"Cruze " 1979 - 1981 Cruze was an iconic band in the Dunedin and New Zealand pub circuit scene from the mid 70s to early 80s. Generally unheralded against the fledgling alternative "Dunedin sound" of the time, Cruze built a reputation as a top-class rock cover band. Formed by guitar mates Chris Davies and Barry McConnachie in the mid 70s from bands Layback, Willie`s Rats, Argus and Biggles (some of the forerunners to Mother Goose), the initial line-up included Neil Henderson on bass and Graham (Gizmo) Moore on drums...(Information and pictures C/- ricko.co.nz NZ Circuit Bands and Musicians)
Cruze was a regular fixture at the Dunedin live-music meccas of the time, The Captain Cook and Gardens taverns as well as university hops and balls. After a couple of years, Giz moved out of town, and was replaced by Barry Blackler on drums. At the end of 1978, following completion of tertiary studies, Cruze underwent a revamp with Neil dropping out to be replaced by Robin Murphy on bass and Brian Seque taking on vocal duties. This line-up `took to the road...(Information and pictures C/- ricko.co.nz NZ Circuit Bands and Musicians)
Within a few months, Gizmo Moore was welcomed back onto the drummer`s stool and it was this line-up of Brian, Chris, Barry, Giz and Robin that quickly established itself as one of the top pub bands of the time throughout New Zealand. For the following three years, Cruze toured the New Zealand pub circuit, initially under the management of NZ Breweries, then Hamilton based tour promoter Chris Cole. Bands such as The Dudes, Street Talk and Pop Mechanics may`ve had the recording releases and profiles of the era, but the largely rock-covers sound of Cruze was constantly packing out venues and creating attendance records at the top New Zealand circuit venues of the time...(Information and pictures C/- ricko.co.nz NZ Circuit Bands and Musicians)
Cruze did start writing and performing original songs, and a couple were even recorded, but it was the energetic live performances and twin lead guitar classic-rock sound that characterised the band...(Information and pictures C/- ricko.co.nz NZ Circuit Bands and Musicians)
Decision time came in late 1981, shift to Australia and effectively start over again, leaving the steady income and fan base security of NZ, or ? The decision was made to return to Dunedin and careers. The "rock`n roll life" was over for some, but not before a residency at Dunedin`s Shoreline Hotel, where old friend, guitarist Jimmy Taylor, became a regular member.
Some members did spawn short-lived touring bands, such as Rejectz and NZ Landing Party, and most members still perform to this day in one form or another. Cruze have not played together formally since disbanding, although members retain the friendships and camaraderie built up at the time and catch up regularly when opportunities arise.
Toured NZ extensively 1979, 80, 81.Initially under the management of Lance Kinraid (Nelson) alongside NZ Breweries, then by Chris Cole and Paul Walker (Sth Pacific Music) from Hamilton and then Chris Cole alone. 