1964

Changes

In 1964, still known as Danny Cannon and the Ramrods, the line-up changed when Ken Hooper left the group and Dudley-born Mike Taylor joined as rhythm guitarist. From this time the musical style began to change, concentrating more on close harmony numbers. The songs of Buddy Holly and the Crickets still inspired the lads but now they were able to expand their repertoire to include some sparkling interpretations of Beach Boys and Four Seasons numbers. Mike and Pete were both adept falsetto singers, but Pete had a rich bass voice as well that complimented his dexterity on his adored Fender Jazz bass. Pete took a year out at about this time and was replaced on bass by Brendan Guest. They began to develop their own distinctive style and both Danny and Mike pooled their songwriting talents to produce some interesting sounds. Pete, too, on his return to the group, was an active songwriter.