Artist description ‘american robots’ is a collaboration between two long-time Hong Kong musicians, Tom Armstrong and Simon Taylor, and lyricist Stewart Oldfield. Their debut CD, ‘stripes’, is an eclectic mix of original pop and dance tunes, recorded and produced in Hong Kong.

Music Style Pop

Musical Influences Many and varied - pop and rock from the 70's, 80's and 90's

Similar Artists Simply Red and others

Artist History ‘american robots’ started life as nothing grander than a vehicle for Tom’s songs. He started the project at the end of 1998 by placing a newspaper ad for a singer/lyricist. After working through numerous replies, he linked up with Stewart Oldfield (at the time a reporter with a local newspaper). Stewart took snippets of music and put words to them, bringing them to life. Tom was then able to structure them into finished songs. Unfortunately, Stewart left HK for Australia in mid-1999, and although Tom tried to keep the link going by e-mail, Stewart had moved on. Through an old friend (and drummer) Colin Tillyer, Tom met Simon Taylor who, it turned out, has similar ideas and taste to himself. Simon agreed to become the voice for the project – and also contributed some mean guitar. With enthusiasm and hard work, the band managed to finish the project (in record time) in December 1999.

Group Members Tom Armstrong - a Hong Kong resident for 19 years. Only real musical presence was as guitar player in Ed Bean's "Get Rich Quick" Mowtown showband 6 years ago. Simon Taylor – has a long musical track record. Has recorded under contract in the UK and in 1997 won a major Hong Kong singing competition beating 1,000 entries with the final held in front of 4,000 people at the Queen Elizabeth Stadium. All keyboard solos are by Jonathon Douglas of the local radio station ‘RTHK Radio 4’. Kim Berry co-wrote and played on two songs from ‘stripes’. The CD cover was designed by Colin Tillyer of ‘graphicat.com’ who also provided some of the drumming.

Instruments Tom (programming, guitar, bass); Simon (vocals, guitar)

Albums 'stripes'

Press Reviews "Once in a while, an album comes along ... this is such an album!" Nury Vittachi, Hongkong Standard. "A fine collection of well crafted, performed and produced songs spanning a broad range of styles. The performers do not appear to be either Americans or robots, but what the hell!" Robin Lynham, South China Morning Post.

Additional Info 'stripes' can be purchased from HMV stores in Hong Kong with proceeds going towards the Kely Support Group, Hong Kong

Location Hong Kong - Hong Kong

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