The Christians

Described as "the Temptations in ripped jeans ......" by one rock critic, the Liverpool band's infectious melodies and warm harmonies had a deep emotional undercurrent.

Feeding on accusations, protest, despair and even self-doubt, their "socially aware soul" made a big impact on the complacent music scene of the late 80s.

The band's name came from the surname of the three brothers that were originally in the line-up (Garry, Russell and Roger Christian) and was also, coincidentally, their songwriter/guitarist/keyboards player Henry Priestman's middle name.Their 1987 triple-platinum debut album, "The Christians", entered the album chart at No.2 and featured the Top 30 singles "Forgotten Town", "Hooverville, "Ideal World" and "Born Again".

A sell-out tour of the major British cities followed, including consecutive nights at the Hammersmith Odeon, with additional appearances in Holland, Germany and France.

In 1988 they released a cover of the Isley Brothers' "Harvest for the World", with all proceeds going to British Third-World charities.

They also performed with other Liverpool artists Paul McCartney, Holly Johnson and Gerry Marsden on a version of "Ferry Cross The Mersey", released in aid of those affected by the Hillsborough football disaster, which stayed at No.1 for 3 weeks.Their second album, "Colour", was released in 1990 and went to No.1 in the album chart.

The most successful single was the atmospheric "Words" but others released included "I Found Out" and the uplifting "Greenbank Drive". "Happy In Hell" (1992), their third album, reached No. 18 in the album charts and included the singles "What's In A Word" and "The Bottle".Now, Garry is "the face" and "the voice" of The Christians.

The only original member of the band, his voice is as deep, velvet smooth and soulful as ever.

With his cool, distinctive style (still sporting the Ray-Bans), and natural good-looks, he is unsurprisingly a big hit with the female fans - Youve still gorrit Gaz la is a frequent shout.