The two began to talk about forming their own band around 1969, and eventually Back Door came to fruition in 1971, with Tony Hicks joining on drums.
Hodgkinson made an innovative use of the electric bass, making it a lead instrument rather than a part of a rhythm section.
[3] Their unique brand of jazz-rock and Hodgkinson's original playing was a hit at their regular venue; the Lion Inn on Blakey Ridge, Yorkshire.
[4] A copy of the record somehow made its way to the NME headquarters[1] in London, and a superb review by Charles Shaar Murray was printed.
After a few more reviews, the band passed an interview, and began playing a regular slot at The Senate in Peterlee, despite Aspery snapping a key off his saxophone moments before the audition.
The band's popularity increased when they were asked to play a two-week stint at Ronnie Scott's club in London, opening for Chick Corea, a run that was eventually lengthened to three weeks.
Warner Brothers duly released the record, and a tour of the United States supporting Emerson, Lake & Palmer followed.
By the time they recorded their third LP, Another Fine Mess, Dave MacRae had joined the band on piano, although he is only credited as a guest on the sleeve notes.
The original line-up briefly reunited for what was initially one night at the Ronnie Scott's 1986, although this was subsequently followed by a short tour of the UK.