Flash

Flash was formed in London in 1971 when ex-Peter Bardens Camel singer, Colin Carter, met ex-Yes guitarist, Peter Banks, and soon after co-wrote the Flash hit, "Small beginnings" (#28 on Billboard). Ray Bennett, who had known Banks since early Yes days, heard they were forming a band via his old friend and former bandmate, Yes drummer, Bill Bruford, and was quickly recruited on bass. Flash drummer, Mike Hough was found later after an advertisement was placed in the London weekly music paper, The Melody Maker. Tony Kaye, the first ex-Yes keyboard player, was a session player on their first album and not a permanent band member, as is often reported.   They released three albums with a sound much like early YES. The first FLASH album, a self-titled one, is a classic piece of 70s style prog rock, featuring long compositions, thick bass, twisty guitar, keyboard flash (hmmmmm), and complex YES-like arrangements."In The Can", released the same year, revolves around BANKS' guitar with a more dominant guitar sound. "Out Of Our Hands" is the last FLASH studio album and least good in comparison to its predecessors. There is also a live FLASH album called "Psychosync", that makes a nice addition to the collection. Though their three albums are still on the market after numerous reissues (most recently in '09), they became equally noted and remembered for their phenomenal, high-energy live shows.    After two and a half years of successful touring, Flash disbanded. All four members later reunited in various combinations during the 70's to early 80's and some of the recorded output appears on Ray Bennett's 2001 archive CD "Angels & Ghosts". By 1982 the Flash members went their separate ways.   Late in 2009 Flash reunited. Although initially interested, after talks and lengthy consideration Banks and Hough were unable to commit. The new line-up will feature Flash's songwriters and original members, Colin CARTER and Ray BENNETT sharing lead vocals, with BENNETT moving from bass to lead guitar. New members are Mark PARDY replacing ex-drummer Mike HOUGH, Rick DAUGHERTY on keyboards and Wayne CARVER on bass.