Mark, an illustrious personality in the realm of film and television, ventured into uncharted creative territory, partnering with his old school chum Billy Hardwicke to form a musical ensemble. Having shared a passion for music-making with Billy for a considerable amount of time, they finally made the decision to formalize their collaborative efforts by establishing the band Littlehouse, a venture that marked a significant milestone in their artistic journey together.
Mark, an individual of remarkable versatility, showcased his exceptional prowess as an acoustic guitarist, injecting his unique style into the musical equation. Meanwhile, Billy Hardwicke, his counterpart on the electric guitar, brought a distinct set of skills to the table, weaving intricate riffs that added depth and complexity to the overall sound. Both Mark and Billy, gifted vocalists in their own right, joined forces to create a symphony of harmonies, their voices blending in a way that was both beautiful and unexpected. Rounding out the quintet were Patrick Watson, a talented bassist, and Steve Claridge, a drummer with a keen sense of rhythm, together forming a cohesive unit that was greater than the sum of its individual parts.
Mark and Billy, the dynamic duo responsible for penning the majority of the band's repertoire, carefully crafted a collection of original compositions that would serve as the cornerstone of Littlehouse's sonic identity. The inaugural performance of the band at the illustrious Bull & Gate in Kentish town proved to be a pivotal moment, as it was during this gig that they caught the eye of Andrew Maurice, a shrewd and astute music industry professional who would later assume the role of their manager, guiding the band through the complexities of the music world.
Billy Hardwicke's debut EP, which initially gained traction with its lead track "Close My Eyes," would later resurface on his solo album "The Goodbye Look", a testament to the band's early creative endeavors. Littlehouse, comprised of talented musicians, thrived on the London music scene from 1998 to 2000, performing at various venues and establishing a devoted fan base. However, after a successful three-year run, the band members collectively decided to disband, bringing an end to their musical journey together.
Forty years of unwavering camaraderie and artistic synergy between Mark and Billy had reached a remarkable milestone, as the duo, now seasoned veterans of the music industry, continued to collaborate on new projects in 2013, a testament to the unshakeable bond forged between them, their creative partnership remaining as strong and resilient as ever.
