Biography
Formed by ex-members of modern jazz ensemble Blue Rondo a la Turk, Matt Bianco evolved into one of England's top jazz-pop bands. Their rendition of Georgie Fame's "Yeh Yeh" received a European music award as Best Single of 1985, while their single "Wam Bam Boogie" was the number one European club track of 1988.
The group withstood numerous personnel changes; initially featuring keyboard player Danny White, bassist Kito Poncioni, and vocalists Mark Reilly and Basia, the original group disbanded shortly after releasing their debut album, Whose Side Are You On?, in 1982. Three years later, the group was resurrected with Reilly and keyboard player Mark Fisher, who had previously appeared with the band during a live television show. The group also worked with a variety of guest vocalists. Their 1988 album, Indigo, featured the hit singles "Don't Blame It on That Girl," sung by Emilio Estefan, and "Wam Bam Boogie," sung by Ambassador. A compilation album, A/Collection, sampled earlier recordings and included a new version of "Wam Bam Boogie," featuring the vocals of Kym Mazelle.
Released in 2001, Rico, featured a blend of acid jazz and traditional Cuban rhythms. Partly recorded in the Havana studio where Wim Wenders and Ry Cooder recorded Buena Vista Social Club, the album included "Cha Cha Cuba," which reached the top of the charts in Japan.
