The Martells

Some Details...

The Martells were first formed in 1965. Jack Jacobs (Lead Guitar), Roy Williams (Drums) and Spike Hayward (Bass) were with Dave Curtis and the Tremors which disbanded in 1965. They then quickly met up with brother and sister, Rod and Carolyn Braddy and became Rod & Carolyn and The Tremors. Within a few weeks they got a contract with Decca Records who suggested they change their name, so The Martells was chosen. They released a double A side single 'Time to say Goodnight' and 'The Cherry Song'. Just prior to the single being released Spike left and Rod took over Bass duties. During this time a keyboard player called Martin Croxford stood in for Carolyn a few times. In 1970 Roy left and was replaced on Drums by Jonny Peggs. In 1972 he then left and was replaced by Sandy Sutherland.

They decided they needed another guitarist as Carolyn was not able to do all of the gigs so Merv Perry joined and this line up lasted the longest of them all. Jack left for a little while and was replaced firstly by Dave Parnell and then Rex Seeley. A little while later Rod and Carolyn left so Jimmy Dodds then took over on Bass.

The old line up of Rod, Carolyn, Jack, Merv and Sandy got back together for a reunion gig at The Westcliff Theatre with Jimmy Pilgrim and The Classics, and they carried on for about 2 years.