The Enid

The Enid is a British rock group from Tenterden, formed in 1975 by Robert John Godfrey, Stephen Stewart and Francis Lickerish. Its line-up changes frequently, but Godfrey remains the central figure and has led the band throughout its long history. Current and past members include Jason Ducker, Max Read, Dave Storey, Dominic Tofield, Joe Payne, Nick Magnus, William Gilmour, Martin Russell, Chris North, Terry Pack, Nicholas Willes, Robert Perry, Glenn Tollett and Charlie Elston.

Style and approach

The band is associated with progressive rock, symphonic prog, symphonic rock, symphonic and art rock. Godfrey has said that he does not regard the group as progressive rock, despite that label being applied to it by fans and the music press. The Enid is known for combining rock with classical influences, and Godfrey has described this as having an anarchic quality.

Recording and releases

The Enid starts recording in the period when punk rock emerges in the UK. After difficulties with major labels, the group moves towards self-publishing and self-promotion. One settlement leaves it with recording equipment, which it uses to set up The Lodge Recording Studio and rent the studio to other artists between its own projects. Its catalogue is issued on GPO Limited.

The band records sporadically over the years and releases Journey's End, a studio album that receives critical acclaim. It premières the album at Birmingham Town Hall, then performs it in full the following year alongside older material, including Fand, with the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra.

Notable work and activity

In 1981, The Enid plays most of the music for Kim Wilde's self-titled debut album. The group also works on an ambitious stage production called The Bridge, described as its most elaborate project since Salome in 1986. In 2012, it recruits vocalist Joe Payne, who adds a new lead-vocal presence and reinterprets older material in the band's repertoire.

Members and related figures

Early member William Gilmour later forms Craft and plays keyboards in Francis Lickerish's band Secret Green. The Enid's personnel has included Robert John Godfrey on keyboards, Francis Lickerish on guitar, Stephen Stewart, Jason Ducker on guitar, Max Read on vocals, guitar and keyboards, Dave Storey on drums, Dominic Tofield on percussion and Joe Payne on vocals and keyboards.