We made up the name to get in to see Pete. We told his PA that a Mr Russell Sprout was in reception to see him.

How did Shooting Party get started?

Gary and myself had been in a band called "No Dice" back in the early 80's. We split up the group, when Gary and I decided to go back to a singer/songwriter duo. We named our act after a film at the time.

I know they did a couple of singles before they joined PWL, "I Know That Mood" and "Trick of the Light". Were there any others?

Not at that time.

Why did they leave the Siren label to go to Lisson for their PWL releases?

We recorded about 6 tracks with Siren and released two singles with them of which I was very proud of. We left because they (the label) wanted to turn us into a band again !!

How did they become connected with Harding & Curnow/PWL? Did Shooting Party approach them or vice versa?

Pete put us into the studio with Ian Curnow and Phil Harding who were staff writers/producers then signed to PWL. They would give us backing tracks to take away on the day & we would come back the next day with our ideas. Thats how "Safe In The Arms Of Love" was born.

Was it their idea to cover "Let's Hang On" or was it someone else at PWL's idea?

No it was Pete Waterman and Pete Hammond....they thought it would suit my voice.

Was their ever a Shooting Party album planned? If so, what happened to the unreleased tracks? Did, for example, any of them get used by other acts?

If we had a big hit then we would have gone ahead with an album - we certainly did record quite a few other tracks. Alas, it was not to be!

Did they enjoy working with PWL? Who was their favourite act to work alongside on the roadshows?

I can't speak for Gary, but they were certainly very happy times for me. I met some great people - Sonia stands out as my favourite.

Does Sprout keep in contact with anyone from the PWL days?

I was only on the phone to Ian Curnow the other day and I still see Tilly Rutherford often. Yes, I still see my old mates.

Were both members of Shooting Party involved in the Technique "Tell Me" single on Almighty Records? How did that project and the affiliation with Almighty come about? Would they ever work with Almighty again?

Yes Phil Harding asked me if I would do "Tell Me" and I jumped at the chance. I think it took me about half an hour to sing. Gary was not involved. (Does anyone have a copy)??

Are either of them still involved in the music industry as far as writing or producing for other acts? If not, what made them decide to stop making music?

Once again I can't speak for Gary as I haven't heard from him in years. After PWL, I decided that I'd had my fun & went on to work for Virgin Megastores which I love.

Are Gary & Sprout still in contact?

Sadly not!!!!

Interview conducted 18 May 2001. cafe80s wish to thank Ian Usher and Sprout for their contribution.