Dave Rowntree was born in Colchester in March 1963. Young Dave was also musical - drumming was his first love, and at one time he was taught by a Scotsman who would tape a sixpence to the skin of the drum and hit poor Dave over the head every time he missed! He also attended Saturday morning jazz classes which were run by Graham's father Bob. Dave's first public performance was at his street party at the Queen's jubilee. At the age of 19, he joined a band called Idle Vice. A vague friend, Graham would often jam with them bringing his sax to boost Idle Vice's brass section. Dave then decided to travel Europe and ended up busking in France for a year. On his return, he landed an office job as a computer programmer (complete with suit & mochican - courtesy of Idle Vice). Several months later, he attended a solo gig by Damon, along with Graham. Dave was impressed. "If you ever need a drummer, give me a call..." That call came within weeks.
