Draft:The Wild Cats

The Wild Cats
The Wild Cats in 2017: Sven Hendrikson, Cris Mayfield, and others.
Background information
Also known as	The Flowers of the Universe (2015 – 2017)
Origin	“interplanetary”
Genres	Glam Rock, Rock and Roll
Years active	1973–present
Labels	Līdo, Storz Records, Go Cats Go, Hellskitchen Records.
Members	Cris Mayfield Stardust Steve Camille Camille Sven Hendrikson Henry Scott
Past members	Ed Edinburgh Steve England Rein Foxx Tacciana Gaszimowa Roel Hazelhof Eimel Kaljulaid Bruno O’Ya Pexte Paxter Lex Priest Phil Ridden Peter Schenk Mark St. John Big Jim Sullivan Tony Belcher Kees van Bemmel Tony Blackplait Cat Bloomfield Achim Bredow Kees Jan Dekker
Website	The Wild Cats www.apollo.ee/lp-the-wild-cats-we-come-in-peace.html

The Wild Cats (often shortened to just Wild Cats) are a glam rock band who rose to visibility in the flamboyant era of 1970s. With a lineup that stands out with strange figures and a distinctive fusion of punk, glam, and rock influences, The Wild Cats writed their name in the music scene as an “interplanetary” glam rock band. Known for their eclectic style and “intergalactic” persona, the band has experienced various transformations. Originally formed as The Wild Cats, the band adopted the name The Flowers of the Universe during the period of 2015 – 2017.

Formation and Early Years

Formed in 1973 amidst the vibrant music scene, The Wild Cats were a product of the era’s testing and innovation with their special blend of glam rock and rock and roll. The original lineup consisted of Cat Bloomfield on vocals, Ed Edinburgh on lead guitar, Tacciana Gaszimowa on violin, Lex Priest on bass guitar, and Henry Leppnurm on drums. Fueled by a shared vision of widening boundaries and strange conventions, the founding members brought their signature flair to create a sound that suited with the evolving tastes of the era.

Breakthrough and Evolution

The band appeared on stage with their debut album, We Come in Peace, released in 1974 (re-issued 2020). Tracks like “Alley of the Lonely Hearts”, “Glam Rock Hits” and “Paris in Spring” became theme music of the band. The Wild Cats’ over-the-top fashion sense and theatrical performances, characterized by glittery outfits, platform boots, and outrageous makeup, contributed to their image.

Cosmic glamour and rebellion: Kiss and The Wild Cats

Kiss and The Wild Cats shared several TV shows, where their colorful performances brought rocking moments to the audience. The TV broadcasts between them were events that combined music, visuals and audience engagement. In addition, TV performances gave the opportunity to observe the traces of influences in the bands’ work and shape the trends of rock music.

Rise to Stardom: Rockin’ Holidays at the Whisky a Go Go, and The Wild Cats’ Christmas Residency

In the late 1970s, The Wild Cats fully merged with the glam rock aesthetic, marking in some ways a breakthrough for The Wild Cats. Flamboyant costumes, glittering makeup, and anthemic guitar riffs solidified their identity and garnered a notable fan base drawn to their stage presence. Legendary performances at Whisky a Go Go in West Hollywood on December 22, 23, and 24, 1977 marked a certain turning point, establishing them as a hallmark in the glam rock scene. The Wild Cats' influence extended beyond the glam rock era, inspiring subsequent generations of musicians. Their eclectic fusion of rock, glam, and pop elements became enduring hallmarks of the movement. Despite disbanding in the late '70s, the Wild Cats' music and legacy lived on, remembered as pioneers who challenged musical norms.

Under the name of The Flowers of Romance (1978–1985)

Main article: The Flowers of Romance

After disbanding in 1978, the band performed under the name The Flowers of Romance from 1978 to 1985. This period marked a crucial chapter in the evolution of the group, showcasing their artistic experimentation and the formation of their distinctive identity. During the period of 1978 to 1985, The Wild Cats adopted the alternative identity of The Flowers of Romance, a name that signified the punk and new romantic era. This incarnation of the band saw a lineup consisting of diverse talents, bringing together a collective of musicians with unique backgrounds and influences: Cat Bloomfield, Alex Knio, Maurice Cohen, Henry Leppnurm, Pexte Paxter, Marco Pirroni, Bruno O’Ya, Dave Goodman, Anti Pathique, and Steve England who was a radio disc jockey for the offshore pirate radio stations Radio Caroline, Radio Mi Amigo and Radio Atlantis, who currently (Decenber 16, 2022) runs a jingle production company in Leek, Staffordshire, founded in 1997. He has been called the “radio advertising guru” and is a former member of glam punk band The Flowers of Romance.

A Literary Equivalent to Music

The Flowers of Romance’s music was described as a literary equivalent to a collaboration between Neal Stephenson and Robert Anton Wilson, reflecting a unique blend of influences and a commitment to originality. Their approach to combining different musical elements into something distinctive set them apart within the glam punk landscape.

Multinational and Micronation Connection

Notably, The Flowers of Romance claimed to come from the disputed micronation of Sealand, situated 6 miles off the shore of England. This added a layer of intrigue to their identity. The Flowers of Romance left a surreal and captivating background story, documented by Cat Bloomfield’s experiences as an author. The Flowers of Romance era added a fascinating chapter to The Wild Cats’ legacy, blending musicians and styles in a way that captured the essence of the punk/new romantic era. Memories from Soo Catwoman and Johnny Rotten offered different perspectives on the origin of the name The Flowers of Romance, adding an additional layer of mystery to the band’s history. The Flowers of Romance (1978–1985) remains a testament to The Wild Cats’ ability to reinvent themselves, experiment with musical genres, and embrace the anarchist spirit that defined an era.

Transition to The Wild Cats

As the Flowers of Romance era came to a close in 1985, the band once again embraced the name that had come to define their status — The Wild Cats. This return marked a full-circle journey, having explored and celebrated the various phases of their musical evolution. The transition from The Flowers of Romance to The Wild Cats again marked a transformative moment that propelled the band into the glam rock spotlight.

Strutting Through the Glam Rock Decades (1985–2015)

Netherlands Adventures and Baltic Nights

The Baltic region experienced The Wild Cats’ prowess in a city like Uitgeest, Tallinn and Krefeld. On March 26, 1989 The Wild Cats performed in Uitgeest at De Ooievaar (Kerkbuurt 3, 1911 CM Uitgeest, Netherlands) alongside the infamous The Rumble Cats. On February 2nd, 1999 The Wild Cats played in Tallinn at Guitar Safari (Müürivahe 22, Tallinn, Estonia) alongside the famous Matchbox (band), delivering a high-quality concert experience. On October 19, 2002 The Wild Cats rocked in Krefeld at Kulturfabrik (Dießemer Str. 13, 47799 Krefeld, Germany) alongside the famous Matchbox again, delivering a high-quality concert experience.

The Wild Cats’ Night at Muziekclub 4AD: An Adventure in Diksmuide, Belgium (2002)

In November 9, 2002, The Wild Cats entertained the audience at Muziekclub 4AD in Diksmuide, Belgium. Taking the stage at Kleine Dijk 57, the rock band began their performance at 10 PM, leaving a mark on their live performance history. This night at Muziekclub 4AD became a substantial moment in The Wild Cats’ musical timeline. Cris Mayfield’s vocals, Big Jim Sullivan’s and Tony Belcher’s guitars, Sven Hendrikson’s bass and Henry Leppnurm’s drumming delivered a show that resonated with those in attendance.

Riga Tour 2004: Priekšpavasaris Ziemelaustrumi-Eiropā

It was the year 2004, and The Wild Cats embarked on a whimsical tour that would leave a mark on the European music scene. With their glittering outfits and audacious stage presence, the band was set to conquer stages across the continent. The Priekšpavasaris Ziemelaustrumu-Eiropā tour started in Latvia, where the Limbažu Kultūras Nams in Lemsalu witnessed a celebration on Johnny Rotten’s birthday. The Wild Cats, amidst applause, took the audience on a journey through their glam-rock repertoire. As the tour continued through Riga, Jelgava, and even a TV performance at Austrumu Robeza, The Wild Cats entertained fans and enthusiasts alike. The tour culminated in a special concert at Cita Opera in Riga on April 23, marking William Shakespeare's 440th birthday.

Paris Tour 2004: Tournée du Chat Noir

The glamour didn’t stop at the Baltic borders; it extended to the romantic streets of Paris. The Wild Cats were the creators of strange concert experiences. Conceptual tours like the Tournée du Chat Noir in June 2004 transformed cinematic locations like Place Saint Sulpice and Quartier Latin into stages for The Wild Cats’ performances. Paris, with its rich artistic history, became entertained by The Wild Cats. The Quartier Latin show, held in an old Parisian bus, became memorable, leaving the Parisian crowd clamoring for more. Performances at the bustling Place Saint Sulpice and intimate setting of Ą La Goguette were soirées filled with bohemian nature and musical atmosphere.

Small Europe Tour 2004: Tournée du Chat Noir 2

Later that year, 2004, The Wild Cats embarked on the Tournée du Chat Noir 2, captivating audiences in Warsaw, Berlin, and Helsinki. Venturing into Berlin's alternative scene, The Wild Cats embraced punk and glam influences. Stages at the legendary Wild At Heart in November 3, 2004 and from the Vastavirta Klubi to the serene landscapes of Virelä in Tampere, Finland, in 2005, Nordic nights were filled with punk rock fervor. They celebrated Eugène Bigel's 134th birthday in Vantaa in 2006, marking the occasion with a performance in the northern European night.

Pirates of Destiny Tour 2008

In 2008, their Pirates of Destiny Tour took them to Dharamsala, India, and Raisio and Turku in Finland. The year 2008 started with the Pirates of Destiny Tour, taking The Wild Cats across various venues in Estonia. The Wild Cats collaborated with artists worldwide. Notable performances included the Hullud Otsivad Sind! event in Tallinn, where the band shared the stage with other acts such as RPM, Cpt. Rock Hard And Master Bates, and Chungin & The Strap-On Faggots. The tour also featured appearances in Tartu, Pärnu, and unique events advocating for Tibet's independence, and even participating in the Tibetan Olympics 2008. The Pirates of Destiny Tour 2008 marked a special chapter in The Wild Cats’ journey. From Tibetan Olympics in Dharamsala to Street Bar 95 in Turku, The Wild Cats embraced the pirate theme, adding an extra layer of theatricality to their performances, and collaborations with other artists enriched their musical tapestry during this era.

Magnus Ducatus Litvaniae Tour 2008

The summer of 2008 saw The Wild Cats embark on the Magnus Ducatus Litvaniae Tour, taking their glam sound to different cities, including Tartu, Viinistu, Pärnu, and Mustla. Notable events included performing at the wedding of Ingmar Saksing & Reet Reimann in Pärnu and participating in the Mustakurmu Motopall. Later, the Magnus Ducatus Litvaniae Tour 2008 saw them in Berlin. The vibrant Clash in Berlin set the backdrop for theatrical nights and performances, celebrating Reginleif Trubetsky's birthday. And in Helsinki the Magnus Ducatus Litvaniae Tour showcased their ability to infuse storytelling into performances, celebrating birthdays and literary figures. The band’s adventures weren't confined to Europe. In 2009, The Swindle Continues Tour saw them performing in Riga and Valka, and in 2010, the Apollo 9 Tour visited Nabaklab and Depo in Riga.

Belgium-France Mini-Tour 2011

As the years unfolded, The Wild Cats’ journey continued with a mini-tour in Belgium, France, and Finland. In 2011, The Wild Cats, led by Cris Mayfield, underwent a space-themed transformation during their tour of Belgium. The tour featured four concerts, collaborating with Belgian glam punk band Keeper Volant. Memorable Performances: The first concert took place in Brussels, where Keeper Volant opened the stage, followed by The Wild Cats. The band lineup at that time included Sofia Joons on violin, and Henry Leppnurm on lead guitar... The reception was warm, and the organizers even arranged a memorable evening for the bands, reminiscent of a grand celebration with long tables, attended by brides and parents. The tour continued with a performance in Antwerp and a particularly remarkable concert in Lille, France, near the Belgian border. The latter proved to be the highlight of the tour, drawing a diverse audience of middle-aged and older rock enthusiasts. This marked a departure from the more common rosters in France, where rock music was less prevalent. The final concert took place in Geel at the Jeugdhuis de Bogaard youth center, offering a different setting from the preceding events due to its local and youthful ambiance. Unforeseen Challenges and Journey Home: The return journey brought unexpected challenges when Brussels airport authorities initially hesitated to allow the band’s instruments on board. Resourcefulness prevailed, and the guitars found their way onto the plane via a discreet route through the airport restaurant. An unforeseen turn of events occurred during the flight when the plane experienced engine issues over Poland, necessitating a return to Belgium. Upon landing, the band had to switch to another plane in Brussels. Luckily, the transition was smooth, allowing them to bypass security checks with guitars in tow. Reflections and Future Plans: The Belgium tour of 2011 left a positive impression on The Wild Cats. Cris Mayfield reflected on the significance of such journeys for a band, considering them essential for growth and exposure. By 2012, they were back at Depo in Riga, filling the night with their performance.

Under the banner of The Flowers of the Universe (2015–2017)

Main article: The Flowers of the Universe

A Reimagined Identity

In a surprising venture, The Wild Cats undertook a unique musical exploration by adopting the name The Flowers of the Universe from 2015 to 2017. This period showcased the band’s commitment to pushing artistic boundaries and experimenting with diverse musical landscapes. In 2015, the musical journey of the band continued under the moniker The Flowers of the Universe, marking a distinct chapter in the evolution of the ensemble. The band, led by the multifaceted musician Cris Mayfield, underwent a transformation inspired by cosmic themes. The decision to temporarily alter the band’s name to The Flowers of the Universe was driven by a desire to explore a more space-inspired and fantastical musical direction.

Conceptual Performances

The Flowers of the Universe (2015–2017) era was accompanied by conceptual live performances that blurred the lines between music and visual art. The band curated the cosmic experiences, incorporating multimedia elements to enhance the audience's connection with their experimental musical journey.

Legacy of Innovation

The Flowers of the Universe (2015–2017) era stands as a testament to The Wild Cats’ pursuit of artistic innovation. This period of experimentation, marked by sonic diversity and conceptual performances, adds a layer of complexity to the band’s legacy, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive in ever-changing musical landscapes. The Flowers of the Universe remains an experimental chapter in The Wild Cats' history, demonstrating their unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring the endless possibilities within the realm of music and performance art.

Discography of The Flowers of the Universe

• 1. The Glamrocker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Līgo, 2015, CD)
• 2. From Here to Eternity (Līgo, 2016, CD)

Return to The Wild Cats

As the Flowers of the Universe era drew to a close in 2017, the band once again embraced their usual name, The Wild Cats. This transition symbolized a return to their roots, enriched by the experiences and creative exploration undertaken during the Flowers of the Universe phase.

Modern Times

As the year went by, The Wild Cats continued to evolve while staying true to their roots. Their January 6, 2018 performance in Riga, Total Three Kings Day Energy Show, showcased their continued popularity. The band’s ability to connect with audiences is still there, reaffirming their status in the annals of glam rock.

The Wild Cats’ Glamorous Night at Depo

In the heart of old Riga, the vibrant city that wears its history like a crown, there was a night in July 20, 2019 that would be fitted in the city's musical tapestry. At the iconic rock venue, Depo, located on Valnu iela 32, the stage was set for a spectacle — a night of glam rock headlined by The Wild Cats. As the sun dipped below the Riga skyline, casting a golden Daugava glow over the cobbled streets, fans and curious music enthusiasts alike gathered at Depo. The venue's doors swung open, revealing an interior transformed into a glam extravagance. The atmosphere opened with hiss as the first chords from Tavas Māsas Nāsis reverberated through the venue. The opening acts, including The Diamond Blow and the legendary Vennaskond, who set the stage on fire, prepared the audience for that was about to unfold. And then, in a cascade of glittering lights, The Wild Cats took the stage. Dressed in outfits that paid homage to the glam rock gods of the past, the band filled the night with a sound that transported the audience to a bygone era of rock 'n' roll glamour. The crowd, a sea of faces, danced and swayed to the rhythm of The Wild Cats' tunes. Each song fused the essence of glam rock with a contemporary edge. Vennaskond, sharing the stage with The Wild Cats, added their own flavor to the night, creating a synergy that resonated through the venue. The Diamond Blow brought their signature style, and Tavas Māsas Nāsis infused the night with an eclectic energy that heightened the feast. As the final chords echoed in the air, the audience lingered in the afterglow of the night. The Wild Cats had orchestrated Riga in a state of collective pastime. And so, on that Baltic July night, Depo became a portal to a world where glam rock reigns supreme, and The Wild Cats stood as its ambassadors. The echoes of their performance lingered in the audience, ensuring that the night of July 20, 2019, would be a chapter in Latvian music history.

Echoes of Glam: The Wild Cats' Extravaganza in Riga

In the dark heart of Riga, where the gothic spirit of the city meets the echoes of its storied past, The Wild Cats, a glam rock band, descended upon the concert venues of Depo and Republika in the fall of 2020. Little did the Latvian capital know that these two nights would become the stuff of rock 'n' roll glamour. On the 4th of September, the dusky atmosphere of Depo, located on Valnu iela 32, became the backdrop for a rock performance by The Wild Cats. The crowd, a mix of devoted fans and curious onlookers, gathered under the neon lights as the band took the stage. Dressed in extravagant glam attire, The Wild Cats unleashed a sonic spectacle that transcended time, blending the spirit of the '70s glam rock era with a modern skate punk band All In. The energy in the venue moved seamlessly through their setlist, leaving no-one untouched by their tunes. Abraham Kenny (Dark Star) and All In, the supporting acts, added their own musical vision to the night, creating a fusion of sounds that echoed through the narrow streets of Vecrīga. As the echoes of Depo lingered, anticipation grew for the next chapter in The Wild Cats' Riga saga. On the 9th of October, the scene shifted to Republika on Mazā Pils iela 11. This time, The Wild Cats shared the stage with The Cinema, promising a night of double the glam, double the rock, and double the spectacle. Republika, with its intimate setting and rich acoustics, became a playground for The Wild Cats' performance. The band, known for their somewhat restrained stage presence, engaged the audience in a visual and auditory show. The collaboration with The Cinema added a new dimension to the night, creating a synergy of styles, that resonated with every tune. Both nights left a peculiar mark on Riga's music scene. The Wild Cats, with their musical prowess, had transported the Latvian audience to a bygone era of glam rock extravagance. As the city's nights echoed their performances, The Wild Cats' visit to Riga in 2020 became a special chapter, writed in the annals of glam rock history.

Notable Performances

The Wild Cats have a rich history of touring, with notable performances in various cities and countries. Their extensive tour dates include appearances in West Hollywood (Whisky a Go Go, 1977), Köln (WDR Studio-L, 1978), New York (CBGB, Continental, 1999), Paris (Ą La Goguette, Place Saint Sulpice, 2004), Lille (Le Yeti, 2011), Berlin (Wild At Heart, 2004, Clash, 2008), Krefeld (Kulturfabrik, 2002), Brussel (DNA, 2011), Diksmuide (Muziekclub 4AD, 2002), Antwerpen (Venue 219, 2011), Geel (Jeugdhuis De Bogaard, 2011), Uitgeest (De Ooievaar, 1989), Stockholm (Estniska Huset, 1999), Warsaw (Progresja, 2004), Riga (Cita Opera, Austrumu Robeža, 2004), Lemsalu (Limbažu Kultūras Nams, 2004), Jelgava (Četri Balti Krekli, 2004), Valka (Borderrock Festival, 2009), Helsinki (Ravintolalaiva Wäiski, 2004, Club Liberté, 2008), Turku (Street Bar 95, 2008), Tampere (Virelä, 2005, Vastavirta Klubi, 2006), Vantaa (Vernissa, 2006), Raisio (Krookilan Kotiseutukeskus, 2008), Tallinn (Lauluväljak, 2009, Haus der Estländischen Ritterschaft, 2011), Dharamsala (Tibetan Olympics 2008, McLeod Ganj TCV Day School, 2008).

Discography

• 1. Alright (Storz Records, 1973, 7’’)
• 2. We Come in Peace (The Wild Cats, 1974, LP)
• 3. Behind Bars (Go Cats Go, 1986, 7’’ EP)
• 4. Apeman Boogie (Hellskitchen Records, 2002, CD Maxi-Single)
• 5. Wild Romance (Hellskitchen Records, 2003, CD)
• 6. Sue Catwoman (The Flowers of Romance, 2004, CD)
• 7. Paris (Līgo, 2006, CD)
• 8. Take and Give (Hellskitchen Records, 2008, CD)
• 9. The Glamrocker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Līgo, 2015, CD)
• 10. From Here to Eternity (Līgo, 2016, CD)
• 11. We Come in Peace (Līgo, 2020, LP)

Web Presence

The Wild Cats maintain an active online presence with:

• The Wild Cats
• The official Twitter page of The Wild Cats
• The Facebook page of The Wild Cats
• LP The Wild Cats - We Come in Peace
• LP The Wild Cats - We Come in Peace
• The first album of the Estonian glam rock band The Wild Cats has been released
• 50 Years of Kiss ⟩ Tõnu Trubetsky looks back at the glam rock giant
• Kiss 50: The Timeless Echo of Glam Rock