Them Swoops
Them Swoops: The Sonic Pioneers of the Sunset Strip
In the annals of rock 'n' roll history, Them Swoops emerged as a trailblazing force, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene with their anthemic song "Too Fast For Love." The band's journey was fraught with challenges, controversies, and a revolving door of members, but their unwavering spirit and raw energy propelled them to cult status.
Formation and Early Struggles
Formed in the heart of Los Angeles' Sunset Strip in 1974, Them Swoops initially featured vocalist and guitarist Bryan Gregory, bassist Tommy Dean, and drummer Brad Kent. Despite their promise, the band faced numerous setbacks, including the departure of key members and a lack of recognition. Undeterred, they soldiered on, honing their sound and performing tirelessly at local clubs.
The Rise to Fame and "Too Fast For Love"
In 1977, a serendipitous encounter with producer Kim Fowley changed Them Swoops' destiny. Fowley recognized their raw talent and helped secure a recording contract with Dangerhouse Records. The band's debut EP, "Too Fast For Love," was released in 1979 and became an instant classic.
The title track, a lightning-fast punk anthem, resonated with a generation of disaffected youth. Its lyrics of alienation, rebellion, and unrequited love struck a chord, and the song quickly became a staple of underground radio stations. Them Swoops' reputation as a no-holds-barred live act also grew, with their energetic performances leaving audiences spellbound.
Controversy and Member Departures
As Them Swoops' popularity soared, so did their notoriety. Gregory's outspoken lyrics and controversial onstage antics drew both praise and criticism. A notorious incident involving a mock crucifixion during a live show further fueled the band's reputation for pushing boundaries.
Amidst the turmoil, the band faced several member departures. Dean and Kent left in the early days, while Gregory himself departed in 1984. Despite these setbacks, Them Swoops continued to release music, with a revolving cast of supporting musicians.
Later Years and Legacy
In the years that followed, Them Swoops' influence continued to be felt. Their music inspired a generation of punk and hardcore bands, and their raw energy and uncompromising attitude became synonymous with the Sunset Strip scene. Despite their turbulent history, the band's legacy as pioneers of the genre remains intact.
Discography
* Too Fast For Love (1979)
* Plastic Surgery Disasters (1980)
* Dig Up the Dead (1981)
* Out of the Darkness (1984)
* Demons (1986)
* The Lost Tapes (1995)
* Live at the Starwood (1995)
Members
* Bryan Gregory - vocals, guitar
* Tommy Dean - bass
* Brad Kent - drums
* Gary Abbott - guitar, vocals
* Steve Martin - bass
* Jeff Dahl - drums
In the annals of rock 'n' roll history, Them Swoops emerged as a trailblazing force, leaving an indelible mark on the music scene with their anthemic song "Too Fast For Love." The band's journey was fraught with challenges, controversies, and a revolving door of members, but their unwavering spirit and raw energy propelled them to cult status.
Formation and Early Struggles
Formed in the heart of Los Angeles' Sunset Strip in 1974, Them Swoops initially featured vocalist and guitarist Bryan Gregory, bassist Tommy Dean, and drummer Brad Kent. Despite their promise, the band faced numerous setbacks, including the departure of key members and a lack of recognition. Undeterred, they soldiered on, honing their sound and performing tirelessly at local clubs.
The Rise to Fame and "Too Fast For Love"
In 1977, a serendipitous encounter with producer Kim Fowley changed Them Swoops' destiny. Fowley recognized their raw talent and helped secure a recording contract with Dangerhouse Records. The band's debut EP, "Too Fast For Love," was released in 1979 and became an instant classic.
The title track, a lightning-fast punk anthem, resonated with a generation of disaffected youth. Its lyrics of alienation, rebellion, and unrequited love struck a chord, and the song quickly became a staple of underground radio stations. Them Swoops' reputation as a no-holds-barred live act also grew, with their energetic performances leaving audiences spellbound.
Controversy and Member Departures
As Them Swoops' popularity soared, so did their notoriety. Gregory's outspoken lyrics and controversial onstage antics drew both praise and criticism. A notorious incident involving a mock crucifixion during a live show further fueled the band's reputation for pushing boundaries.
Amidst the turmoil, the band faced several member departures. Dean and Kent left in the early days, while Gregory himself departed in 1984. Despite these setbacks, Them Swoops continued to release music, with a revolving cast of supporting musicians.
Later Years and Legacy
In the years that followed, Them Swoops' influence continued to be felt. Their music inspired a generation of punk and hardcore bands, and their raw energy and uncompromising attitude became synonymous with the Sunset Strip scene. Despite their turbulent history, the band's legacy as pioneers of the genre remains intact.
Discography
* Too Fast For Love (1979)
* Plastic Surgery Disasters (1980)
* Dig Up the Dead (1981)
* Out of the Darkness (1984)
* Demons (1986)
* The Lost Tapes (1995)
* Live at the Starwood (1995)
Members
* Bryan Gregory - vocals, guitar
* Tommy Dean - bass
* Brad Kent - drums
* Gary Abbott - guitar, vocals
* Steve Martin - bass
* Jeff Dahl - drums