"Noel Bangs The Drum"

Gallagher picks up sticks for new band

Noel Gallagher has formed a new band called Tailgunner who, it's rumoured, will play low-key UK dates in September. At the moment, the three-piece features Noel on drums, 'Definitely Maybe, producer and one-time Oasis live engineer Mark Coyle on guitar and vocals and Paul 'Strangeboy' Stacey on bass.

Insiders say Tailgunner, named after a specialist US porn magazine, are looking to make their live debut at a pub gig some time next month but it's not likely Noel’s new project will overshadow his work with Oasis.

A spokesperson for Oasis confirmed the existence of the project, but wouldn't comment on rumours that Creation had given Tailgunner a deal, merely to say, "There's nothing going on with it at the moment. It's too early to say."

Coyle and Stacey have both been earmarked as replacements for Paul 'Bonehead' Arthurs who left the band in March following their return from a studio in France. Last week Bonehead claimed he left the group to spend more time with his family. He said: "Liam and Noel were very cool about it - I think they were shocked but there's no problem. I might go and see them in concert one day as a fan but I'm happy with the decision."

Liam Gallagher has since revealed his unhappiness at Bonehead's departure, in contrast to brother Noel’s assertions that "it's hardly Paul McCartney leaving The Beatles". Liam said: "I'm really not happy about it, none of us are. Bonehead's my mate and it came pretty much out of the blue. It's been a shock but don't worry we're not splitting up. "He's a top man and I wish him luck. He'll probably do some solo stuff and I'm looking forward to that - he's got talent. Of course he has, he was in Oasis."

Liam also spoke about the forthcoming new oasis album, set for release next year. He said: "We're getting really excited about the new album. It's class. I'm feeling great and I haven't been drinking loads - I'm not porky."

Meanwhile, tabloid speculation that Electronic and ex-Smiths guitarist Johnny Marr would replace Bonehead have been denied by Marr's press office. A spokesperson said: "it's completely untrue. He categorically said he's not joining Oasis. I just hope he finds the whole thing funny."

As Oasis will not be playing gigs until next year, it's unlikely a replacement guitarist will be announced until then. The first single from the as-yet-untitled follow-up to 1997's 'Be Here Now' LP will be 'Go Let It Out'.

• New Musical Express News Articles - index

c 1999 Andrew Turner

aturner@interalpha.co.uk

This page hosted byGet your ownFree Home Page