The Harts
The bands first line-up included Bob Gardiner (Vocals, Rhythm Guitar), Peter Mackay (Vocals, Drums), Harry Herni (Vocals, Lead Guitar) and Derek Manning (Bass). The group had major changes through the years with one member Derek Manning leaving the band and being replaced by Phil Carr. This line-up would endure throughout most of the groups duration.Prior to Manning leaving, the band were signed to the “HMV’ label recording their first release with two original songs ”Little Girl” and “Cry Nomore For You” which were recorded at the Armstrong’s studios in Melbourne in 1977.
Both songs were produced by David Mackay and written by the groups lead vocalist Bob Gardiner. Further recordings never eventuated due to line-up changes over the required three year period. Another contract would be renewed by Darryl Sambell who eventually took over management in later years for a similar three year contract with EMI.
The band ventured to Melbourne and performed at many venues with The Twilights and other major groups such as The Group and The Groove playing venues in Melbourne such as Thumping Tum, Kew Club, The Biting Eye, Tenth Avenue, Catcher, Pinocchio’s, Birties, Opus and many more.Their popularity in Adelaide led to gigs at top venues in their home town.
The group became resident band at “The 20 Plus Club” in Adelaide and would later go on to be the resident band at Adelaide’s popular club “Swinger” held at the “Hotel Australia” in North Adelaide.The group appeared on many television shows including “In Time”, “Adelaide Tonight”, “The Go Show”, “Komotion”, “Happening 70″ etc. Sadly no film or television footage has ever been found considering the group appeared on many television shows in several states over the years.
The Harts supported many acts such as Roy Orbison, Yardbirds, The Walker Brothers, and Bev Harrell at Centennial Hall. The Harts were also support for The Easybeats at Centennial Hall and The Hollies at Adelaide’s Memorial Drive. The group also played a major part in John Farnham’s early career. The group backed Farnham on many occasions in Adelaide and interstate. The band toured Perth, Western Australia for the first time with Farnham in the late sixties. The group ventured many times to Melbourne but would later mainly base themselves in Adelaide most of the time.
The photo shown was taken on “IN-TIME” television morning show with the late host Noel O’connor. Members from left show Harry Herni, Bob Gardiner, plus host Noel O’conor, Phil Carr and Peter Mackay.
Photo from the Bob Gardiner collection. 2022.