White Spirit

White Spirit

White Spirit was a British heavy metal band formed in Hartlepool. The group is notable for featuring Janick Gers, who would later achieve widespread fame as a guitarist for Iron Maiden. Other members of the band included Bruce Ruff on vocals, Malcolm Pearson on keyboards, Phil Brady on bass, and Graeme Crallan on drums. Crallan also performed with the band Tank.

NWOBHM Pioneers

As part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) movement, White Spirit released their debut 7-inch single, "Backs to the Grind," on the independent label Neat Records. The single's B-side was the track "Cheetah."

Debut Album and Legacy

The band subsequently signed with MCA Records, releasing their self-titled debut album, White Spirit, in 1980. This marked their only album release. One of their songs, "High Upon High," was also featured on the compilation album Metal for Muthas Volume II: Cut Loud.