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The Australian group Big Pig made a memorable first impression in 1988 with the belligerent percussion and incendiary vocals of their only U.S. hit, "Breakaway." Big Pig was noted for their fashion sense as well, wearing leather aprons that gave them a unique look. Formed in Melbourne, Australia, in 1986, Big Pig was comprised of Oleh Witer (vocals, percussion), Sherine Abeyratne (vocals, percussion), Tony Antonaides (vocals, harmonica), Tim Rosewarne (vocals, keyboards), Neil Baker (drums), Adrian Scaglione (drums), and Nick Disbray (vocals, percussion). Witer, Sherine, and Rosewarne were originally in the band Bang; however, Witer wanted an edgier, more experimental sound that also retained Bang's funky rhythms. In 1986, Big Pig released a self-titled EP; it was later distributed by Australia's Mushroom label with bonus dance mixes of "Hungry Town" and "Money God." "Hungry Town" reached number 14 on the Australian charts, and it was also included on the Young Einstein soundtrack. The group started recording their debut LP Bonk in 1987 with producer Nick Launay. The album was released in America by A&M Records in 1988, and the eye-popping video for "Breakaway" was played on MTV. The song also landed at number four in Australia. "Breakaway" then reappeared on the Bill & Ted's Excellent Adventure soundtrack. Despite the support -- and inevitable hype -- Big Pig received because of "Breakaway," they had already vanished from the U.S. airwaves by the time their second album, You Lucky People, was released in 1990. Big Pig toured and then ceased recording. ~ Michael Sutton, All Music Guide |
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