Mike Dorane

[lenroy]

I think that you're right. I am getting very old and forgetful (too much fast food ages the brain). A reggae music download site called reggae revive45.com (a legal site - I've used them before many a time) has a lp for download by merger called Armageddon Time from 1980. I'll have to check it out sometime.

[Matt23]

Sorry to hear about Mike, was trying to see where he was in order to visit him. Used to go round his place in Tottenham late 90s, lovely fella, he repaired some old anaologue synths I had. Always playing and making new tracks, sad I never got to say goodbye.

[kalcidis]

I've got both albums by Merger and I consider both of them very worthwhile. The first set is arguably the stronger one and draws influence from other musical genres without being watered down (as it often tends to be). The title track and »Have You Heard?« are songs I never tire of. The second set is quite sublime with some beautiful arrangements. Merger for me seemed like a group that put a lot of effort in not re-doing reggae from the standard moulds. There's also a very nice 12" (with a great picture sleeve) called »Biko«. Hard rhythm and a nice tribute to Steve Biko. UK styled reggae in the essence.

Who were Merger though? I'm not home so I can't check the sleeves but at least Barry Ford and Mike Dorane were both members. I've got this press photo of the group (came with the Biko 12"). I can't see Dorane in it but Barry Ford is at the far left.