The Scalextrics were started in Feb 2010 by Darren Jackson after years of playing in originals bands. Though many genuine musicians prefer to perform their own material, this group was originally formed specifically to play 70's/80's Punk and new wave tracks, although we are now playing a varied mix of music from all genres. Up until the point of forming The Scalextrics, Darren had been writing, drumming and singing lead vocals in "The Submarines". Before this he had played along side Paul Fox (RIP The Ruts guitarist) during the mid 90's in a band called "Fluffy Kitten" later leaving to form "The Phobics" who are still in existence and currently playing in North/South London. Original Scalextrics bass player Dan Reene joined up with Darren after calling time with "The Whisky Mystics" and power trio "Panic". Dan and Darren both from Kent continued to rehearse until they were eventually joined by rhythm/lead guitarist Neil Warner from Surrey (Neil is currently back playing rhythm guitar with his old band The Water Pistols).
The first Scalextrics line up was finally completed when lead/rhythm guitarist "Richard McGrand" joined after a lengthy rehearsal session in June. Richard also from Kent has many years experience playing and writing in a previous Post Punk/New Wave band called " Torture Garden", later leaving to play as lead guitarist in "The Submarines". The Scalextrics band has since gone through various changes in the line-up including a spell with ex bass player Charlie from London psychedelic punk band "Suicide Milkshake" and "The Submarines", also Bass player John Timoney and Robert Driscoll on guitar/vocals. Charlie still makes the odd appearance although the current Scalextrics line up now consists of Scottish Bass player Jon Smith and Singer/Guitarist Gary Harris on vocals and rhythm guitar. The group have a unique sound and style covering many bands from the 60's, 70's, 80's including The Pixies, The Stranglers, The Buzzcocks, Cream, The Clash, Supergrass, The Rolling Stones, David Bowie, Magazine, Talking Heads, Ian Dury, XTC, The Jam to name but a few… Individually within the band there are many, many years of experience and talent, but we also realise that you have to establish yourselves to build a strong reputation on the live circuit and we aim to do that by playing great music to anyone who wants to come and listen!