Formed 1988, U.S.A.
Albums:
1991
Saigon Kick
1992
The Lizard
1993
Water
1995
Devil In The Details
1998
Greatest Mrs.: The Best Of Saigon Kick
1998
Moments From The Fringe
1999
Bastards
2000
Greatest Hits Live
History:
A harmonic hard rock band, Saigon Kick at times crossed over into alternative
without alienating their rock fans. The group considered themselves a thinking-man's
band with intelligent and thought provoking lyrics.
Formed in Miami, Florida by Matt Kramer (vocals), Jason Bieler
(guitar), Tom DeFile (bass) and Phil Varone (drums), the band managed to
build up a solid following in their native Florida and eventually got signed to
Atlantic records. It took a mere eleven days to record the debut album, and although
it got rave reviews from critics, went mostly unnoticed by the record buying public.
The band hit it big with The Lizard and its #12 charting ballad
"Love Is On The Way". The success of the ballad was a double-edged sword, it
gave the band access to a huge new fan base, but several people grouped the band in
with the other one hit wonders of the era. Shortly after
the band's success DeFile left the band and was replaced by Chris McLernon.
Prior to the recording of Water, Kramer also left the band and Bieler
took over on vocals. The album was a commercial disappointment in America, but the band
continued to have a loyal following overseas. Two more studio albums were recorded
before the band decided to call it a day.
Bieler went on to form Super Transatlantic, and surprisingly
the original Saigon Kick minus Bieler rejoined with Jeff Blando
on guitar for some live shows. Varone also surfaced as the drummer for Skid Row
during their 2003 comeback while Kramer pursues a solo career. The group
continues to tour sporadically to this very day.
Links:
The Official Matt Kramer Page
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