Michael Dunford--one of the original members of Renaissance and, together with Betty Newsinger (formerly Betty Thatcher), the driving force of the band....they wrote most of the group's material including the Top Ten hit single "Northern Lights."
Four years ago, Sire Records released a Renaissance compilation entitled Tales of 1001 Nights. This achieved six-figure sales in the USA and Canada despite no promotion or marketing campaign. Other products have been released on the CD format in various territories (most recently Japan) to the same effect.
Michael decided to form another Renaissance, and he and Betty started writing for a new album.
This has now been recorded and released with nine new songs plus a new version of "Northern Lights."
Stephanie Adlington, lead and backing vocals, is a 21 year old American currently at the Royal Academy of Music studying classical voice. She has undoubtedly huge talent, and shines through with her looks, personality, and star quality.
Similarly, Stuart Bradbury on lead guitar is just 19 years old and also has enormous potential.
Dave Dowle on drums has had a long, distinguished career in music playing in a number of top bands, including the rock band Whitesnake.
Phil Mulford on bass guitar is one of London's top session players and has played with numerous artists - a musician in high demand and widely sought after.
Michael Dunford on acoustic guitars.
The lineup is completed by Andy Spillar on keyboards and synthesizer programming. Andy, as well as dealing with the technical side of the recording, produced the album. One of the country's best up and coming producers.
The new album is more accessible and commercial than previous Renaissance albums, and has at least three obvious potential singles: "Quicksilver (also the current choice for the album title)," "Don't Talk," and "Northern Lights."
This, combined with the more familiar Renaissance tracks and musical styles, makes for a varied and unique new album.