Del Amitri

Del Amitri

Del Amitri is a guitar-driven pop rock band formed in Glasgow, Scotland, in 1980. They gained international recognition for their 1995 melodic rock hit "Roll to Me." The band's origins trace back to their teenage years when Justin Currie (bass and vocals), James Scobbie (guitar and vocals), and Donald Bentley (guitar) formed a group at school, seeking an alternative to the prevailing rock scene. The band's name was intentionally chosen for its lack of meaning, aiming for a sound that was distinctive yet unobtrusive. Initially, Del Amitri maintained a low profile, keeping their musical pursuits secret from their schoolmates.

Early rehearsals took place in Justin Currie's parents' home before the band found a clandestine rehearsal space behind storage cartons in the basement of the Glasgow Art Centre. Later, they secured an official room at the Art Centre, complete with a cupboard for their equipment. Coincidentally, the band Aztec Camera, who would later achieve significant success, rehearsed in the adjacent room. It was during this period that Paul Tyagi joined as the band's first drummer. Their debut recording, "What She Calls It," appeared as the B-side of a flexi-disc distributed with the *Stand and Deliver* fanzine, with the A-side featuring the future band The Bluebells. Lacking formal music training, early Del Amitri songs were arranged and recalled through sections named after their musical influences, which included artists like Genesis, Captain Beefheart, and Orange Juice.

In 1982, guitarists Bentley and Scobbie departed to attend university, leaving the band in a state of uncertainty. Justin Currie placed an advertisement in a music store window seeking new members. This led to the formation of a new lineup featuring Currie (bass and vocals), Iain Harvie (lead guitar), Bryan Tolland (guitar), and Paul Tyagi (drums). Their first non-flexi single was "Crows in the Wheatfield," featuring cover art by Laura Michael. Following the release of their debut album, Tyagi left the band to pursue a successful career as a photographer. Justin Currie and Iain Harvie remained the sole constant members throughout Del Amitri's history and were the principal songwriters.

Guitarist Jon McLoughlin, who recorded and toured with the band during the 'Some Other Suckers Parade' era, passed away in March 2005 from complications related to diabetes. He was 42 years old.