The Early Years

Throughout the late 80s bands such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest & Black Sabbath dominated the rock charts, Bon Jovi and the American pop/rock bands dominated everything else. But the cult rock scene boomed with bands like Dumpys Rusty Nuts, The Ground Hogs, The Red Beards from Texas all continuously touring and satisfying the needs of the local rock fan. One particular band involved in that situation was FIRST OFFENCE. Their originality and style of music was quickly snapped up and the band signed a record and distribution deal with Metalother Records and Spartan.

The Band went on to release acclaimed albums THE FIRST OFFENCE and THE HAND THAT ROCKS and appeared on several compilation albums. Numerous national radio plays followed including two sessions for TOMMY VANCE broadcasted on his legendary FRIDAY ROCK SHOW. In 1991 the band folded amidst record company and management wrangles.

A decade later with the surge of 70s and 80s nostalgia vocalist Rob Hall, guitarist Bumpy Rhoades and drum Jack Hammer reformed FIRST OFFENCE with the full support of their new record company SPIRAL GROOVE.

THE FIRST OFFENCE

Punchy and Imaginative Hard Rock 82/100  -Bernard Doe "Metal Forces" 
Reminiscent of Steppenwolf and Dumpys Rusty Nuts  - David Oliver "Kerrang"

THE HAND THAT ROCKS

Produced by Nick Bowcott of GRIM REAPER and GUITARIST magazine fame is a slight diversion for this band in style and content but is still as hard hitting as a hammer to the head.  Listen out for the chanting monks. - Chris Johnson "Music West"

FIRST OFFENCE

Turn your radio up, listen and make your own mind up - Tommy Vance