a healthy capacity for writing lively and original songs which cut straight across normal rock and pop barriers and should appeal to most people who like modern, varied rock.
At times, for example, this tape reminds me of Genesis, but then at the other extreme, some of the guitar work (and I doubt whether this will have struck the band at all) sounds very much like that adopted by latter day Stiff Little Fingers.
The unpredictability of sound makes One On One’s set – and this tape – constantly interesting. The demo opens with the tune that reminds me of an uptempo Genesis – ‘Alibi Smiles’.
With the addition of Ralph Sandland on keyboards, this track coasts along comfortably, undulating and changing like an erratic symphony, but reaching a well balanced climax.
The only thing I was not sure about were the lyrics – one of which, ‘spiral staircase compromise is overwhelming you’ is either very clever or pointless. Either way, it adds to the feel that you are listening to a Fish or Collins’ composition.
But it’s all change for the next track which is a far more commercial, pop-orientated number called ‘Hold On’. This is superbly sung by Dave Ingham and has a very nice feel to it throughout. It is here where the conflicting guitars of Dave Ingham and fret-master Tim Latham remind me of SLF and it adds to the intrigue of trying to suitably label this very varied outfit.
Over on side two of the tape, we find the more traditional rock of ‘Midnight Man’ which, as the title perhaps indicates, is very much in the Rainbow mould. However it is brightened up completely by a short but effective Brian May-style guitar break at the end of the track.
And so to the fourth and final track – which to my ears is by far and away the best, ‘Poppy Red’ is based around a memorable, punchy chorus which is the natural climax of a series of subtle and always threatening verses.
It has the sort of tune that is just so simple and wholesome that it makes you wonder why no-one else has used it before and if I had to criticise One On One’s judgement, I would say that putting this track last is an unwise move.
Record company bosses who are not impressed by the first minute or two of a tape rarely give it a chance to get better, and although opener ‘Alibi Smiles’ is my second favourite number ‘Poppy Red’ should have held the premier place because it is so immediate that few people could dislike it.
Still, that apart, this is another fine example of just how a studio can really bring out the best in a band. The tape has a crisp lively, well-produced feel and as well as satisfying their own army of supporters, it should convince the people that matter in this business that One On One are a band to be taken seriously.
Copies of the tape should be available from members of the band and when you’re buying them, would you do me a favour by asking what the heck a ‘spiral staircase compromise’ is?
SAM HOLLIDAY
Tamworth Herald – 20/07/84
ONE ONE ONE received a shock last week when bassist Ralph Sandland announced that he was quitting the band – just days after the release of the group’s excellent new demo cassette.
Ralph’s decision is apparently based around musical differences with the rest of the group, but his decision to leave while the band were on such a high is the biggest surprise.
The remaining three members of the band – Stu Blaine, Dave Ingham and Tim Latham – immediately had to cancel a number of gigs, but they say they will hope to go ahead with the concert with glam-rockers Wolfsbane, pencilled in for July 28 at the Arts Centre.
By then the group hope to have replaced Ralph and anyone who would like to fill the vacancy is asked to ring Stu.
Tamworth Herald 28/09/84
 TAMWORTH ARTS CENTRE which has been under virtual siege from local bands recently, will this weekend welcome three groups from outside the Tamworth area. Tonight it will be the turn of two of Lichfield’s finest acts Soul Exit and 20/20 Vision to attempt to take the town by storm and then tomorrow sees Leicester-based Redshift teaming up with One On One for a double rock package.
Tonight’s show looks like being one of the most original the town has seen for quote a while. Headliners Soul Exit describe their sound as a form of ‘psychedelic jazz’ influenced by everyone from Simon Garfunkel to The Teardrop Explodes.
They say their sound is normally most popular with ‘art-college types and by all accounts it is rarely, if ever, heard in this town.
Already they have quite a following in Lichfield and their set of original and sometimes very uplifting numbers has led Lichfield Mercury music writer Alan Boughey to describe them as his favourite local band.
 Playing alongside Soul Exit are another band who – if their influences alone are anything to go by – should prove a tasty treat. 20/20 Vision are an experienced powerful pop band whose sound is said to have undertones of The Buzzcocks, Velvet Underground and The Doors.
It is a sound that is based on power first and they have a reputation for hitting their audience hard. All in all it looks like being a great night for all the various strands of Tamworth’s ‘alternative’ sector for just 75p.
Beautiful assets
But if it’s rock you want, then the Arts Centre is the place tomorrow night when arguably the town’s most musically advanced band One On One will play alongside powerful trio Redshift.
One On One’s bountiful assets are well know to everyone but tomorrow will probably be the first chance for most people to see new bassist Andy Malkin in action following the departure of Ralph Sandland earlier this year
Andy, who used to front Badger and Aardwolf, is a well-respected musician and there is no doubt that if anyone can fill the great gap caused by Ralph’s departure, it is him.
Playing with One On One, will be Redshift – who like One On One have a strong link with former Tamworth favourite’s Omen. For Redshift are fronted by ex-Omenite Rick Liggins who discovered how tow fellow musicians Tim Myers and Richard Chapman whilst studying at Leicester and has now developed a strong bond with the duo.
Rick is quick to point out that Redshift – who are actually making the debut tomorrow – are a far cry from Omen and have numbers influenced by acts as extreme and varied as Rush, Kiss and Triumph. They describe their sound as original rock which is very powerful in its approach and sound.
“We have spent a long time getting the music as tight and powerful as we can and now we are ready we are looking forward to testing ourselves out at Tamworth,” said Rick.
The trio are now hoping to take their sound all round the Midlands and they say a good reaction in Tamworth will really set them on the right road.
”I feel we could go down pretty well because our music is powerful and exciting,” said Rick.
Tomorrow’s two-band affair costs just 50p and tickets are available from the Arts Centre, band members and on the door.
SAM HOLLIDAY
Tamworth Herald 21/12/84
MUSICBOX is having a seasonal break this week in preparation for a bumper full page special next week which will give you all the details of who has won what in out record breaking poll.
The polls have been piling in since Day One and we have now passed the magical figure of 500 votes – including those for 20 different local bands.
Everything will be revealed next week but in the meantime there are three good gigs to put I your diary over the Christmas period.
‘Rock’ ranks
Tonight (Friday), rock hits the Arts Centre in the shape of two of the areas biggest and boldest outfits – BHX and Scarab.
And then tomorrow, the outrageously wonderful Wolfsbane will join up with the equally wonderful One On One for a Christmas special that promises a lot. Wolfsbane who were delighted to be banned from The Railway tavern for being too outrageous – have promised their normal high spirits, and with One On One’s consistent style, the Arts Centre looks like being packed to the rafters.
Better late…
And finally The Dream Factory will be playing a belated Christmas show on December 27 at Grendon Working Men’s Club. The Factory are expecting hordes of people to turn up to a gig that will be the culmination of a year that the band are unlikely to forget.
It just remains for me to wish all Tamworth’s musicians and music fans and MUSICBOX contributors a very happy Christmas packed full of your favourite Yuletide spirit.
SAM HOLLIDAY
Tamworth Herald – 01/02/85
TAMWORTH is to stage its first-ever ‘Battle of the Bands’ competition next month. The contest, to find Tamworth’s top group, is part of the Young People’s Arts Festival event which is held in the town every two years.
The contest will stretch over five nights at the Tamworth Arts Centre and 16 bands have been lined up to chase the first prize of a special trophy.
The way the contest is run is simple. There will be four qualifying heats with the winners of each earning themselves a guaranteed place in the final.
In addition, there will be a place for the best runner-up, to make a five-band final on Saturday February 23.
The idea for the contest has been around for a long time, following the repeated success of a similar venture in Burton. When the idea was put before Tamworth’s bands, the contest was greeted with universal enthusiasm.
The award follows hot on the heels of Musicbox’s own popular top band contest in which Dream factory took first place.
Competing
The contest gets underway on Thursday, February 14, when Dance Stance, One On One, Love On Board and The Original Royal Family will be competing for a final place.
On each of the four nights each band will be given a maximum of 25 minutes to impress the five judges, who will each give points on content, presentation and, in tru ‘New Faces’ style, star quality.
The acts will be marked out of 10 for content and five for the other two categories, enabling the five judges to award a maximum of 100 points between them.
For the overall winner in each heat, their place in the final is ensured, but for the second-placed bands there will be a nail-biting wait to see which runners-up have the highest points.
As an added incentive, all the five finalists have been guaranteed a place in the August Bank Holiday Festival.
Each of the qualifying heat concerts will cost just 50p admission, and the final, on February 23, will cost 60p. For the bands themselves it will be a unique chance to see who is the local ‘top of the pops’, but for the Tamworth public, it will mean five very good – and very cheap – concerts.
The full night by night line-up is printed below.
Thursday 14th
Dance Stance, One On One, Love On Board, Original Royal Family
Friday 15th
Child’s Play, Wolfsbane, Pulsebeat, Scarab
Saturday 16th
A5, Spirit of Water, Ideal Standard, Sitting Pretty
Friday 22nd
Breaking point, BHX, Caprice, Sacred Oath
Tamworth Herald – 22/02/85
Smashing time as riot hits stage
TOMORROW night Tamworth Arts Centre will play host to the final of the keenly-fought ‘Battle of the Bands’ contest.
The final, featuring five groups will be the culmination of four strong heats, the last of which is at the Arts Centre tonight (Friday),
Already the contest has attracted great interest and has been packed full of surprises and controversy.
It all began last Thursday when three very different acts – Dance Stance, One On One and The Original Royal Family took to the stage.
Controversy started to rage however, when one of the five judges was disqualified for walking out half-way through the gig of the last band The Royal Family. The disqualification gave One On One a clear victory, making them the first band into the final – and therefore the Bank Holiday rock festival.
Overflowing
Twenty-four hours later at the Arts Centre a packed-to-overflowing audience saw an amazing four-band contest. Childs Play opened the proceedings with their former guitarist, who had been dragged out of the bar because their normal player had disappeared!
The shock continued when Vicious Malicious – an unholy alliance of Select Elect and The Elusive They took to the stage and proceeded to smash up guitars and tape recorders as well as run riot with a chainsaw. The word was bizarre. All part of the act, of course.
And, if that wasn’t enough of a culture shock to the audience, then the new Pulsebeat, who after starting cautiously, had the whole crowd on their feet with some brilliant, individual guitar playing.
By now nothing could be surprising – but last band Scarab almost were. They came on and gave a blinding show bashing out 100mph rock anthems which sent their loyal fans into a state of acute frenzy. They threw in volcano-style fireworks, flashing lights and fake blood to provide a riveting performance. Needless to say they won, so booking their automatic place in tomorrow’s final.
The third heat was held last night (Thursday) and one of the following four acts will be in tomorrows final – Ideal Standard, Spirit of Water and Sitting Pretty.
The final heat will be tonight when Breaking Point, BHX, Sacred Oath and Caprice will battle it out.
Each of the acts has a lot going for them and predicting the result is extremely difficult.
BHX have proved their status by being offered several dates all round the country; Sacred Oath are now back fresher and more determined; Caprice get more confident with every gig and Breaking Point are Breaking point.
Surpassed
Don’t forget there will also be a place in tomorrow’s final for the highest scoring runner-up during the whole contest.
On the first two heats, Childs Play and Pulsebeat both with 59 points held second equal though it is likely that this total will be surpassed tomorrow night.
So an extraordinary night is in prospect. The finalists will be given only 20 minutes to impress the judges that they are Tamworth’s top band. The overall winner will be invited to play at the Young People’s Arts festival night in March where they will also be presented with their winning trophy.
Saturday’s final starts at around 8pm and entry is 60p. it is going to be packed to the rafters so people are advised to arrive early to enjoy this potentially tremendous occasion.
SAM HOLLIDAY
Tamworth Herald – 01/03/85
LAST SATURDAY saw the climax of one of Tamworth’s biggest ever rock contests – with the trio, Breaking Point, being hailed as the town’s top band.
Fore the past fortnight, Tamworth’s music scene has been monopolised by the “Battle of the Bands” competition. It has been a full-blown fight between 16 competitors to find out the cream of the local groups.
After a series of heats which have seen musicians smashing up their instruments on stage, lead singers “bleeding” fake blood, a judge being disqualified for seeking refuge in the bar during the heat of the action and the Arts Centre filled to the brim night after night, there was no knowing what would appeal to the judges of the final.
Breaking Point did. The three musicians delivered a potent package with professional verve. Where other bands leaned heavily on the impact of barrages of sound, they concentrated on detail. Vocals were clear and rhythm and bass powerful and gripping.
Breaking Point were awarded 88 points out of a possible 100 and will receive their trophy at the Young People’s Arts Festival night later this month.
Five bands qualified for the last leg of this sonic spectacular. The five brought with them the crowds of faithful fans who were packed like sardines into the rainbow-lit auditorium.
Unlike sardines they represented five wildly different types of music. The discrepancies of opinion in the audience were mirrored in the judges’ panel…each judge showed a tendency towards extreme reaction to the bands – they loved them or hated them.
Poor imitation
Joint fifth place went to BHX and Spirit of Water. BHX were the first to perform and it was a disappointing start to the evening. The band were a poor imitation of some of the more forgettable heavy-metal groups.
No matter how much the vocalist screamed and bawled, he didn’t manage to put himself over at all. I did detect a melody at one point but it fizzled out pretty soon beneath the drummer’s monotonous onslaught. I hear BHX have a national tour on the cards. Perhaps they were having an off night?
I was surprised that Spirit of Water didn’t do better. There was plenty of variety in their performance and the group had the advantage of a talented vocalist. They were seen at their best in their final number called The Fox.
One On One were placed next. They produced a well rounded sound though unfortunately the performance was a little disturbed by microphone trouble.
The outrageous Scarab were the runners-up. If there had been a prize for the highest number of decibels achieved, they certainly would have won. After the fireworks, the fake blood, the amazing verbal ad-libbing from the band and the blatant flouting of the 20-minute time limit. I scarcely noticed the music. But frenzied fans seemed to like it. And that, as the lead singer pointed out in no uncertain terms, is what it’s all about.
Tamworth Herald – 05/04/85
TWO of Tamworth’s most original bands will hit the Arts Centre stage on Saturday for one of the most eagerly awaited gigs in the town this year. The highly-rated One On One will join forces with a band going by the bizarre name of Gaf The Horse in Tears for a very promising double-bill.
For Gaf, it will be their first ever gig in Tamworth, while for Bank holiday festival entrants, One On One, it will be another chance to sharpen up their stage show in front of a capacity audience.
Gaf have only been together a short while in the present format. Three of the members Tony Cole, Stuart Bailey and Robin Bowne used to play with Eyes, while the fourth member Ted Wilson will best be remembered for playing in Omen a few years back.
All four musicians have been itching to get back on stage and have worked flat out to prepare for tomorrow’s event.
Different
“Eyes were a very lazy band really so I wanted this one to be different,” said Robin. “After just a couple of practices with Ted we knew it was going to work and we set ourselves a time for playing our first gig,” he added.
For Ted, finding Gaf was a great relief after several months of doing virtually nothing.
”I tried other bands but they never came up to much and I was ready to give it up altogether until I met this group,” he said.
Like One On One the band is made up of experienced musicians who feel their music cuts across normal barriers. Trying to pin them down to what they sound like is about as easy as crossing the Atlantic on a rubber duck.
“Ever song is different which makes it impossible to label us,” said Ted. The group did admit a few influences but even those didn’t help as they ranged from The Police to Rush.
The emphasis is on short relatively commercial songs which the band hope will appeal to w wide cross section. But what I am sure most people want to know is where on earth did they get that name?
“It’s from a book. We wanted to get away from one word names,” said Robin. Tomorrow looks like being a testing time for Gaf but for headliners One On One there are no such worries.
Superb
Few people would argue that as musicians they have no equals in the town. Tim Latham is in my opinion the best and most consistent guitarist in the area for the past five years. Andy Malkin is a first class bassist; Nigel Rowed one of the most inventive keyboard players around; Davie Ingham has a superb voice and Stu ‘Have-drums-will travel! Blaine is certainly the best drummer in Tamworth at the moment.
Put together, you have an amazing musical cocktail and one which will probably be drunk eagerly by the Arts Centre crowd.
Tamworth Herald – 19/04/85
One On One/Gaf the Horse In Tears – Tamworth Arts Centre
 ALTHOUGH attendances at Tamworth gigs have never been better, there are still a great deal of young music fans who never go to concerts.
Many do not go because they suffer from that age-old Tamworth disease of apathy, but many even less inspiring people refuse to go because they moan ‘none of the bands in the area can play their instruments.’
Well, there is little we can do to stop the apathy, but if One On One and Gaf The Horse In Tears have anything to do with it, the myth of unprofessional musicianship can be blown forever.
For here are two bands who have so much technical ability as any I have seen in my six years as a Tamworth music follower. Even those who do not like the music the two bands create, cannot help but admire the way they create it which smacks of dedication and talent from start to finish.
Gaf’s ability is particularly noteworthy as they have only been together in their present format for a few months. Altough musically they tend to veer towards the mid-Seventies (which I regard with the sort of affection that a pretty teenager regards a facial wart) they do have a certain spring in their step which is endearing.
Their opening number for example was a jovial, well-paced song called ‘Time Dancing’ which appeared to mix the commerciality of Phil Collins with the feel of King Crimson or Crème.
“Machine Motion” is even better, as it is built around a mesmerising much-repeated guitar riff from Ted Wilson – a superb guitarist who has been away from the scene far too long.
Triumph
What also makes the band a treat is that unlike many technically impressive outfits they do have a great sense of humour. Tony Cole has a neat line in between track chat (although I wish he hadn’t worn those shorts!) and the band as a whole seemed happy to play a two minute minuter which (I kid you not) sounded like an unholy alliance between Supertramp and The Wombles. All I all a very interesting debut set indeed.
For One On One the gig was yet another personal triumph which was lapped up by their eager followers. They hardly put a note – let alone a foot wrong and once again the key word of the night was professionalism.
But I do have a ‘but’. The thing that slightly disappointed me about the band was the direction their new material seems to be taking.
What used to make One On One so special – and unique – was that they could combine a progressive rock feel with a nice array of melodies. This ensured that not only rock fans could enjoy their progressive sound.
However, it seems that the melodies and commercial elements have been pushed aside in search of ever-more technical prowess. This became noticeable when One On One played their oldies such as “Fade Away” and “Don’t Stop The Captain”.
These are clearly songs that can appeal to everyone whereas I thought some of the new material as perhaps a little self-indulgent and potentially less attractive to a wide audience.
Still, that apart, it was nevertheless an enjoyable set. Everyone performed with exuberance and enthusiasm particularly Gary Lancaster (who is not Nigel Roe in disguise!) on keyboards and Dave Ingham on vocals.
To me, Dave is a man who belongs on a far bigger stage that the Tamworth Arts Centre. He has the looks, talent, charisma and style to go a very long way and although a strong team unit, I feel the more they promote Dave the better their chances are of attracting national interest.
So, a memorable gig for a number of reasons. It showed two bands with similar appeal in the full flight of enjoying the music they produce. The market for their music is potentially enormous and I sincerely hope that both bands will seek out that hole in the market and fill it before someone less worthy does so.
Tamworth Herald – 07/06/85
A HOST of Tamworth bands will be on show in the next few days in what promises to be the most exciting week so far this year.
The Dream Factory, Dickens, One On One, Gaf The Horse In Tears and Love On Board will all be in action in the next few days making it a week to remember.
Top ‘billing’ must go to The Dream Factory who on Saturday will step out in front of an amazing 20,000 at Castle Donington.
Major event
Then on Thursday the Dickens world tour comes to Tamworth Assembly Rooms for a three-band show which looks like being a major event in itself.
And finally tomorrow night sees One On One bringing their rich talents to the Arts Centre where they will be lining up with Birmingham outfit Chance.
For the Factory there is no doubt that their appearance at the Monsters of Soul event is a career highlight so far. The band were confirmed on to the bill two weeks ago and it means they will be playing with the burly, boisterous Bad Manners and the highly-rated Meteors. The event is seen as the scooter event of the year and there is no doubt that hundreds of local riders will travel along to cheer on their heroes.
Neo-legendary
The Factory, who looked in good form when I caught them at The Warren last week – should include the neo-legendary Dave Smith in their line-up making sure that one Royal Family – if not the other – is represented at the event.
The gig is the highlight of a spate of shows for the band and with all the expected media and spectator interest, it could really be a big break for the enthusiastic outfit.
Enthusiasm is also something which Mick Rutherford and Dickens will bring to the Assembly Rooms on Thursday. The band have many prestigious gigs lined-up all around the country but there is no doubt that there is something special about ‘coming home’. The gig, to start at around 8pm costs £1.50 and punters will also have the chance to see two exciting support acts. They will be joined by the hard-to-define but easy-to-enjoy Gaf The Horse In Tears and the happy-go-lucky but determined-to-succeed Love On Board.
Dickens will be selling copies of their excellent album ‘Standing Out’ on the night and there is a good chance music company executives will be watching. EMI, CBS and Virgin have all confirmed they will be sending A and R men to watch the band on tour and the group have also heard that they are to get a half-hour show on the Steve Williams Radio Mercia show on June 16.
On film
As well as coming out of the airwaves Dickens may also come out of the little screen shortly as two gigs at Stafford and Nuneaton are being filmed for possible television shows. A Thursday night gig not to be missed.
Less grandiose maybe, but equally important to the group, is One On One’s show at the Arts Centre tomorrow. There the band will be able to test out the numbers they are hoping to record on to new demo next week.
It will be the band’s second trip into the studio following an excellent demo early last year. One On One will be playing with Chance a band who are not unfamiliar to me! Entry to this gig is just 60p and it looks like being another enjoyable night.
So a week full of excitement. For One On One to test out new material to be recorded. For Dickens a chance to get the ‘home’ verdict on ‘Standing Out’ and for The Dream Factory a chance to go further down the road to their inevitable success. It is further proof that Tamworth’s music scene is buzzing at a wonderfully alarming rate.
Tamworth Herald – 19/07/85
 One On One – Demo
SOMETIMES WHEN you listen to a group’s music you get the distinct feeling they have been born 10 years too late – or even 10 years too early. With One On One, however, their timing is not the problem – they have just been born 3,000 miles away from their natural home!
For after just one playing (and several more to confirm my ‘suspicions’) I could hear America all over this tape. Listening to it like listening to American FM radio – it is neither ‘rock’ nor ‘pop’, just, something vaguely between the two.
Personally, I don’t particularly enjoy this style of music, but I pride myself ona t least being able to separate the good the bad – and this is definitely in the first category.
Its greatest asset is the sheer quality and purity of the sound which leaves all – and I mean ALL of the 50 or so demos I have heard in the last couple of years – well behind. It sounds like vinyl quality and the only noises you get on the tape are the musical ones you are supposed to – there’s not a hiss in sight.
The sings – to my surprise – are all relatively brief which is an advantage for possible radio play, but personally, I think a disadvantage for One On One.
We all know the band’s most outstanding feature is the sheer professionalism of their musicianship, but not once do they allow themselves even the minor self-indulgence of a decent guitar break by Tim Latham.
This is a guitarist of the highest quality but apart from a couple of skilful Lathamesque tricks, Tim’s true ability, sadly, does not really come out of the speakers on this demo. Still, at least that gives Dave Ingham more prominence and once again this modest singer really turns on the style.
I have often harped on about his undoubted talent, but on this tape, it really does speak for itself. He is capable of both tender sensitivity and more jovial vocalising and I would boldly say he is the best local singer I have ever heard in my six years of following the Tamworth music scene.
Elsewhere, the rest of the band also perform well (Stuart Blaine is becoming a drumming dead ringer for Phil Collins to my ears) and I am sure the whole group listen to this tape with immense pride.
I still can’t help wishing they were still producing the sort of rock that made ‘Poppy red’ and ‘Don’t Stop The Captain’ such treats, but I suppose I will have to accept that One on One have matured beyond the barriers of my musical taste.
Tamworth Herald – 04/10/85
One On One are also sharpening their spurs for another show at the Arts Centre next week. They will be playing with the very hardworking Powerplay who have lined up to more shows – at the Railway on October 27 and JBs Dudley on December 5.
Tamworth Herald – 11/10/85
ONE ON ONE join forces with Powerplay tonight in a show that looks set to be another Arts Centre sell-out. Both groups are currently riding on the crest of a wave thanks to two very, different – but still very well received – demo tapes.
One On One whose following is probably as strong and committed as anyone’s in Tamworth, play music which blends English ideals and approach, with American influences and style.
It is a mixture which has earned them almost universal praise – not least from former Dexys man and Expresso Bongo producer Paul Speare who said the group shone out at this year’s festival as having the best musicians in the town.
Expresso Bongo has also helped Powerplay recently, producing for them a very strong and well orchestrated demo tape. The group have an image and style that has aready made them many friends among Tamworth’s shock-metal fraternity, but their American cars and girls style, is sure to appeal to a great deal of Springsteenian followers, who want a good night out. A fine double-bill tonight, which kicks off at 8pm.
Tamworth Herald – 13/12/85
One On One, who have been very busy lately attempting a gentle metamorphosis of their sound, have lined up a special gig at JB’s Dudley shortly after Christmas. They are hoping to take a coachload of supported to back them up. Prices are expected to be a reasonable £1.50 and if you would like to book, contact any member of the band.
Album Name: Unseen Visions Of A Future Past
 01. Don't Disturb The Water
02. Rags To Riches
03. Crown Of Thorns
04. No More Heaven
05. Green Light
06. Fools Gold
07. Wheels In Wheels
08. I'll Be There
09. You're Too Proud
10. Helpless
11. Against The Grain
12. Fiction Friction
13. Different Drums
14. Pride
15. Spikin' All The Drinkies
16. Derailed
August 24th 1986 - click on the thumbnail images to play the video clips.
By kind permission of: Andy Malkin
One on One 1982
One on One with Ralph Sandland on bass (pre-Andy Malkin),
taken from the back steps of the Old Stone Cross (the band's old rehearsal place).
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One 1985
Photograph courtesy: Pete Williams
One on One Coach & Horses 1986
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One Coach & Horses 1986
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One Coach & Horses 1986
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
Tim Latham 1985
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One 1984
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One 1985
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One 1985
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One 1986
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One 1984
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One Tamworth Rock Festival 1986
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
One on One Tamworth Rock Festival 1986
Photograph courtesy: Tim Latham
The full profile and history of One On One has yet to be added to TamworthBands.com Call back soon to read the full band details.
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