Talk Talk

The band were introduced to each other by Hollis' older brother, Ed, a DJ and producer who had previously helped Hollis with his first band, The Reaction. Quickly signed to EMI, the quartet were encouraged to pursue their new romantic leanings, opening Duran Duran's 1982 tour. Some success followed, but a year later keyboard-cum-synth player Brenner left the group, heralding the arrival of unofficial fourth member Tim Friese-Green who worked alongside Hollis to help steer the band towards his original vision. Their second album It's My Life was a million miles from the first and became a hit on both sides of the Atlantic, spurring them on to greater success with The Colour Of Spring, which fast became a best-seller. There was, however, trouble in paradise as wrangling began with EMI - who were pushing for the fourth LP, which finally arrived after more than 12 torturous months in the studio. Although Spirit Of Eden impressed music critics, it couldn't be hailed a commercial success and after more trouble, EMI and Talk Talk parted ways. Guitarist Paul Webb followed suit and their final endeavour, Laughing Stock, was collated by Hollis, Friese-Green and a selection of session players before the group disbanded altogether.