Darando

Darando have reformed in February 2010 almost 3 years after they disbanded in June 2007. The story so far: Before Darando Paul was a successful session musician who toured the world with the original Beatles drummer Pete Best and 'The Pete Best Band'. Having a natural talent for the guitar Paul was always writing and producing his own material and when, in 1998, Paul began forming a band, the beginning of the birth of Darando began. With friend and former drum technician / lead roadie of the Pete Best Band, George Payne, was an obvious choice to play drums as George was an experienced, passionate drummer with former Liverpool band ‘Out There’ during times when not on tour he was an ideal candidate given especially because of his style and sound. Along with former Pete Best bassist Neil recruited to play bass the birth of, what would be, Darando was forming and 'Moses' began. Vocals for this new band were provided by Anthony Woods who was a long term friend of drummer George. Anthony had himself had various success with previous bands such as Likewise and Protean to name but two with the later having released a debut EP in, what was, Virgin megastore in Liverpool City centre accompanied with a live set in store, filmed by local television channel Liverpool1. The EP sold out during the set and success appeared looming. After managerial changes, band and musical differences Anthony parted company before working with other bands for short periods. After recording an EP and performing across the UK as Moses there was wide interest being shown in the band and further recording success seemed imminent yet the departure of bassist Neil brought those proceedings to halt. Out of the ashes of Moses, Darando was born with former guitar technician to Liverpool band Space, Jeff Jones, adding a new dimension to the music and sound. Jeff had the personallity, passion and also the style that could add weight to the sound Darando were looking for A rapid rise in popularity and attention ensued, yet again the progress towards success was halted due to personal situations and the band going their separate ways. During the 3 years that Darando spent apart lead guitarist Paul Holligan joined forces with old school friend & former lead singer of Soul / Funk / Rock band 'Real Pulse' Lee Birchall to perform and record with 'Blakeburn'. This two piece outfit recorded original material in Parr Street Studios, Liverpool which resulted in an album of considerable substance that made waves in the Acoustic / Alternative / Folk circles. Anthony reverted to a spell back with former musicians from previous bands but this period was not long lasting and, it seemed, all parties were to continue their separate ways. In February 2010 however thing began to change. Old friendships began again and the draw of playing and recording together again was too great pull to resist. Things were going to happen again… With Darando reforming Lee of Blakeburn joined to provide additional Vocals ,Guitars, Keyboards, Percussion and Harmonica which has enriched the ‘Darando sound’ to greater levels. Having rehearsed tirelessly for their return performance at the Zanzibar, Liverpool on 09 April 2010, there was huge anticipation of what would be delivered but nothing could prepare for what turned out to be their best performance of old and new songs to date. The feedback and comments were and have been since overwhelming and with the band due to record in Parr Street Studios on 17 April and with a trip to Play Dublin in May on the horizon, Darando have returned better than ever… watch this space / page for further updated photo’s, gig information and recordings. Many thanks for all your support. Darando