Warhorse was formed in 1969 by original Deep Purple bassist Nick Simper who had been dismissed from the band prior to their transformation into a heavy rock tour de force with the recruitment of singer Ian Gillan and bassist Roger Glover. Warhorse adopted some of the traits of Deep Purple, also taking a hard rock direction.
Simper gathered together vocalist Ashley Holt, guitarist Ged Peck, keyboard player Frank Wilson and drummer Mac Poole.
They signed to Vertigo in 1970, releasing their self-titled debut album later that year.
Although failing to attract attention in Britain, the album did achieve some success in Germany, where the band secured television appearances and worked the live circuit.
Their continental success led to the recording of a second album, Red Sea, in 1972 – a more guitar-based album which featured the talents of Peter Parker, who had by now replaced Ged Peck. Once more the band scored a European success but failed to make any significant impact in the UK.
Focusing on Europe and the USA, Warhorse continued to work hard on the live circuit until they eventually disbanded at the end of 1973.
Nick Simper later worked with the band Fandango, while Ashley Holt worked as vocalist on keyboard-wizard Rick Wakeman‘s solo albums and subsequent live tours.
Ashley Holt
Vocals
Nick Simper
Bass
Frank Wilson
Keyboards
Ged Peck
Guitar
Mac Poole
Drums
Peter Parker
Guitar
