biography

Born and raised in Perth, Scotland, my first interest in music was kindled by early Shadows records (OK - not exactly cool these days, but honest!). I started playing guitar at the age of 12 and formed my first band with school friends within a few months.

I played in a number of increasingly successful local bands throughout the sixties and early seventies, mostly with kindred spirits who wanted to stay away from the mainstream and explore a few musical boundaries.

Although I did a bit of singing, guitar playing was my main thing in those days, mostly using my trusty (and now retired) Futurama III.

Probably the best-known band was Coalition which I formed with long-time friend and collaborator Pat Mason in the late 60s (we still meet up regularly, though Pat's now in London). Coalition came very close to getting the big break, playing a number of prestige headline and support appearances across Scotland.

However, things didn't quite work out, Coalition split up and I put music on the back burner for several years as I carved out a career in IT. (I think of this period as something of a musical "dark ages" !)

In more recent times I've returned to my music, putting all these years of real-life experience to what I hope is good use.

I still regard guitar as my main instrument, and the one I use most for songwriting duties. I have added a few instruments to the mix, though, including bass guitar, banjo, mandolin, keyboards and drum programming.

These days most of my musical efforts are directed towards songwriting, arranging and recording, using my own digital recording facilities.