FANTOMS, THE

Guitar, Bass: Tony Balmforth

Guitar: Paul Maloney (2)Brian Godfrey

Drums: Rick Balmforth

Tony started the band when he was at CNS grammar school in Eaton Road. Then it comprised me, Rick and a schoolfriend, Paul Moloney, whose dad was in the RAF at Horsham St Faith (before it was Norwich Airport). When he was posted, Paul had to leave and we advertised in the EDP for a rhythm guitarist. Brian turned up to 'audition' guitar and amp in hand! We then practised in readiness for our debut gig at Ranworth Country Club on 31st December 1963. Our speciality was in playing Shadows music we even went as far as buying most of the same equipment.

From there we obtained a residency at the Washington Hotel and Casino doing two weekend spots until its closure before becoming the Club 400. We also used to have regular residencies around the city, places like The Boar’s Head in St Stephens Street, various social clubs like The Conservative Club at Lakenham and Ailwyn Hall. Shortly after this [date required] we expanded to four with Alan Perry a very good singer, as our front vocalist. We renamed the band The Tony Miller Four at this stage. [submitted by Tony Balmforth]

The group entered the Norwich Mercury beat contest in 1965 playing their audition in round two at the Gala on the 11th May, but did not make the final 8.

Mediography: ‘Top group now takes £150’ NMJ 15/4/65[ ]        

<> The Tony Miller Four