Cassie – The Light Shines On – New LP

Formed in 1978 the UK four-piece of Debbie Barker (Lead Vocals), Nigel Hayles, Eric Biggs and Hugh Kim Lewis was originally known as FLIRT before changing their name to CASSIE in 1979; likely as a nod to BLONDIE whose songs the group favored.

Originating on the Isle of Wight, Cassie initially appeared under the monikers of High Voltage and Black Dog. In late 1978, Debbie Barker joined the group as lead vocalist and immediately formed a tight songwriting partnership with guitarist Nigel Hayes. Before long, fans of the group now known as Flirt, were calling out for the band’s own punky/pop material, rather than their staple of covers, and singing along with them at their local gigs. Several demo and recording sessions occurred between early 1980 and 1983 all of which remained unreleased until now.  It was not until Flirt caught the attention of former Black Sabbath co-manager and producer Wilf Pine in 1981 that they group would issue what would be their first and only single. Under Pine’s management and with the new name of Cassie, the group re-recorded new versions of ‘Change My Image’ and ‘Will You’ for a single release on A.K.A. Records in 1982. Despite the record’s strength, A.K.A.’s untenable financial situation resulted in almost zero promotion for Cassie’s single. Cassie continued to gig and record for a few more years before ultimately disbanding with its members joining other bands.