Bursting With Pride
They were favourites at the Marquee and their line-up included a young Steven Wilson, but Pride Of Passion never reached the dizzying heights of their peers. Several decades after their original split, they’re back with a new EP and FM keyboardist Jem Davis in tow. Vocalist Deborah Hopper and bassist Diz Minnitt (formerly of Marillion) discuss their unplanned return, Brink Of The Horizon and future plans.
Words: Rich Wilson
Back from the brink: Pride Of Passion.
New Portraits: Hayda Linley
“Steven [Wilson] was probably about 19 [when he joined Pride Of Passion]. I remember that he was very keen and a hugely creative individual. He really was a unique talent and provided a very positive input into the band at that time.”
Diz Minnitt
It’s been four decades since Pride Of Passion last surfaced, yet they remain fondly recalled by those who were entranced by their frequent gigs at the Marquee. A household name they most certainly aren’t, but the band possessed significant prog credentials back in the mid-80s. Former Marillion colleagues Brian Jelliman and Diz Minnitt were core members, with their sound at one time being augmented by one Steven Wilson on keyboards.
“Steven was probably about 19 [when he joined the band],” recalls bassist Minnitt. “I remember that he was very keen and a hugely creative individual. He really was a unique talent and provided a very positive input into the band at that time.”