New Haze DVD 'In That Branch Of The Lake'

"Formed in 1978 by Chris and Paul McMahon, Haze were one of the founders of the neo-progressive revival of the early 1980s. The band went through a number of line-up changes until drummer Paul Chisnell joined in 1983, completing the classic line-up which was to remain unaltered until the band's [initial] demise in 1988.

The band set up their own label, Gabadon Records, and in 1984 released their first vinyl album, 'C'est  La Vie', through Pinnacle distribution. It is, however, for their incessant gigging schedule in the U.K. that they will be most fondly remembered. [...] playing over 500 shows with a lack of pretentiousness and sense of humour that delighted progressive and rock  audiences alike. In 1987 the band released their second and last vinyl album 'Stoat & Bottle', and toured Holland, their first and only [until recently, that is] dates outside the U.K.

By the end of 1987, the band were becoming disillusioned with their lack of further success, and plagued by financial problems [...] Musical differences were also beginning to show, with the band's eclecticism taking them beyond the traditionally accepted boundaries of progressive rock. Haze disbanded after a farewell concert in Sheffield on 29th May 1988, exactly ten years after their formation. The McMahon brothers then formed World Turtle, a four-piece band including Pendragon drummer Fudge Smith, but the band soon slimmed down to a duo of Chris & Paul McMahon.

In 1993, the memory of Haze was revived by American label Kinesis Discs, who released an 18 track CD of remixed and remastered Haze tracks. As a result of the interest caused by this release,  Cyclops Records signed World Turtle in February 1994 and in July of 94 the group released a new CD 'Haze', comprising  tracks that would have formed the third Haze album, plus the best of recent World Turtle, and a couple of re-recorded Haze classics.

In 1997 World Turtle released 'Wilderness Of Eden', an experimental and innovative work including guest appearances from drummer Sam Carr, sax & flautist Derek Nash and string players Gordon Walker & Linda Wilson amongst others. While not quite a 'concept album', many of the songs are linked by a common theme.

Although part of the 1980s "progressive" revival, Haze were always much more than just another Yes/Genesis clone, moving with ease across the spectrum from rock to funk, pop to progressive in their own distinctive style. World Turtle have continued in this tradition, bringing modern sounds and influences, as well as powerful, intelligent lyrics to the brothers' undoubted musical and songwriting skills.

[...] the band have headlined a number of shows in Sheffield, supported IQ and John Wetton at the Whitchurch Music Festival and toured Italy, Belgium & Switzerland twice. [...] Haze have just played shows in Sheffield & London for their 30th anniversary, and are planning a European tour in the autumn.

Their last 80s album "Stoat & Bottle" has just been reissued on Cyclops Records, as has the 30th anniversary shows double CD."