Del Amitri were one of the most popular Scottish rock bands of the 1980s and 1990s. Formed in Glasgow in 1982, the band enjoyed a string of hit singles and albums before splitting up in 2002. Now, over 20 years later, where are the former members of Del Amitri and what are they up to today?
The Early Days
Del Amitri formed in Glasgow in 1982 out of an earlier band called Del Amitri & The Assisters. The original lineup consisted of Justin Currie on vocals and bass, Iain Harvie on guitar, Bryan Tolland on drums, and Andy Alston on keyboards. After releasing a few singles and EPs in the early 80s, Alston left and was replaced by David Cummings on violin and keyboards. In 1985 the band signed to Chrysalis Records and released their self-titled debut album Del Amitri. The album did not generate much commercial success.
In 1987, Del Amitri released their second studio album Waking Hours. It included the singles “Kiss This Thing Goodbye” and “Stone Cold Sober”, but again did not make a significant impact on the charts. However, the band started to gain attention for their live shows and soon built up a devoted fanbase.
Mainstream Success
Del Amitri’s breakthrough came with their third album Change Everything in 1989. It reached #2 on the UK album charts, achieving triple platinum status. The upbeat pop-rock single “Nothing Ever Happens” became their first top 10 hit. Following this success, Tolland left Del Amitri and was replaced on drums by Ashley Soan.
In 1992, Del Amitri released their fourth studio album, Should’ve Been Hours. It featured their most popular single “Always the Last to Know”, which peaked at #3 on the UK singles chart. The band had now achieved mainstream success both at home and internationally.
Their fifth album, Twisted in 1995, continued their winning streak with several hit singles including “Roll to Me” and “Tell Her This”. The album went to #1 on the UK charts and established Del Amitri as one of the leading British bands of the 90s.
Later Career
Following the height of their fame, Del Amitri’s subsequent albums did not achieve the same level of mainstream success, despite still producing some great songs. Some Change in 1997 saw a shift to a more folk/rock sound. 2002’s Can You Do Me Good? would prove to be Del Amitri’s final studio album. While failing to make a dent on the charts, it was still positively received by critics. Shortly after its release, the band announced an indefinite hiatus.
Where Are They Now?
So what happened to the members of Del Amitri after the split, and where are they now?
Justin Currie
Lead singer and songwriter Justin Currie has remained the most active musically since Del Amitri’s breakup. He has released six solo albums between 2003 and 2017, often collaborating with former Del Amitri members. His solo work has allowed Currie to explore a more alt-country direction compared to Del Amitri’s pop-rock style. While not achieving the same level of mainstream success, Currie has received praise for his songwriting and continues to tour and record new music as a solo artist.
Iain Harvie
Guitarist Iain Harvie collaborated with Currie on several solo projects in the 2000s. He also formed the band The Lonely Together with singer-songwriter Willie Campbell, releasing an album in 2008. In addition to occasional production and session work, Harvie served as co-manager for the Scottish indie pop band The Kokomo Club. He continues to be involved in the Scottish music scene and perform live shows with Currie and other artists.
Other Members
Founding drummer Bryan Tolland left Del Amitri in 1990 to focus on his gardening business. He tragically passed away in 1995 at just 35 years old. Tolland’s replacement on drums, Ashley Soan, has been a session and touring musician for many major artists. He also released some solo instrumental music. Violinist David Cummings returned to his career in medicine after leaving Del Amitri in the 1990s.
Reunions
The former members of Del Amitri have reunited on a few occasions over the years. In 2002, the band played a comeback show supporting charity Children in Need. The original lineup got back together in 2013 for BBC Radio 2’s “The Organ Night”. There was also a mini reunion tour in 2017 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Change Everything, featuring Currie, Harvie and other longtime members. However, there are currently no plans for Del Amitri to permanently get back together and record a new album.
Legacy
Although their success was mostly confined to the UK and they did not maintain it for long, Del Amitri’s impressive pop chops and knack for catchy songwriting has left a lasting legacy. Their singles from the late 80s to mid 90s remain popular on radio playlists. While the former members have gone their separate ways musically, Del Amitri’s back catalogue continues to find new fans even today.
Conclusion
To summarize where the members of Del Amitri are now in 2023:
- Justin Currie continues a successful solo career as singer-songwriter
- Iain Harvie still involved in music as session player and producer
- Other members pursued careers outside music or occasional side projects
- Some brief reunions but no plans currently for a permanent Del Amitri reunion
- Their songs still remembered fondly and get airplay decades later
While their heyday was short-lived, Del Amitri made their mark in the 90s alternative rock scene and are fondly looked back upon as an iconic band of that era. Though mostly pursuing separate careers now, the music and legacy of Del Amitri lives on.