Mantis

Websites:  No
Origin: Montréal, Québec, 🇨🇦
Biography:

In 1973, Mantis unveiled their self-titled debut album on Sweet Plum Records. The band's guitarist, Mark Bajona, now 70 and residing in Sault Ste Marie, Ontario, recollects auditioning at a Toronto club at the age of 19. Successfully passing the test amid numerous auditions, he was flown to Montreal for rehearsals before returning to Toronto to record tracks like 'Eyes of Fire' and 'Fred' at RCA Studios on Mutual Street. Collaborating with musicians Moe Koffman and Guido Basso for orchestrated segments, Martin Swerdlow conducted the orchestra. The band performed at various venues in Montreal, including 'The Moustache,' and in Toronto. Unfortunately, the band disbanded shortly thereafter, and Mark heard that Christine was unwell. That marked the end of his connection with Mantis, as he never crossed paths with the other members again.

Embarking on diverse projects, Mark moved away from progressive music. He later joined The Start, contributing to the album 'Hey You.' For this project, Mark adopted the last name Valdez in honor of his late father, a dance instructor at Arthur Murray's dance studio. Mark maintains his own website at http://www.louderthanthemusic.com/product.php?id=4557.
-Robert Williston

The album was uncredited, however Mark has confirmed the following lineup:
Rick Elger: vocals, harmonica
Christine Williams: vocals
Mark Bajona (The Start): guitars
Philip Aker: bass
Daniel Hutchison: drums
Martin Swerdlow: synthesizer, keyboards