Lead singer of cult Belfast rock band reflects on career as new album approaches
Following a hiatus of nearly thirty years, Silent Running, the iconic Belfast rock band, reunited in 2019. This reunion led to the creation of their latest album, “Follow the Light.” Now, with the support of the Arts Council, band members Peter Gamble, Tony Scott, Richard Collett, Gary Kirby, and Stevie Prosser are gearing up for the release of their upcoming album, “Northstar,” scheduled to hit the shelves on November 7th.
In anticipation of their performance at Voodoo in Belfast on October 24th, lead vocalist Peter reflected on the band’s journey. He reminisced about the early days when the band’s formation was an organic process. Peter and bassist Richard, who were neighbors, shared a love for music even at a young age. Encouraged by his parents, Peter acquired a guitar, which kickstarted their musical journey. Tony, a talented guitarist, later joined the duo, inviting Peter to be a part of their band. This marked the beginning of their musical exploration, starting with cover songs and eventually transitioning to penning their own tracks.
Their breakthrough came when Radio One DJ Peter Powell stumbled upon one of their songs, “All the King’s Men,” and offered them a session on his show. This pivotal moment opened doors for the band, leading to a management deal and a record contract. Subsequently, Silent Running embarked on tours with renowned artists such as Robert Palmer, Talk Talk, Stevie Van Zandt, and Simple Minds. These experiences not only provided exposure but also invaluable lessons in the music industry.
One of the band’s standout experiences was a nine-night stint at the Hammersmith Odeon with Simple Minds, which significantly boosted their presence in the UK. Building on this momentum, Silent Running expanded their reach across Europe and America, solidifying their reputation and creating lasting memories. Despite the challenges and financial constraints of touring, the band members treasured the wealth of experience gained during this period.
As the band gears up for the release of their new album, “Northstar,” they reflect on their remarkable journey filled with highs and lows. Through their music and performances, Silent Running has left an indelible mark on the music scene, captivating audiences globally. With the upcoming album, the band is poised to reignite their passion for music and continue their legacy as one of Belfast’s most iconic rock bands.