Emmanuel

In The Beginning

Formed in North Yorkshire, England, in October 1977, Emmanuel rehearsed in an empty cottage at a dales farm before playing their first gig on February 27th, 1978, at the Miners Arms, Greenhow. From humble origins in the wilderness of this former remote dales pub, Emmanuel went on to play colleges and music venues large and small in cities and towns throughout Northern England. Emmanuel’s music gained favorable recognition after entering a national competition sponsored by Melody Maker.

The name "Emmanuel" came from the hymn Emmanuel which they performed as an invigorating, powerful, melodic rock anthem loved by the audience at their live gigs, on the radio and favorite on the album Emmanuel - see RECORDINGS "Emmanuel" 1977 - 1979-. 

Nearly twenty  years on, and retaining their trade mark of lead guitar and synthesizer layers, Emmanuel went to the studio in 1997 and  recorded the  album, ''Entranced''. After promoting the recording they returned to inactive mode for a few years. With other projects outside of the band this is not uncommon, and is probably the key to their longevity.

Since the Millennium, as a three piece, they have engaged in an instrumental approach and  recorded a second album in 2014, entitled "Lost In The Years", which was well received via alternative internet radio stations based in Europe.

Who's Who

Emmanuel were formed by Graham Spence a local Keyboard Player looking for an outlet for his musical talent. He teamed up with 12 String Guitarist / Song Writer Des Pierce and Drummer David Lawson (Dilly). Graham met Lead Guitarist Jon Hall at Cramer Studios. Jon, who was recording with David Hanks at the time was instantly hooked and enlisted Bass Guitarist Tony Martin a friend and work colleague to complete the band.

Transformed

When Dilly decided to leave the band after the second gig we asked Barry Denton if he would join the band. Barry was not only a brilliant drummer but also had a fantastic singing voice. The band was transformed with Barry taking over the lead vocals as well as playing the drums.

What the Paper’s Said

A local newspaper commented - "Emmanuel's music is fantasy-rock, in the same vein as bands like 'Genesis' or 'Yes'. Jon Hall's melodious technique is not unlike that of the former band's ex-guitarist Steve Hackett as well as Camel's Andy Latimer and he rarely plays a lead break, adding to the band's togetherness. Also Graham on keyboards has a style very similar to that of Genesis' Tony Banks, with few organ or moog solos.

 With a proven market for their music in today's rock world, and a burning ambition to record and tour, it is to be hoped a promoter recognises the potential of this imaginative local band."

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© Emmanuel