British Lions: The 70s Rock Band That Almost Conquered the World

In the annals of rock history, some bands burn bright and fast, leaving an indelible mark despite their brief existence. British Lions, born from the ashes of Mott, is one such band. As Think Like A Key Music prepares to reissue their debut album, we take a look back at the roar that almost shook the foundations of 70s rock.

When Mott Met Medicine Head

It was 1976, and the rock world was changing. Punk was on the rise, and many established acts were struggling to find their footing. For the remaining members of Mott, the departure of vocalist Nigel Benjamin could have been the final nail in the coffin. Instead, it became the catalyst for one of rock's most intriguing what-ifs.

Enter John Fiddler, fresh from the disbandment of Medicine Head. His arrival was like a shot of adrenaline to the heart of the former Mott members. "It was like finding the missing piece of a puzzle we didn't know we were solving," an unnamed band member once recalled.

Two Weeks That Shook the Studio

In an era when some bands spent months or even years crafting albums, British Lions recorded their debut in a mere two weeks. This breakneck pace infused their self-titled album with a raw energy that captured the essence of late 70s rock.

Released in February 1978, the album was a sonic time capsule, preserving the moment when the polish of glam rock collided with the grit of the emerging punk scene. Tracks like "One More Chance to Run" and "Wild in the Streets" showcased a band that could have been contenders in the changing rock landscape.

Touring with Titans

British Lions quickly found themselves in illustrious company, sharing stages with the likes of Status Quo, AC/DC, and Blue Oyster Cult. These tours were a baptism of fire, honing their live performance into a formidable force.

"Opening for AC/DC was like trying to outrun a freight train," Fiddler later quipped. "But we gave as good as we got."

The Lion's Last Roar

Despite their promising start, British Lions' journey was cut short. Internal tensions, health issues, and disagreements over promotion led to their disbandment in April 1979, barely a year after their debut hit the shelves.

"It was like watching a star go supernova," a contemporary journalist wrote. "Brilliant, but over far too soon."

A Legacy Reborn

Now, over four decades later, Think Like A Key Music is set to reintroduce British Lions to a new generation. The November 2023 reissue of their debut album isn't just a nostalgia trip—it's a chance to reassess a band that could have been contenders.

Remastered by the enigmatically named Prof. Stoned, the expanded edition includes several bonus tracks and a full live performance from their 1978 American tour. This San Francisco show at the Old Waldorf captures the band at the height of their powers, a tantalizing glimpse of what might have been.

The Road Not Rocked

In an alternate universe, British Lions might have been headlining stadiums instead of fading into rock's footnotes. But perhaps their brief, brilliant flash is what makes their story so compelling.

As we revisit their music in 2023, we're reminded that in rock 'n' roll, longevity isn't everything. Sometimes, it's about capturing a moment, about being the right band at the right time—even if that time is all too brief.

British Lions may not have conquered the world, but for a moment, they had it in their sights. And sometimes, that's rock 'n' roll enough.