After returning from Switzerland and his extensive work with distorto-rock trio 16-17 for Digital Hardcore Recordings, Damian meets Ben, and after discovering a mutual love of Rachels and Caustic Window, form Gauge. This is 1996. They need a drummer, so Ben coerces his girlfriend Flo to play. She is reluctant to leave her lap-dancing job in the Digbeth quarter of Birmingham, but does so. So it was almost by chance that these three musical super-forces were joined to form the single gauge unit. But what a lucky chance.
As a 3-piece they record 'The Self Second' EP on Billy Reeves' (founder member of theaudience, dontcha know) Bright Recordings label. Somehow inheriting a spot in the prime of the Bristol 'scene', although how is not entirely clear.. they land themselves an album deal with the seminal but virtually non-existent Planet Records (of Bristol).
By the time 'The Gatehouse' comes out, Ben and Flo have left the band to open a florist in Wolvey, Near Hinckley.
Damian is also currently carthage and founder of the Twin Valley Falls label, as well as bassist for 16-17. He was also previously involved in collaborations with Techno Animal.
The Self Second (EP) (Bright Recordings)
The Gatehouse (12" LP) (PAUSE_2)
audio: here