The Power of IQ

A band of supreme intelligence

IQ is a neo-prog band founded by guitarist,Mike Holmes, and keyboardist, Martin Orford, in 1981. They were one of a wave of British bands formed at that time including Marillion, Twelfth Night, Pendragon, Pallas and Solstice, to continue the tradition of progressive rock from the previous decade. Although IQ’s early albums had shades of early Genesis, especially in the vocal delivery and grandiose keyboards, they were always much more than just derivative, and continued to forge their own unique style.

From 1982 the line-up consisted of Peter Nichols (vocals), Mike Holmes (guitar), Martin Orford (keyboards), Paul Cook (drums) and Tim Esau (bass).

Despite a number of dizzying line-up changes the band has continued to this day, still releasing album masterpieces.

Their debut album, Tale From the Lush Attic (1983) included a 20 minute epic The Last Human Gateway that became a blueprint for many of the epic pieces that have followed.

The Wake (1985) remains one of their classic albums and fan favourites. Following the release of this album, Peter Nichols left to be replaced by Paul Menel. During this period, until Nichols’s return in 1990 the band followed a more commercial, pop sound. However with Nichol’s return they returned to their prog roots releasing Ever In…