Calvin Party (named after the 16th Century theologian) were formally known as Levellers Five but renamed themselves after another band, The Levellers, found some fame.
The band, who originate from Darwen, Lancashire, England, were long time favourites of John Peel for whom they recorded a total of eight sessions, three as Levellers Five between May 1990 and May 1992 and five as Calvin Party between September 1994 and September 2004. The last session was broadcast just a month before John Peel's death.
Only John Donaldson (writer/guitar/vocals) remains of the original line-up that also included Phil Hayes (guitar), Cameron Donaldson (guitar) Carole Fleck (bass) and Gavan Whelan (drums). Alongside Donaldson in the current line-up are Dave Thom (guitar), Cathy Brooks (bass), Dan Handley (drums) and Kerry Graham (vocals/korg/percussion).
The bands sound is marked by a lo-fi approach and insightful, often humorous lyrics.
Calvin Party have released three albums all on Probe Plus: Life & Other Sex Tragedies (1994), Lies, Lies & Government (1996) and Never As Black (2004). A fourth album, Godard's Girlfriend, is due for release in April 2008, again on Probe Plus. Following 'godards girlfriend' calvin party toured with the wedding present and toured holland and germany as well as supporting the fall.
tamsinA replaced kerry and there is a new single 8 DAYS released 8th december 08. there is a new album out in feb 09 with dates in u.k, europe and the u.s.
check out the calvin party myspace for updates...
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