Xoom Klub
Mike B :(1979- ) I have had a varied musical career having been in bands since the late seventies, starting off with Guillotine, a psuedo punk band, and further on with The Circuits, Hard Times, Smile On Impact, and The Scream . Today, I'm a part time solo artist recording from my home studio in Hong Kong, which I caringly call 'the cupboard'. I also use the generic name 'Xoom Klub' for anything that detracts from my usual style which gives me the option to experiment with my music.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
Mike B started life in Northampton. He has been in several bands:
Guillotine :(1977 -1979) A punk band founded in Northampton, England by Mike B and Eddie Branch. The line up was, Simon 'Grizzly' Bordman (drums), Mike B (vocals), Eddie Branch (bass), Steven 'Oz' Austin (guitar). Guillotine played most of the UK, and although we never headlined a major gig, we did support: The Bishops, The Dead Kennedys, Neon, Phallix, and Gary Glitter.
The Circuits :(1979-1980) The name suggests a techno style, but it wasn't. The style was a cross between pop and punk with harmonies thrown in. As far as I know there are not photographs left in existence. The line up was: Mike B (vocals), Steve Mathews (guitar), Simon Bordman (drums), Vince Baxter (bass).
Smile On Impact :(1982-1983) A funk/rock style of music playing original songs composed by 'Brown & Austin'. The line up, was: Craig 'Digger' Digby (drums), Mark (keyboards), Graham 'Do nut' (bass), Stephen 'Oz' Austin (lead guitar), Mike B (vocals & rhythm guitar)
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
Mike B loves to play live and has done some gigs in Taipei & Kaohsiung since being in Taiwan
Your musical influences
Bowie, Beatles, Lou Reed, T Rex, The Stranglers, Cold Play, Fuel, The Sex Pistols, The Clash
What equipment do you use?
I have five guitars I use...My favourite is an Epiphone Semi Acoustic with Gibson pickups
