A USUAL SUSPECT INTERVIEW WITH TONY O’HORA – the new SWEET vocalist/bass player

Tony – pic by John Dowell

John Dowell (VC10) prises open the lid a little to see what’s inside the “new boy”

Your appointment seemed to come rather suddenly and unexpectedly to Sweet
fans. How did you joining Sweet come about? I understand you knew Bruce, did
he introduce you?



When we recorded 'Nowhere to Hide' (Praying Mantis) the drums were done at
Andy Scott's studio. The vocals and instruments were already laid down and
Andy had heard my voice. When it came to the point of the band considering a
new vocalist Andy asked Bruce for my telephone number. I went to meet Andy
and recorded 'Fox on the Run' to find out whether my voice would be
suitable, Andy was satisfied that it was.



What's your date of birth? By that I mean, were you the right age to be a
Sweet fan as a child?



I spent my teenage years in Canada and had purchased 'Love is like Oxygen'
and 'Fox on the Run' as a young Rock fan.

Fave Sweet track or album?



'Action' - no question!!!



What are your own musical influences?



 Several-Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Beatles, Sweet, Black Sabbath, Eagles,
Beach Boys ...


What instruments do you play? Do you write material too?

 I am mainly a vocalist and have a few years training on the piano. Also, I
play a bit of guitar/bass. I have a moderate home digital studio which comes
in handy for writings/collaborations


How are you finding the tour? There's a small contingent of Sweet fans there
rather than at a stand-alone gig. How do you think you are going down?



For me, the tour is getting better night by night. The band are having a
riot and this is reflected by the partisan crowd response. Please be aware
that we are currently part of a 'Glitz, Blitz, 70's Hits' theatre tour that
is very successful. Don't think for one minute that we are not thinking of
letting loose with some of the earlier stuff. This will happen; but at the
moment the crowds are very appreciative of our set.



Are you standing in, on probation or officially a member of the band?



I am a member of the band. By the way, I occasionally have a flutter around
the web sites and let it be known that in all my years as a professional
musician, Andy Scott is the most considerate gentleman I have ever had the
pleasure of working with.

History? Where are you from? What bands have you played with and how would
you describe your musical style prior to joining Sweet?

I was with 2 professional bands previously, 'Praying Mantis' with whom I
made 2 albums and a Japanese tour, plus a British tour with 'Onslaught'.

Both were fantastic bands and I enjoyed my time with them but I feel that
Sweet is perfect for me.


You seem to have played in more heavier bands than Sweets current image. Do
you think you'll influence their style and, indeed do you think you've been
brought to toughen up the act?

NO


Who drinks the most?  Can you keep up with them? :-)



NOYB


You mentioned straight after this tour the band will be rehearsing up some
"new" material - original Sweet tracks that haven't been played for many
years, if at all. Can you name tracks at this stage or add any more to that?

 Wait for the surprises!



Will you be returning any Sweetlife tracks to the set?



 Yes



What do you see for the band over say the next 12 months?



We are already extremely busy but our goal is to reach you all.



Any message to the fans?



Thanks for your support/patience. I have never had the privilege of working
with such fantastic musicians. Come and see for yourself. Look forward to
seeing you in 2003!



Thank you Tony!