Gryphon to continue without Richard Harvey

Gryphon co-founder Richard Harvey has left the band to concentrate on his other projects – but they’ll keep going without him, they’ve announced.

The multi-instrumentalist started the medieval and Renaissance-inspired outfit in the early 1970s with Brian Gulland, and they were later joined by Graeme Taylor and Dave Oberle.

Their initial stint came to and end in 1977, and Harvey pursued a career in film and TV soundtracks. They regrouped in 2009 for what was planned as a one-off concert, then returned to action in 2014.

Gryphon say: “With deep regret and great sadness, we have to announced that Richard will no longer be able to continue as a member.

“Richard has considered his situation very carefully, and his commitments to touring, film and composition work, plus his charity, the MAE Foundation, make it impossible for him to dedicate the time needed to continue as part of the band.”

They add: “The remaining members – Graeme, Brian, Dave and Graham Preskett – have decided that, while it will be extremely difficult to replace Richard, Gryphon will continue. To this end a statement will be released shortly.”

The band last toured in May 2015.

Gryphon Live In London

Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.