Stewart Copeland is a hell of a guy. He was one of the most progressive rock drummers in the 70’s and the 80’s, with a solid jazz knowledge. There is an interview in which he stated that he and the rest of The Police had to fake that they play bad because of the whole punk atmosphere in those times when good musicians were considered pretentious. However, he remains one of the most original drummers ever. His passion for music never seized to push Copeland into new uncharted territories. After his venture with The Police, which elevated all of them to stardom, Copeland went on a journey to Africa to explore the roots of rhythm. When he returned to the West, in 1988 he met Stanley Clarke and thus begun their long-term collaboration. After a while, vocalist-songwriter Deborah Holland joined, and the band Animal Logic was officially formed. Copeland's former bandmate in The Police, guitarist Andy Summers, was also a member of the group in its initial stages when it was known as "Rush Hour," but left following a short Brazilian tour in late 1987 before the recording of the first album. Subsequently, Michael Thompson was called upon at the last minute to record guitar parts, leading to him touring with the band as a supporting player. Rusty Anderson, later the lead guitarist for Paul McCartney, also recorded and toured with the group. Neither Thompson nor Anderson was full-fledged band members. In 1989 Animal Logic released their eponymous debut record, followed by promotional live dates. The tour put Stewart back on stage, playing drums in front of large, enthusiastic crowds. Although the success of these initial efforts prompted Animal Logic to record “Animal Logic II,” no supporting concert tour followed and, as a result, there would be no other releases in the future. The group disbanded in late 199, although Copeland and Clarke continued their collaboration in the years to come. In 2013, Copeland, Clarke & Holland got together (as Animal Logic) and recorded a new track called “Whipping Boy,” as part of Copeland's all-star jam sessions at the Sacred Grove, for which I’ll be writing a separate article soon. In the meantime enjoy the comeback of one of the most obscure bands made up of legends.
