1.17.10: Spacehog live @ Harper's Ferry

Oh boy! Before I break out in a spirited wooo-ooohhhhh-a-ooh-oooohhhhh-oooh-ohhhh-oooooh, let's just note that leftover Britpop casualties Spacehog hits Allston's Harper's Ferry next month, Jan. 17. Tickets are a billion dollars ($15) but that's okay. In the meantime (lulz), let's take a look back at their glory moment, and a bio from the venue is below for educational purposes... and yes, it does mention Liv Tyler.



The rock band Spacehog was founded in New York City in 1994 although all members of the band were originally from Leeds, England. Members included Royston Langdon (bass and vocals), brother Antony Langdon (guitar and vocals), Richard Steel (guitar), and Jonny Cragg (drums).

Heavily influenced by David Bowie and Queen, Spacehog signed with Sire Records in 1994. Their debut album, Resident Alien, was released in late 1995 and went gold on the Billboard charts, selling over half a million copies. The album had a hit single and video “In the Meantime” as well as the single “Cruel to be Kind.” “In the Meantime” was also selected as the background music for the BBC’s Match of the Day football program.

The band’s second album, The Chinese Album was released in 1998, but not to as much popularity as their first. However, their fan base increased as they opened for acts like Pearl Jam and Supergrass. Spacehog’s third album, The Hogyssey released in 2001 on Artemis Records. This album featured such singles as “I Want to Live” and “At Least I Got Laid” as well as a funk version of Richard Strauss’ “Also spach Zarathustra.” During the promotion of this album, Spacehog joined The Black Crowes and Oasis on the Tour of Brotherly Love, which proved to be their final tour.

In 2002, the band quietly broke up and went their separate ways. Royston married Liv Tyler in 2003 and teamed up with former Blind Melon members Roger Stevens and Rene Lopez to form the band, The Quick, later renamed The Tender Trio. This band broke up in 2006.

The Langdon brothers, along with another – Christian – form Arckid and recorded eight songs at Trout Studios in Brooklyn. Jonny Cragg later joined this new band as well. Antony left Arckid to pursue other interests – including an homage to his wife, Victoria, and an album with Joaquin Phoenix.

Antony was briefly replaced by guitarist Mat Steel and Pete Denton, but both ended up leaving the band. Arckid performed at the Hilfiger Sessions NY and in the 2007 Lollapalooza shows.