Coda was Neil's first 'working' band. Initially assembled from the remains of
    DV8, and with a steady set of blues and rock covers plus a few original songs,
    they began playing in pubs and clubs around Bradford, Bingley and Keighley.
    These were halcyon days. A firm learning ground for Neil, not only in
    developing his voice but in building confidence in performing for audiences.
    Dave Turner (guitarist) was keen to promote the band and had some budget
    recording equipment which was used to make the bands (and Neil's) first demo.
    The opening track was an instrumental, which was
    known as 'Fire Brigade' because whilst writing the
    track a fire engine pulled up outside the band's
    rehearsal room. Other songs included 'On the Air
    Tonight' written by Dave and a band song called
    'The Search'
    When bass player Rick Slater left the band after six

    months, the band decided upon a slight change of direction. They agreed that
    in order to secure more bookings, they would play sixties rock covers. Classics
    that their target audience could relate to. This did prove to be a wise move for
    the band who began to perform more often, and were able to play at some of the
    more prestigious live music venues in the area. Perhaps one of the bands
    favourites being 'The Queens Hall' Bradford.



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