The Yo-Yos

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Yo-Yos were a rock n'roll band, formed in 1998 by ex- The Wildhearts bassist, Danny McCormack and singer/ guitarist Tom Spencer (ex- Sugarsnatch/ The Lurkers) after the two met at a Toy Dolls recording session. The Yo-Yo's recruited Andy Selway (Bladz) (ex- Sugarsnatch) on drums & guitarist Neil Phillips (B-Movie Heroes) to the band.

The Yo-Yo's recorded their first single, entitled "Out Of My Mind" & then joined The Backyard Babies for a UK tour. Another single was then recorded, entitled "Rumble(d)." The Yo-Yo's continued to tour the UK & were then signed by US label Sub Pop.

On the Sub Pop label, the Yo-Yo's released their debut album, Uppers & Downers on CD & LP in 2000. Despite gaining a cult following as well favourable coverage from the rock and indie press, they split up do to infighting among members.

Neil Phillips went on to play for Danny Frye & The Devildolls, and also return his concentration to his own B-Movie Heroes.

In 2005 the group reformed with a new lineup that included McCormack and Spencer, along with Rich Jones (Amen, The Black Halos) on guitar the band recorded a new EP entitled "Given Up Giving Up" and successfully toured the UK supporting 3 Colours Red. The EP was initially due for release on Mighty Atom Records but was put out on Undergroove records at the last minute. Ex-Wildhearts drummer Stidi originally took up drumming duties for the band but was replaced last minute before recording began, the job went to Craig Herdman (Cherrykicks). The band finally walked out on McCormack half way through a tour with AntiProduct due to further drug problems. However, Danny completed the tour in defiance, with support band 'Any Given Day' providing a backing band for him to front.

Tom Spencer is currently fronting London based 'The Loyalties' which includes Rich Jones, Craig Herdman and C.C Voltage (The Spitfires). Jones also plays with Bassknives. Danny McCormack is working on his first solo album in South Sheilds. Neil Phillips continues to play with B- Movie Heroes.