DAVE (bass, vocals) Another early '60s starter, Dave initially tackled guitar but soon made the switch to bass - a decision he's never regretted... After learning the ropes via numerous local line-ups (including a stint with drummer Steve) he jacked in his day job to go full-time with Paintbox, a pro band with some singles to their name, and it was then that he first met Paul... Dave stayed on when this group evolved into Mercedes, one of the leading lights in the West Country throughout the '80s, performing powerful original material with great success. Mercedes toured extensively in the UK, Europe and America, as well as recording frequently and making numerous appearances on TV and radio. Although often on the verge of breaking into the big time, things never quite worked out for the band and the end came in the late '80s... Dave subsequently teamed up with another ex-Mercedes member to form Total Strangers, again based in the South West. This proved to be a very popular and profitable move, providing over 3,500 gigs and several well-received albums... After 11 years, Dave decided it was time to apply his well-honed skills elsewhere and in 2001 he joined STATUS CLONE - the newest recruit to the ranks, but an old friend to all involved... He has also managed to become a well-respected reviewer for various monthly music magazines in the UK.