Cast

Cast formed in Liverpool in 1992 when John Power left The La's — the legendarily troubled band led by Lee Mavers, whose one album had been released to critical acclaim and commercial indifference in 1990. Power took the melodic sensibility of The La's and added a harder, more energetic edge. Cast were signed to Polydor and began recording their debut.

'All Change' (1995) was one of the best-selling debut albums of the Britpop era. 'Finetime', 'Alright', 'Sandstorm' — the singles were melodic, driving, and full of a genuine warmth that set Cast apart from the more ironic end of Britpop. Power's songwriting was direct and emotional without being mawkish. The album reached number seven and went platinum.

'Mother Nature Calls' (1997) and 'Magic Hour' (1999) maintained the quality, though the commercial momentum slowed as Britpop faded. Cast split in 2001 but reformed in 2010 and have continued to tour and record. Power's commitment to melodic guitar music has never wavered, and their live shows remain among the most enjoyable on the circuit.