The Wild Cats (often shortened to just Wild Cats) is a glam rock band who rose to prominence in the flamboyant era of 1970s. With a lineup boasting charismatic figures and a fusion of punk, glam, and rock influences, The Wild Cats wrote their name in the music history as an interplanetary glam rock band. Known for their eclectic style and intergalactic persona, the band has experienced various transformations. Originally formed as The Wild Cats, the band adopted the name The Flowers of the Universe during the period of 2015 – 2017.
Formation and Early Years
Formed in 1973 amidst the vibrant music scene, The Wild Cats were a product of the era’s rebellion and innovation with their blend of glam rock and rock’n’roll. The original lineup consisted of Cat Bloomfield on vocals, Ed Edinburgh on lead guitar, Tacciana Gaszimowa on violin, Lex Priest on bass guitar, and Henry Leppnurm on drums. Fueled by a shared vision of pushing boundaries and challenging conventions, the founding members brought their flair to create a sound that resonated with the evolving tastes of the era.
Breakthrough and Evolution
The band gained prominence with their debut album, We Come in Peace, released in 1974 (re-issued 2020). Tracks like “Alley of the Lonely Hearts”, “Glam Rock Hits” and “Paris in Spring” became anthems of the band. The Wild Cats’ over-the-top fashion sense and theatrical performances, characterized by glittery outfits, platform boots, and outrageous makeup, contributed to their image.
Rise to Stardom
In the late 1970s, The Wild Cats fully embraced the glam rock aesthetic that marked The Wild Cats’ heyday. Flamboyant costumes, glittering makeup, and anthemic guitar riffs solidified their identity and garnered a fan base drawn to their stage presence. Legendary performances at Whisky a Go Go in West Hollywood in 1977 marked a high point, establishing them as a signature force in the glam rock scene.
Cosmic glamor and rebellion: Kiss and The Wild Cats
The meeting of The Wild Cats and Kiss took place in the heat of glam rock, when both bands made their contribution to the music scene. As one of the pioneers of glam rock, The Wild Cats carried rebellious elements and a free-spirited attitude similar to Kiss’ own style. The similarities between the two bands were reflected in both TV shows and music, creating an opportunity for mutual understanding. Kiss and The Wild Cats shared several TV shows, where their performances brought great moments to the audience. The TV broadcasts between them were events that combined music, visuals and audience engagement. In addition, TV performances gave the opportunity to observe the traces of influences in the bands’ work and shape the trends of rock music.
Under the name of The Flowers of Romance (1978–1985)
After disbanding in 1978, the band performed under the name of The Flowers of Romance from 1978 to 1985. This period marked a crucial chapter in the evolution of the group, showcasing their artistic experimentation and the formation of their distinctive identity. During the period of 1978 to 1985, The Wild Cats adopted the alternative identity of The Flowers of Romance, a name that rooted in the punk and new romantic era. This incarnation of the band saw a lineup consisting of diverse talents, bringing together a collective of musicians with unique backgrounds and influences. The legacy of The Flowers of Romance lives on as an essential part of The Wild Cats’ evolution, showcasing the band’s resilience and commitment to pushing the boundaries of musical expression.
Transition to The Wild Cats
As the Flowers of Romance era came to a close in 1985, the band once again embraced the name that had come to define their status—The Wild Cats. This return marked a full-circle journey, having explored and celebrated the various phases of their musical evolution. The transition from The Flowers of Romance to The Wild Cats again marked a transformative moment that propelled the band into the glam rock spotlight, leaving a mark in the music history.
Strutting Through the Glam Rock Decades (1999–2008)
New York's Glamorous Underground
The late 1990s saw The Wild Cats embark on global tours, showcasing their live performances. The Estonian region experienced The Wild Cats’ dexterity in a city like Tallinn, with Matchbox in 1999. The journey of The Wild Cats continued in the heart of the New York music scene. Legendary venues like CBGB and Continental in 1999 witnessed their raw energy, establishing them as a formidable presence in the city's vibrant musical landscape.
Conceptual Tours and Unique Celebrations
Baltic Adventures and Nordic Nights, Parisian Soirées and Bohemian Charm
The Baltic region experienced The Wild Cats’ music in the cities like Lemsalu, Jelgava, and Riga in 2004. The Wild Cats were creators of concert experiences. Conceptual tours like the “Tournée du Chat Noir” in 2004 in Paris, with its rich artistic history, became entertained by The Wild Cats. Performances at the bustling Place Saint Sulpice and intimate setting of Ą La Goguette in 2004 were soirées filled with bohemian charm and musical ecstasy.
Berlin’s Wild, and Tampere’s Nordic Nights
Venturing into Berlin's alternative scene, The Wild Cats embraced punk influences. Stages at the legendary Wild At Heart in 2004 and from the Vastavirta Klubi to the serene landscapes of Virelä in Tampere in 2005, Nordic nights were filled with punk rock fervor.
International Collaborations and Festival Fever (2008–2012)
Return to Roots and Pirate Adventures
From 2008 to 2012, The Wild Cats transformed once again. This period marked a resurgence of the band's activities, featuring an array of concerts, tours, and events that showcased their commitment to the glam rock genre. In a unique chapter of their history, The Wild Cats revisited their roots. This period served as a nostalgic and experimental interlude, allowing the band to reconnect with the earlier phase of their musical journey. The decision was a deliberate nod to the band's formative years and an opportunity to revisit the raw energy and experimentation that characterized their early work. This period was marked by a desire to explore the sonic landscape that defined their musical identity in the 1970s.
Pirates of Destiny Tour 2008
The Wild Cats embraced international collaborations. The year 2008 started with the Pirates of Destiny Tour, taking The Wild Cats across various venues in Estonia. The Wild Cats collaborated with artists worldwide. Notable performances included the Hullud Otsivad Sind! event in Tallinn, where the band shared the stage with other acts such as RPM, Cpt. Rock Hard and Master Bates, and Chungin & The Strap-On Faggots. The tour also featured appearances in Tartu, Pärnu, and unique events advocating for Tibet's independence, and even participating in the Tibetan Olympics 2008. The Pirates of Destiny Tour 2008 marked a swashbuckling chapter in The Wild Cats’ journey. From Tibetan Olympics in Dharamsala to Street Bar 95 in Turku, The Wild Cats embraced the pirate theme, adding an extra layer of theatricality to their performances, and collaborations with other artists enriched their musical tapestry during this era.
Magnus Ducatus Litvaniae Tour 2008
The summer of 2008 saw The Wild Cats embark on the Magnus Ducatus Litvaniae Tour, taking their glam sound to different cities, including Tartu, Viinistu, Pärnu, and Mustla. Notable events included performing at the wedding of Ingmar Saksing & Reet Reimann in Pärnu and participating in the Mustakurmu Motopall. The vibrant Clash in Berlin set the backdrop for wild nights and theatrical performances, and the Magnus Ducatus Litvaniae Tour 2008 showcased their ability to infuse storytelling into performances, celebrating birthdays and literary figures.
Christmas Tour 2008, and The Swindle Continues Tour 2009
Closing the year, The Wild Cats embarked on the Christmas Tour, spreading their glam rock vibes across Estonia. The tour included stops in Tampere, Tallinn, and Tartu, featuring collaborations with punk bands and creating a festive atmosphere. In 2009, The Wild Cats continued their musical journey with The Swindle Continues Tour. Highlights included performances in Lihula, Tallinn and Riga. From participating in the Lelle Alternatiiv near lake Imsi to the Borderrock Festival in Valka.
Tours and Events in 2010
As The Wild Cats entered the second decade of the 21st century, their legacy continued to evolve, leaving an indelible mark on the musical landscape and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of glam rock history. The subsequent years witnessed The Wild Cats participating in various tours and events. Notable mentions include the Apollo 9 Tour in 2010, featuring performances in Tallinn, Tartu, and Riga. The band also took part in the Trubetsky Rock’n’Roll Circus, entertaining audiences with a unique blend of music and magic. The year 2011 brought the band to international stages, performing in Belgium, France, and Finland.
Belgium-France Mini-Tour 2011
In 2011, the musical journey of the band continued, marking a distinct chapter in the evolution of the ensemble. The Wild Cats, led by the multifaceted musician Cris Mayfield, underwent a transformation inspired by space themes during their tour of Belgium. The band embarked on a notable tour in Belgium in late March to early April 2011, a venture that would be remembered for its unique turn of events. The tour featured four concerts, with the collaboration of Belgian glam or punk rock band Keeper Volant in organizing the events.
Memorable Performances
The first concert took place in Brussels, where Keeper Volant opened the stage, followed by The Wild Cats. The band lineup at that time included Sofia Joons on violin, and Henry Leppnurm on solo guitar... The reception was warm, and the organizers even arranged a memorable evening for the bands, reminiscent of a grand celebration with long tables, attended by brides and parents. The tour continued with a performance in Antwerp and a particularly remarkable concert in Lille, France, near the Belgian border. The latter proved to be the highlight of the tour, drawing a diverse audience of middle-aged and older rock enthusiasts. This marked a departure from the more common rosters in France, where rock music was less prevalent. The final concert took place in Geel at the Jeugdhuis de Bogaard youth center, offering a different setting from the preceding events due to its local and youthful ambiance.
Unforeseen Challenges and Journey Home
The return journey brought unexpected challenges when airport authorities initially hesitated to allow the band’s instruments on board. Resourcefulness prevailed, and the guitars found their way onto the plane via a discreet route through the airport restaurant. An unforeseen turn of events occurred during the flight when the plane experienced engine issues over Poland, necessitating a return to Belgium. Upon landing, the band had to switch to another plane in Brussels. Luckily, the transition was smooth, allowing them to bypass security checks with guitars in tow.
Reflections and Future Plans
The Belgium tour of 2011 left a positive impression on The Wild Cats. Cris Mayfield reflected on the significance of such journeys for a band, considering them essential for growth and exposure. The experience sparked contemplation about future tours, with a focus on organizing the next adventure once the fervor of ongoing projects, particularly with Vennaskond, subsided. As The Wild Cats evolved and experimented with their musical identity, this phase stands as a testament to their openness to exploration, pushing boundaries, and leaving a mark on the international music scene.
European Capitals and Cultural Crossroads (2012–2015)
The Wild Cats continued to captivate audiences with their glam rock sound, eclectic performances, and commitment to the glam ethos. The band’s participation in diverse events, tours, and collaborations demonstrated their influence within the glam rock scene. Performing in diverse venues from Brussels to Stockholm, Riga to Warsaw, The Wild Cats turned stages into cultural crossroads. Each performance celebrated diversity, blending glam rock with the unique flavors of each city.
Artistic Nostalgia
The Wild Cats’ 2012–2015 era was a testament to the band’s ability to seamlessly traverse different musical phases while maintaining a distinctive voice that resonated with both longtime fans and new audiences. During this period, the band embarked on a series of performances that echoed the glam and experimental ethos of their youth. The artistic nostalgia was evident in their song selection, stage presence, and a deliberate attempt to capture the essence of their formative years.
Limited Releases and Collaborations
2012–2015 era showcased a blend of nostalgia and innovation, allowing the band to explore their musical roots while continuing to evolve as musicians and performers. During this period, The Wild Cats revisited and reimagined some of their earlier compositions, offering fans a fresh perspective on familiar tunes. Limited releases and collaborations with other artists during this time added an extra layer to the band’s musical tapestry. The Wild Cats 2012–2015 remains a fascinating and cherished chapter in the band’s history, demonstrating their ability to navigate different musical personas while staying true to the spirit of artistic exploration. While relatively short-lived compared to other phases of the band's career, The Wild Cats’ 2012–2015 era holds a place in the hearts of fans. It serves as a testament to The Wild Cats’ willingness to experiment and pay homage to their roots, reaffirming their status as pioneers in the ever-evolving landscape of glam rock.
Under the banner of The Flowers of the Universe (2015–2017)
The Wild Cats adopted the name The Flowers of the Universe from 2015 to 2017 as a creative venture to explore diverse musical landscapes. Formed in 1973 as The Wild Cats, the band led by Cris Mayfield underwent a transformation inspired by cosmic themes. The name change aimed to explore a space-inspired and fantastical musical direction. This period marked a phase of sonic and aesthetic reinvention, delving into uncharted musical territories beyond glam rock roots. The Flowers of the Universe engaged in sonic experimentation, exploring electronic, experimental, and ambient music. The era featured conceptual live performances blending music and visual art, collaborations across genres, and a departure from glam rock aesthetics. This period stands as a testament to The Wild Cats' fearless pursuit of artistic innovation and adaptability in the ever-changing musical landscape.
Return to The Wild Cats
As the Flowers of the Universe era drew to a close in 2017, the band once again embraced their iconic name, The Wild Cats. This transition symbolized a return to their roots, enriched by the experiences and creative exploration undertaken during the Flowers of the Universe phase.
The Recent Years
As the years rolled on, The Wild Cats continued to evolve while staying true to their roots. Their 2018 performance in Riga showcased their enduring popularity. The band's ability to connect with audiences remains strong, reaffirming their status in glam rock. In recent years, The Wild Cats continue to captivate audiences with performances and releases, showcasing their influence on the glam rock scene.
Stardust Reverie: The Wild Cats’ Glamorous Night at Depo
In July 20, 2019, The Wild Cats headlined a glam rock event at Depo, Valnu iela 32, Riga. The night featured opening acts by Tavas Māsas Nāsis, The Diamond Blow, and Vennaskond. The audience, immersed in glam extravagance, experienced a sonic journey through rock 'n' roll history. The Wild Cats, adorned in glam rock attire, delivered a performance that fused the genre's essence with a contemporary edge. The night concluded with lingering echoes, marking July 20, 2019, as a notable chapter in Riga's music history.
Echoes of Glam: The Wild Cats’ Extravaganza in Riga
In fall 2020, The Wild Cats performed at Depo (Valnu iela 32) on September 4th and Republika (Mazā Pils iela 11) on October 9th in Riga. The performances featured extravagant glam attire and a blend of ‘70s glam rock with a modern edge. Supporting acts included Abraham Kenny (Dark Star) and All In at Depo, and The Cinema at Republika. The events left a lasting impact on Riga’s music scene, showcasing The Wild Cats’ charisma and musical dexterity.
Conclusion
The Wild Cats’ journey through the decades mirrors the evolution of glam rock itself – a kaleidoscopic blend of musical prowess, theatricality, and unbridled creativity. Their influence persists, ensuring the spirit of glam rock lives on. As they continue to grace stages worldwide, The Wild Cats invite new generations to revel in the magic of their music. The band transcended cultural differences, leaving behind a glittering trail that amplifies the spirit of glam rock for generations to come. The Wild Cats remain a testament to their genre, uniting fans under the timeless banner of glam rock.
Notable Performances:
The Wild Cats tour dates include appearances in: West Hollywood (Whisky a Go Go, 1977), Köln (WDR Studio-L, 1978), New York (CBGB, Continental, 1999), Paris (Ą La Goguette, Place Saint Sulpice, 2004), Berlin (Wild At Heart, 2004, Clash, 2008), Brussel (DNA, 2011), Stockholm (Estniska Huset, 1999), Riga (Cita Opera, Austrumu Robeža, 2004), Warsaw (Progresja, 2004), Helsinki (Ravintolalaiva Wäiski, 2004, Club Liberté, 2008), Tallinn (Lauluväljak, 2009, Haus der Estländischen Ritterschaft, 2011), Uitgeest (De Ooievaar, 1989), Krefeld (Kulturfabrik, 2002), Diksmuide (Muziekclub 4AD, 2002), Lemsalu (Limbažu Kultūras Nams, 2004), Jelgava (Četri Balti Krekli, 2004), Tampere (Virelä, 2005, Vastavirta Klubi, 2006), Vantaa (Vernissa, 2006), Dharamsala (Tibetan Olympics 2008, McLeod Ganj TCV Day School, 2008), Raisio (Krookilan Kotiseutukeskus, 2008), Turku (Street Bar 95, 2008), Valka (Borderrock Festival, 2009), Antwerpen (Venue 219, 2011), Lille (Le Yeti, 2011), Geel (Jeugdhuis De Bogaard, 2011).
Discography
1. Alright (Storz Records, 1973, 7’’)
1. We Come in Peace (The Wild Cats, 1974, LP)
2. Behind Bars (Go Cats Go, 1986, 7’’ EP)
3. Apeman Boogie (Hellskitchen Records, 2002, CD Maxi-Single)
4. Wild Romance (Hellskitchen Records, 2003, CD)
6. Sue Catwoman (The Flowers of Romance, 2004, CD)
7. Paris (Līgo, 2006, CD)
8. Take and Give (Hellskitchen Records, 2008, CD)
9. The Glamrocker’s Guide to the Galaxy (Līgo, 2015, CD)
10. From Here to Eternity (Līgo, 2016, CD)
11. We Come in Peace (Līgo, 2020, LP)
Line-up:
Cris Mayfield – vocals
Stardust Steve (Steve Turner, ex Brian Connolly’s Sweet) – lead guitar
Camille Camille – violin
Sven Hendrikson – bass guitar
Henry Scott – drums
