In late 1971, a Melody Maker article inspired the formation of Flash, a collaboration between Peter Banks, ex-Yes guitarist, and Colin Carter, previously of Mushroom. The duo’s chemistry sparked on their first track, “Small Beginnings,” leading to the band’s formation. Banks, reminiscing about their sound, said, “Of course, we did [sound like Yes]. I was one of the founding members.” Their lineup was completed by bassist Ray Bennett and drummer Mike Hough, creating a potent musical force.
Peter Banks’ decision to lead without a keyboardist, focusing on his guitar, set Flash apart. Tony Kaye, formerly of Yes, played keyboards on the debut album sessions at De Lane Lea; asked to join the band, he declined, and Flash toured as a four-piece. Their debut self-titled album resonated in the USA, with Bennett noting, “We had a brand new hit single and a hit album, and they were going up the [US] charts as we arrived in the summer of ‘72.” Carter adds “That was the key that opened the door. That was it. That’s what got us [in] America.” Their innovative style blended fast-paced rhythms with complex compositions.
Touring the US and the world, Flash shared stages with renowned bands, gaining a dedicated following. Despite their burgeoning fame, mainstream success eluded them, their style perhaps too progressive for the era. Internal dynamics also posed challenges, with band members navigating the complexities of their newfound fame and creative differences.
They rapidly produced three albums within two years, but by November 1973, the stress of touring and internal conflicts led to the band’s disbanding. Banks, reflecting on this period, admitted, “I was having a nervous breakdown… We sort of flew apart for all the wrong reasons.” The breakup marked the end of a brief yet impactful chapter in progressive rock. However, their paths occasionally crossed in various collaborations, keeping the spirit of the band alive.
Original line-up
Peter Banks | Colin Carter | Ray Bennett | Mike Hough
DISCOGRAPHY
CHRONOLOGY
The gig-by-gig chronology is divided by year.
- 1971–72: the formation of the band, the recording of the debut album at DeLane Lea Studios, and the 1972 tours.
- 1973–74: the 1973 tours, the break-up after the final show in November 1973, and the aftermath in 1974.
PHOTO GALLERY
