Glenn Webster

FreeZone: Band Biography

A Chronicle of Formation, Evolution

and Early Success.​

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Formation and Early Days

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FreeZone emerged on the music scene in early 1993, the brainchild of Simon Dust (lead vocals and bass guitar) and Pete Murray (lead guitarist). Their previous venture, Sudden Impact, dissolved following musical differences, but Simon and Pete’s creative partnership endured. With a substantial backlog of material, they pressed ahead, recruiting session drummer Pat to record a three-track studio demo. The positive reception of this demo encouraged Simon to pursue the creation of a new band, laying the foundation for FreeZone.

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Initial Line-Up and Early Changes

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The search for band members led to numerous meetings and rehearsals, eventually welcoming Liam on bass and "Roland" a drum machine, as a replacement for Pat, whose session work prevented him from committing further to the band. The group wrote three more songs, but Roland soon stepped down, prompting the arrival of Keith Pavett, who answered a recruitment advert to become the new drummer. Over the next six months, the band honed their sound, ultimately recognising the need to add an extra layer to their musical arrangements.

 

Expanding the Sound

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The band’s evolution continued with the addition of Glenn Webster, who joined as the keyboard player following a successful audition. Glenn spent three months adapting to FreeZone's style during intensive rehearsals, as the band geared up to record their debut album, a crucial step in their artistic journey.

 

Recording the Debut Album - Freezone

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FreeZone recorded, engineered, and produced their first album "Freezone" at Regent/Cazimi Studios in Leytonstone, with Charlie overseeing the production. The recording took place in early December 1993 and wrapped up in just over two weeks. However, following the completion of his bass tracks, Liam decided to leave the group. Despite this setback, the band completed the album and began the search for a new bassist.

 

New Bass Player and Final Line-Up

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Glenn Webster reached out to his neighbour, Steve Jacob, who had recently relocated to the area. After a chance encounter at a Christmas party where they discussed music and the band, Steve, a seasoned bass player, was invited to a rehearsal. His successful audition and seamless integration with the group secured his place as FreeZone’s new bassist, finalising the five-piece line-up.

 

Promotional Activities and Future Plans

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The start of 1994 marked a whirlwind of activity for FreeZone. They promoted their eponymous debut album with an energetic photo shoot, produced and distributed branded merchandise,  appeared for interviews on "Preview," and filmed a promotional music video for their song "Plastic." The band threw themselves into rehearsals to prepare for their upcoming gigs, all the while developing new material for their second album, signaling their ambition and commitment to continued growth.                                                                               Glenn Webster