Max Bacon
Max Bacon is an English rock singer renowned for his powerful, arena-ready vocals, most notably as the lead singer of the short-lived 1980s supergroup GTR.[1] Formed by guitarists Steve Hackett and Steve Howe, GTR released their self-titled debut album in 1986, which achieved gold status in the United States and peaked at number 11 on the Billboard 200, driven by the hit single "When the Heart Rules the Mind" that reached number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100.[2][3] Bacon's career extends beyond GTR, encompassing frontman roles in heavy metal and hard rock bands such as Bronz, Nightwing, Moby Dick, and Phenomena, where he contributed to several albums in the 1980s and 1990s.[4] He has also provided guest vocals for progressive rock artist Mike Oldfield on albums such as Islands (1987) and Earth Moving (1989), and later reconvened with GTR material for his 1996 solo release The Higher You Climb.[5][6] Known for his versatile tenor voice that echoes influences from AOR and prog rock vocalists like Steve Walsh and Dennis DeYoung, Bacon was active in the rock scene through the 2000s.[7][8]Early life
Childhood in Mansfield
Little is known about Max Bacon's early life in Mansfield, Nottinghamshire, England. Reliable sources do not provide details on his childhood or initial exposure to music.Introduction to music
Details on how Max Bacon was introduced to music remain undocumented in available reliable sources.Early career
Moby Dick
Moby Dick was a short-lived heavy metal band formed in 1982 in Northwich, Cheshire, England, operating within the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) scene.[9] The group featured Max Bacon as lead vocalist, alongside Gregg Evans on guitar, Andrew Evans on guitar, Chris Steele on bass, and Gary Steele on drums.[10] Bacon, who had previously gained local experience through earlier musical endeavors, brought a powerful vocal style to the band, marking one of his initial forays into the professional rock circuit.[10] The band's activities were brief but notable, including a performance at the 1982 Wrexham Rock Festival alongside prominent acts such as Motörhead, Twisted Sister, and Raven, which highlighted their place in the burgeoning NWOBHM movement.[10] Moby Dick disbanded in 1983, leaving behind a minimal recorded legacy that reflected the raw energy of the era's underground metal scene.[11] Their sole release was the 7-inch single "Nothing to Fear" b/w "Can't Have My Body Tonight," issued in 1982 on Ebony Records (EBON 5), produced by D. Johnston and featuring lyrics by Bacon on the A-side.[12] The B-side track also appeared on the 1982 compilation album Metallic Storm (Ebony Records), a showcase for emerging NWOBHM talent that included contributions from other regional acts.[10] These recordings captured the band's straightforward heavy metal sound, emphasizing driving riffs and anthemic choruses typical of the genre. No full-length album was ever produced, underscoring the ephemeral nature of Moby Dick's tenure.[9]Nightwing and Bronz
In 1983, Max Bacon joined the British rock band Nightwing as lead vocalist, marking a shift toward a more structured lineup for the group originally formed in 1978 by bassist Gordon Rowley and keyboardist Kenny Newton.[13] Under his tenure, Nightwing recorded and released their third studio album, Stand Up and Be Counted, in 1983 via Gull Records, which adopted a rawer hard rock edge compared to prior progressive influences.[13][14] The album featured contributions from guitarist Alec Johnson, drummer Steve Bartley, and Newton on keyboards, with Bacon's clear tenor vocals elevating tracks like the title song and "Treading Water," the latter issued as a single.[14] Bacon's time with Nightwing proved brief, as he departed shortly after the album's release to front the hard rock band Bronz.[13] Formed in the mid-1970s in Bath, England, amid the New Wave of British Heavy Metal movement, Bronz gained momentum in the early 1980s with Bacon on lead vocals, alongside guitarists Chris Goulstone and Shaun Kirkpatrick, bassist Paul Webb, and drummer Pete Wharton.[15] Their self-titled debut album, Taken by Storm, arrived in 1984 on Bronze Records, delivering aggressive melodic hard rock characterized by Bacon's powerful delivery and keyboard accents from Kirkpatrick.[15][16] Key tracks included the single "Send Down an Angel," backed with "Tiger," which highlighted the band's anthemic style and commercial aspirations within the NWOBHM scene.[16] Despite critical praise for its energy, the album achieved modest commercial success, positioning Bronz as a regional act before lineup changes in the late 1980s.[17]Breakthrough period
Formation of GTR
In late 1984, Yes manager Brian Lane proposed a collaboration between guitarists Steve Hackett, formerly of Genesis, and Steve Howe, recently departed from Asia, during a casual meeting. Both musicians were seeking new creative outlets—Hackett following underwhelming solo releases like Till We Have Faces (1984), and Howe amid tensions in Asia—leading them to form a guitar-focused supergroup initially dubbed GTR, an acronym emphasizing their dual lead guitar approach. The project aimed to blend progressive rock roots with more commercial, radio-friendly structures to appeal to a broader 1980s audience, contrasting the era's synth-heavy trends.[18][19] By early 1985, Hackett and Howe began assembling the lineup, with Hackett suggesting vocalist Max Bacon, whom he had previously worked with in the heavy rock band Nightwing during the late 1970s. Bacon, known for his powerful and versatile voice from stints in bands like Bronz and Nightwing, was brought on to provide a strong, melodic frontman presence capable of handling both rock anthems and ballads, enhancing the band's accessible sound. Bassist Phil Spalding and drummer Jonathan Mover were recruited to complete the core rhythm section, while Asia keyboardist Geoff Downes contributed to production and songwriting, including the eventual hit "The Hunter." This lineup solidified GTR's direction toward polished, guitar-driven hard rock with progressive undertones.[20][21] The band signed with Arista Records under Clive Davis after initial interest from Geffen Records waned, allowing over nine months of studio work starting in mid-1985 at locations like Ridge Farm and Sarm West Studios in London. This period focused on crafting material that showcased Hackett and Howe's intertwined guitar work without overshadowing songcraft, setting the stage for their self-titled debut album's release in April 1986. The formation marked a rare intersection of ex-Genesis and Yes talents, though tensions over creative control and commercial expectations would later contribute to its short lifespan.[21][18]GTR's debut and success
GTR, the supergroup featuring guitarists Steve Hackett and Steve Howe, was formed in 1985 at the initiative of Howe's manager, Brian Lane, with the aim of creating a guitar-oriented rock band.[22][23] The lineup included vocalist Max Bacon, previously of bands like Nightwing and Bronz, bassist Phil Spalding, and drummer Jonathan Mover, blending progressive rock influences with accessible AOR elements.[23][3] Bacon's powerful, melodic vocals provided a grounding presence that complemented the dual-guitar leads, drawing comparisons to singers like Steve Walsh of Kansas.[3][24] The band's self-titled debut album was released in April 1986 through Arista Records, showcasing a polished production by Geoff Downes that emphasized Hackett and Howe's intricate guitar work alongside Bacon's lead vocals.[3][24] The album quickly achieved commercial success, peaking at No. 11 on the Billboard 200 chart and earning gold certification in the United States for sales exceeding 500,000 copies.[22][3][24] Its lead single, "When the Heart Rules the Mind," became GTR's biggest hit, reaching No. 14 on the Billboard Hot 100 and benefiting from heavy MTV video rotation, which helped propel the album's visibility.[22][24] A follow-up single, "The Hunter," also charted in the lower reaches of the Hot 100, further underscoring the band's initial momentum in the American market.[3][24] Despite stronger reception in the US, GTR faced limited promotion in the UK, where the single charted modestly at No. 69, contributing to uneven international success.[22] Bacon's contributions were pivotal to the album's radio-friendly appeal, with his delivery on tracks like the title single infusing emotional depth into the band's bombastic style.[24] The group toured successfully in support of the release, but internal tensions over creative direction—exacerbated by the high commercial stakes—led to its dissolution by 1987, after recording demos for a follow-up that remained unreleased.[3][24] Steve Hackett later reflected that "the price of success was very high," citing financial and managerial issues as key factors in the band's short lifespan.[24]Mid-career endeavors
Involvement with Phenomena
Max Bacon contributed lead vocals to the rock supergroup project Phenomena, a concept band initiated by record producer Tom Galley and his brother, Whitesnake guitarist Mel Galley, aimed at assembling prominent musicians for thematic albums.[25] His involvement was limited to their second album, Phenomena II: Dream Runner, released in 1987 by Ariola Records. On this album, Bacon provided lead vocals for two tracks: "Jukebox" (track 5) and "It Must Be Love" (track 10), alongside contributions from other vocalists including Ray Gillen, Glenn Hughes, and John Wetton.[26][27] Dream Runner featured a lineup of notable rock figures, such as guitarists Kyoji Yamamoto, Mel Galley, Scott Gorham (Thin Lizzy), and bassist Neil Murray (Whitesnake), with the album blending hard rock and AOR elements. Bacon's vocal performances on his tracks added a distinctive melodic flair, aligning with his style from prior work in progressive and hard rock outfits.[26] This collaboration marked one of Bacon's mid-1980s guest appearances in high-profile projects, occurring shortly after GTR's debut and before his solo endeavors, though it did not lead to further involvement with Phenomena.[28]Collaboration with Mike Oldfield
Max Bacon collaborated with progressive rock musician Mike Oldfield on two albums released in the late 1980s, contributing vocals that added a rock-oriented edge to Oldfield's eclectic sound. Their partnership began with Oldfield's 1987 album Islands, where Bacon provided lead vocals on the track "Magic Touch" specifically for the U.S. release, differing from the European version featuring Jim Price.[29] This version of "Magic Touch," co-produced by Oldfield and Geoff Downes, became a minor hit in the U.S., highlighting Bacon's powerful, arena-rock style delivery. Additionally, Bacon contributed backing vocals to the album's title track "Islands," performed by Bonnie Tyler, enhancing the layered harmonies.[30] The collaboration continued on Oldfield's 1989 album Earth Moving, where Bacon delivered lead vocals on "Hostage," a track characterized by its upbeat, synth-driven arrangement and themes of emotional captivity. He also provided vocals on the title track "Earth Moving," sharing duties with Nikki "B" Bentley, which served as an energetic closer with driving rhythms and optimistic lyrics about personal transformation. In some editions, Bacon's contributions extended to additional vocals on "Bridge to Paradise," underscoring his role in bolstering the album's vocal diversity alongside artists like Adrian Belew and Maggie Reilly.[31][32] These performances aligned with Earth Moving's pop-rock direction, produced by Oldfield at his Roughwood Croft studio in England, and marked Bacon's final direct involvement with the composer.[33]Solo career
The Higher You Climb
The Higher You Climb is the debut solo album by English singer Max Bacon, released in 1995 on the Now & Then label (catalogue number NTHEN23).[34] The album compiles previously unreleased demo recordings from Bacon's time with GTR and related projects, alongside two live tracks from the band's 1986 tour.[35] Tracks 1 and 2 originated as demos for the band Asia, later re-recorded with vocalist John Payne for that group's Archiva compilations, while tracks 9 and 10 were early demos intended for a proposed follow-up to GTR's self-titled debut.[35] The live recordings feature covers of Genesis's "I Know What I Like (In Your Wardrobe)" and Yes's "Roundabout," performed during GTR concerts.[35] Bacon handles all lead vocals on the album, supported by a roster of prominent progressive and hard rock musicians. Keyboards are provided by Matt Clifford, Geoff Downes (Asia, Yes), and John Young, with Downes notably contributing to the Asia-derived tracks. Drums are played by Mike Sturgis on tracks 1 and 2, Nigel Glockler (Saxon) on tracks 3 through 10, and Jonathan Mover on the live recordings. Guitars feature Steve Howe (Yes, Asia), Steve Hackett (Genesis), and Scott Gorham (Thin Lizzy), while Phil Spalding supplies bass throughout.[35] The full track listing includes: 1. "The Higher You Climb" (3:32), 2. "Boys from Diamond City" (5:34), 3. "Walk Away" (4:04), 4. "All Grown Up" (4:56), 5. "When I Was Young" (3:53), 6. "Hold Him Closer" (4:20), 7. "Desperate Times" (4:06), 8. "Love Comes Down" (4:05), 9. "Hungry Warrior" (4:04), 10. "No One Else to Blame" (4:43), 11. "I Know What I Like (Live)" (4:14), and 12. "Roundabout (Live)" (8:41).[35][34] The album's style blends AOR and progressive rock elements, reflecting Bacon's collaborations with ex-Yes and Asia members, as heard in the title track's sweeping keyboards reminiscent of Downes's work.[35] Originally issued as a limited-edition CD in the UK, it has since gone out of print, with no official reissues announced.[35] Several tracks, including the title song, later appeared on Bacon's 2002 follow-up solo album From the Banks of the River Irwell.[36]From the Banks of the River Irwell
From the Banks of the River Irwell is the second solo album by English rock singer Max Bacon, released in 2002 on the Blueprint label (BP353CD).[36] The album spans the adult-oriented rock (AOR) genre and compiles material from various stages of Bacon's career dating back to 1989, including previously unreleased tracks and re-recordings.[37] It features 16 tracks with a total runtime of approximately 70 minutes, emphasizing keyboard-driven melodies and melodic rock elements that appeal to fans of bands like Asia.[38][37] The first five tracks—"Someday," "Tears in My Eyes," "Who Can Stop the Rain," "The Higher You Climb," and "Boys from the Diamond City"—were written and recorded with contributions from prominent session musicians, including Geoff Downes on keyboards (from Asia and Yes), Scott Gorham on guitar (from Thin Lizzy), Michael Sturgis on drums (from 21 Guns, A-ha, and Asia), and Phil Spalding on bass (from GTR and ELO).[37] Notably, "Boys from the Diamond City" had previously appeared on Asia's 1996 compilation album Archiva 1 during John Payne's tenure with the band.[37] These songs showcase Bacon's vocal style over polished AOR arrangements, with Downes' keyboard work providing a symphonic prog-rock influence.[37] Subsequent tracks incorporate guest appearances from other notable artists. Track 10, "Earth Moving," features Mike Oldfield on guitar and keyboards; this version with Bacon's vocals is considered superior to the original 12-inch single release.[36][37] The closing track, "Breakout," includes Paul Webb on bass and Chris Gouldstone on guitar and keyboards, delivering the album's heaviest moment with a Brit-rock edge reminiscent of the band Shy.[36][37] The remaining songs, such as "Hold Me Close," "Fire in Your Eyes," "Carrie," "Everybody Needs Somebody," "Sense of Rhythm," "Take No Prisoners," "Moon Under the Water," "Get It Right This Time," and "You're in My Heart," primarily feature local musicians from the Cheshire area, focusing on straightforward melodic rock and keyboard-led rockers.[36][37] Overall, the album highlights Bacon's versatility as a vocalist and drummer, blending his collaborative history with established rock figures into a cohesive AOR collection.[37]Later career
Return to Bronz
In the late 2000s, Bronz released their long-shelved second album, Carried by the Storm, originally recorded in the mid-1980s, which reignited interest in the band and prompted a reunion with original vocalist Max Bacon.[39] This project featured a reformed lineup including guitarist Shaun Kirkpatrick, but Bacon's involvement came specifically for live performances, marking his return to the group after over two decades.[39] The reunion culminated in a notable appearance at the Hard Rock Hell V festival in Prestatyn, Wales, on December 3, 2011. Bacon fronted the band alongside Kirkpatrick and Michael O'Donoghue on guitars, Paul Webb on bass, and Clive Edwards on drums, delivering a set that revisited classics from their 1984 debut Taken by Storm.[40][41] Festival reviews highlighted Bacon's commanding stage presence and the nostalgic energy of the performance, which drew on the band's New Wave of British Heavy Metal roots to enthusiastic crowds.[41] This one-off return underscored Bacon's enduring ties to Bronz, though no further studio recordings or tours with the band followed, especially after Kirkpatrick's death in 2013.[39]Work with Steve Howe
In 1999, Max Bacon reunited professionally with Steve Howe, his former bandmate from GTR, for Howe's solo album Portraits of Bob Dylan. Bacon contributed lead vocals to the track "Going, Going, Gone," an instrumental reinterpretation of Bob Dylan's 1974 song from the album Planet Waves.[42] This collaboration featured Howe on guitar and a range of instruments, with additional contributions from musicians including Geoff Downes on keyboards and Howe's son Dylan Howe on drums, blending progressive rock elements with Dylan's folk-rock influences.[42] The track exemplified Bacon's versatile tenor voice, adapting to a more subdued, atmospheric arrangement that contrasted with the arena-rock style of their earlier work together. Released via Eagle Records, Portraits of Bob Dylan marked one of Bacon's notable appearances in the late 1990s, underscoring his enduring connections within the progressive and classic rock scenes.[43] No further joint projects between Bacon and Howe have been documented beyond this recording.[44]Personal life
Television appearance on New Faces
In 1988, following the dissolution of the supergroup GTR, Max Bacon competed as a solo artist on the revived edition of the British talent competition New Faces, hosted by Marti Caine with judges including Chris Tarrant and Nina Myskow.[45] The show, originally launched in 1973, had been rebooted in 1986 to feature emerging performers across various genres, airing on ITV and drawing large audiences for its mix of amateur and semi-professional acts. Bacon's participation represented a deliberate attempt to revive his singing career independently after his vocal contributions to GTR's self-titled album and its top-40 single "When the Heart Rules the Mind."[46] During his audition and subsequent rounds, Bacon delivered a powerful rendition of "When the Heart Rules the Mind," the 1986 GTR track he had originally fronted, backed by a simple arrangement that highlighted his soaring, emotive tenor voice.[47] The performance, captured in the semi-final episode aired on November 26, 1988, earned immediate applause from the studio audience and praise from host Marti Caine, who described him as an "extremely talented singer" with a "superb voice" and "terrific look."[47] Judges offered mixed but constructive feedback: Mickie Most commended his vocal strength and professionalism but critiqued the song's generic rock-pop styling as needing sharper production, while Chris Tarrant hailed him as the standout act of the night with star potential.[48] Nina Myskow, however, noted a disconnect between his robust delivery and the song's appeal, suggesting it lacked broader commercial allure.[48] Bacon advanced through the audience-voted heats to reach the grand final on December 3, 1988, competing against acts such as comedian Stevie Riks and novelty group The Mad Hatters before an estimated 13.6 million viewers in the program's series finale.[49] Though he did not claim the top prize, the exposure underscored his versatility beyond progressive rock, bridging his session work with artists like Mike Oldfield.[50] This television outing preceded his solo album The Higher You Climb (1995).[34]Relocation and business ventures
After leaving his solo recording career in the mid-1990s, Max Bacon relocated to Rudheath, Cheshire, where he became the landlord of the Farmers Arms pub on Middlewich Road.[51] He managed the establishment for about three and a half years, starting around 1998, transforming it into a community hub known for its friendly atmosphere and emphasis on customer enjoyment.[51] Bacon's business ventures at the pub included organizing live music events to draw crowds and foster a lively environment. In August 2001, he hosted a mini music festival featuring nine local bands, such as Tidy, Mozis, and Goteki 45, which attracted hundreds of attendees despite rainy weather and raised £300 for Hope House Children’s Hospice.[52] He closed the event with performances by his own group, the Max Bacon Band, playing classic rock tracks to enthusiastic crowds.[52] However, Bacon's tenure ended amid conflicts with Vale Royal Borough Council over event regulations. The council imposed strict conditions on his occasional entertainment license for the 2001 festival, including a 9:30 p.m. music curfew and requirements to dismantle a marquee 24 hours in advance, citing noise complaints and planning issues.[53] Bacon breached these rules due to poor weather and safety concerns, leading to a guilty plea at Northwich Magistrates Court, where he was fined £800 plus £400 in costs.[51] He cited the council's restrictions and lack of support—despite community backing via a 427-signature petition—as the "final straw," prompting his departure from the pub later that year.[53]Discography
Solo albums
Max Bacon released two solo albums during his career, both characterized by his distinctive vocal style in the AOR and arena rock genres. These works primarily compile demo recordings, unreleased sessions, and new material from various stages of his musical journey, showcasing his versatility as a singer beyond his band contributions. His debut solo effort, The Higher You Climb, was issued in 1995 by the independent label Now & Then in the UK. This album features 12 tracks, including collaborations such as the first five songs with keyboardist Geoff Downes, reflecting Bacon's post-GTR activities and earlier demos from 1989 onward. Notable inclusions are "The Higher You Climb," "Boys from Diamond City," and "Walk Away," blending melodic rock with personal lyrical themes. The release was limited in distribution, emphasizing Bacon's niche appeal in the progressive and AOR scenes.[34][54][37] In 2002, Bacon followed with From the Banks of the River Irwell on Blueprint Records, a more expansive 16-track collection spanning 70 minutes. Drawing inspiration from his Manchester roots—referencing the River Irwell—the album highlights original compositions like "Someday," "Tears in My Eyes," and "Fire in Your Eyes," which demonstrate his energetic delivery and emotional range. Produced with a focus on polished rock arrangements, it received positive acclaim for its cohesive songwriting and Bacon's commanding presence, marking a fuller realization of his solo vision.[36][38][55][56]| Album Title | Release Year | Label | Format | Tracks |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Higher You Climb | 1995 | Now & Then | CD | 12 |
| From the Banks of the River Irwell | 2002 | Blueprint | CD | 16 |