XTC and The Groupies Collide

Its no secret or surprise that Famous Groupies are BIG, BIG, BIG fans of that BIG, BIG, BIG band known as XTC. I sometimes refer to them as 'the other Beatles'. I could gush for hours over Andy and Colin's brilliant songwriting, massive creativity and masterful playing, but right now I would like to gush over and give praise to the genius of the third member of said band, Mr. Dave Gregory.

Dave has been one of my very favourite guitarists since I first heard his playing on the album "Skylarking". From there I explored the XTC catalogue (Oranges and Lemons, Big Express, English Settlement, Non Such, and the rest) and I was overwhelmed by Dave's brilliant and at times unusual guitar chords and phrasings. Incredibly melodic and precise solos, always spot-on perfect, and don't get me started on those glorious guitar sounds/tones. He is clearly a wizard, head and shoulders above all other guitar players in the game.

And so, one day while reviewing the songs for Black Apple,  several songs struck me as having a sort signature that reminded me of XTC. I thought to myself, hmm, these songs would sound really, really great if Dave Gregory were to play on them. So I mustered up the courage,  rung him up and to me delight he was as nice as can be.  A true gentleman, incredibly generous of heart. I then sent him the first song, which he loved, then a second, then a third....etc. It was such a treat to work with Dave these past four months, and 9 or so songs later. Dave's guitar compositions and performances have truly elevated Black Apple to heights we could  have never reached on our own. We owe him a great debt for that. He has our gratitude and undying love.

The next single to be released will feature Dave Gregory on guitar, and its a real stunner too! Even Andy Partridge liked it! We hope you will too.  Keep an eye out for it.

Cheers to Dave!


KM and Famous Groupies