Bernie Tormé’s Kerrap: A Relic from Rock’s Fringe

Bernie Tormé, renowned for his standout guitar work with Ian Gillan on the 1979 album *Mr Universe*, left a lasting mark in the rock world. Though his later affiliations included stints with Ozzy Osbourne and Dee Snider of Twisted Sister, Tormé’s own band never quite reached the same legendary status. Sadly, Tormé, who passed away in 2019, remains less of a household name and more a niche figure in rock history.

The new five-CD set, which focuses on Tormé’s band, offers a comprehensive look at their work, including albums like *Back To Babylon*, *Die Pretty Die Young*, *Official Live Bootleg*, and Demolition Ball, along with various demos and live recordings. Despite the extensive collection, the band’s glam-punk style feels outdated, and much of the material—including the otherwise notable track “My Baby Loves A Vampire”—comes across as hastily produced and lacking polish.

Tormé’s band never quite moved beyond the UK’s smaller rock club circuit, and the eccentric sleeve notes elevate gigs at places like Folkestone and Cleethorpes to grandiose proportions. The set includes some curious bonus tracks, such as “Kerrap,” a jab at Kerrang! magazine featuring Phil Lewis on vocals, and a chaotic cover of Cameo’s “Word Up,” further emphasizing the band’s eclectic but ultimately uneven legacy.