Andy Kanavan

Andy Kanavan

Andy Kanavan was an English classical musician and multi-instrumentalist. He was best known for his work with post-punk bands Level 9, Foreign Playground and German band Styffe. Kanavan also played briefly with Dire Straits.^[1] He was recognized as a very capable drummer, as showcased in concerts such as Larks in the Park. He was also a founding member of Mellow Yellow.^[2]

A session musician, Kanavan drummed for Decca, Polydor and indie label Sabre and became the drummer for the band Dream Cast on their ill fated European tour, in which Dave Elliott (guitar), Chris Nichols (keyboards) and Helen Raven (vocals) died in a horrific traffic accident.

Born in Accrington, the former Royal Marine built a reputation for his aggressive and rhythmic style of drumming. His aggression on stage often followed him off stage.

As a rock and soul drummer for bands both in Europe and the UK, Kanavan was never short of work regardless of his on and off stage antics.

Following the death of his wife on August 11, 1981, Blue Haze vocalist Suzy Green, his love of music changed to hate. He would fail to show at concerts and was soon dropped by mainstream record labels and bands.

Following his brief spell of notoriety, Kanavan stepped away from the limelight in the early 1980s and began a new life as a music tutor in the South of England.

Band history

Foreign Playground was founded by Kanavan and Hamilton and although found moderate success with the single "Would You" in Japan, the song failed to enter the UK charts. Panned by critics, the band released "Love in the Woods" which saw the band's popularity rise in Germany and Italy.

In 1982, following the death of his wife, Kanavan had all but turned his back on the music industry. His clashes with other band members sealed the fate of the band. In 1983, the band parted company.

References

• Kanavan, Andy. Zoo Records
• a b c managing ed.: David Roberts (2006). British Hit Singles & Albums (19th ed.). HIT Entertainment. ISBN 1-90499-410-5.