This UK hard rock band, formed in autumn 1992, comprises Adrian Portas (b. Sheffield, Yorkshire, England; vocals, guitar), John Alexander (b. Surrey, England; bass), Rob Todd (b. Wales; guitar) and Dave Mage (b. Buckinghamshire, England; drums). Signing to Kill City Records in 1993, they made their debut with the Methedrine EP, followed by another four-track collection, Rock Stars. This, with endearing songs such as ‘Dead Boyfriend’ and the ironic title track, brought them to the attention of a media who admired their straightforward approach to dynamic rock. The personal confessions and character studies continued on their debut album, the critically lauded Giant. It saw Portas deified, a little prematurely, as ‘the last great story-teller in rock ‘n’ roll’. Support slots with Slash’s Snakepit on their UK tour broadened their fanbase further, while Alexander’s attempts to charm Polish barmaids on their European tour saw him become a minor celebrity of the gossip columns. However, their impetus stalled in 1995 when Kill City Records collapsed. They continued to play well-received shows on the London club circuit while searching for a new recording contract. Mage was replaced in July 1996 by ex-Blue Aeroplanes drummer Graham Russell.