Rigsby

Rigsby is a group formed in 1996 from former members of The Rinky Dink Panthers and Vision Thing. It starts out playing local gigs with a mixture of cover versions and a small number of original songs, and its early activity centres on the local live circuit.

Early releases and local support

After winning a local battle of the bands competition, the prize is a recording session that becomes the group’s first four-track release. This is recorded live at the Richmond Hall in Carlisle, now known as the Brickyard. Local label KDs backs the release of the EP, and Newcastle-based Generator also supports the band with promotion and local showcase gigs. One of these is a headline slot for Cumbria Cream, which leads to a strong review in the national magazine Making Music.

Radio play and wider attention

Rigsby’s profile grows when it is chosen to play as part of Radio One Sound City in Newcastle. The track “Dive Bomber” receives radio play from Steve Lamacq and John Peel. The band also records a five-track demo called Life, and is selected for another national talent contest that places it at Nottingham’s Rock City, bringing another national review in Melody Maker.

Live shows and later activity

The band continues to play local venues including Monroe’s Bar and the Richmond Hall, and also performs in London at Cairo Jacks as part of an A&R search for unsigned acts. It plays the Pack Horse in Leeds alongside The Dead Pets, and supports (spunge) and The Jellys. Work and family commitments later slow activity, and after Josh goes abroad for work the band’s momentum fades. After a break of almost seven years, Rigsby reforms and begins rehearsing and working on new material.