Attack, The

This mid-60s Mod-influenced UK group (formerly known as The Soul System) were signed to Don Arden’s agency, Galaxy Entertainments, in the hope of emulating other mod protégés The Small Faces. Their debut release for Decca was a version of The Standells‘ Try It.

The Attack released further singles, including Colour Of My Mind and Neville Thumbcatch on Decca, but they were all unremarkable slices of psych-pop.

The band also became embroiled in a battle with Jeff Beck after recording a cover version of his Hi-Ho Silver Lining in 1967.

Their line-up was ever-changing, and at one time included future Nice drummer Brian ‘Blinky’ Davidson and future Atomic Rooster member John Cann.

An album, Roman Gods Of War, was recorded but never released.

The band finally folded in 1968 with guitarist David O’List going on to greater things with The Nice. Alan Whitehead joined Marmalade.

A posthumous compilation album, Magic In The Air, was eventually released. Tracks like Magic In The Air, Strange House, Freedom For You and Colour Of My Mind all deserve their high place in British freakbeat/psych history.

Perhaps with a more stable line-up, The Attack would have reached farther than they did.

Richard Sherman 
Vocals
David O’List 
Guitar
Gerry Henderson 
Bass
Alan Whitehead 
Drums
Geoff Richardson
Guitar
John DuCann
Guitar
George Watt
Organ
Chris Allen
Drums
Kenny Arnold
Bass
Jim Avery
Bass
Roger Deane
Bass
Peter ‘Barney’ Barnfield
Drums
Keith Hodge
Drums