NATIVES
BIOGRAPHYNATIVES
BIOGRAPHYTRADING WITH THE NATIVES were formed in the autumn of 1989. Initially a six-piece, the band presented a contemporary edge, illustrating not only the instrumental talents of the band but also a distinctive vocal/harmony sound - something that they still concentrate on today. At that time they were one of the few British country bands playing predominantly modern material.
The Natives became a five piece in October 1991, settling on a line-up featuring a female vocalist. The band's first cassette, "Restless", was released in October 1992. Appearances at several country festivals and successful mini tours of the west country and Yorkshire followed, as well as appearances at a number of the holiday camp festivals. The summer of 1994 culminated with The Natives' inclusion in the "Way Out West" Records release "The Best of New British Country - Declaration of Independence".
Other highlights in the band’s career include:-
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Festival dates in Holland March 1991; |
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Southern Country Magazine cover artists in April 1993 and December 1996; |
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Appearances at major festivals (including four times at the Americana festival in Newark) throughout the United Kingdom; |
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Band profile in North Country Music Magazine August 2000. |
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Release of the critically acclaimed CD 'Return of the Natives' July 2000. |
Nadine has many years experience in country music. She appeared on broadcaster Stuart Cameron’s Silver Heart label and has been involved in several projects in recording studios.
Nadine's association with The Natives started as sound engineer. Some of her favourite country artists/bands are Martina McBride, Diamond Rio, Gretchen Wilson, Montgomery Gentry, Pin Monkey and Brady Seals.
Jake is the newest member of The Natives.
Born in Derby, Jake has been playing drums for 30 years and country music for 18 years. He was a long term member of both Lazy Dog and Allison 'J' & The Union. His rocking country favourites are Poco, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Eagles and the Ozark Mountain Daredevils.
Martin joined the Natives in October 1994. He has played for 28 years and has a wealth of experience in rock, blues, pop and country music. A former band mate of Mark’s in the early eighties, Martin is a seasoned session player with his own home studio. Martin also helps retain The Natives' trademark vocal sound with his harmony capabilities. Away from the band he is also a practising Kinesiologist, to find out more check out the Natives links section.
Mark is a founding member of The Natives and a player for over 30 years. His first excursion into country was playing for "Slowpoke", a London based rocking country outfit in the late eighties. As well as numerous deps and studio sessions, Mark has played in the States at the St Louis International Steel Guitar Festival, backing Gerry Hogan. Among his favourite country artists/bands are Diamond Rio, Vince Gill, Desert Rose Band (RIP), Sons of the Desert (RIP), Montgomery Gentry and Hot Apple Pie.
The band have been a four piece since 1997 and have significantly increased their profile worldwide with the release (in July 2000) of their 12 track CD album ‘Return of the Natives’. Tracks from the album, which includes some original material, have received airplay all over the world.