HOWTH, CO. DUBLIN

1979 - 1980

OVERVIEW Spies was a North Dublin rock band which was active at the end of the 1970s. The core of the group had come together as The Dark in about 1978. That lineup had featured Joey Barry [Vocals], Gerry Leonard [Guitar], Peter Leonard [Guitar], Alex McGrath [Bass Guitar] and Gerry Daly [Drums]. However, that lineup was shortlived. Stuart McMillan replaced Daly on drums and Spies was born. The band released on single during its career. Entitled 'Thinking About The Sun' the 7" was released on Phaeton Records in 1980. By the time of the recording, Alex had left the group and had been replaced by Jack Dublin of Rocky DeValera And The Gravediggers Fame. The group disbanded shortly after the single release. Joey and Gerry went on to play together again as part of Above The Thunderclouds before pursuing different musical paths. Joey joined Thee Amazing Colossal Men who, subsequently, became Compulaion. Gerry,on the other hand, formed Hinterland along with Donal Coughlan before launching a solo career under the Spooky Ghost alias. 1979 - Band formed 1980 - Release of 'Thinking About The Sun' single - Band split