What Is This? (known prior to 1980 as Anthym) was a rock band that originated in Fairfax High School in California and would play numerous shows along the coast of California. It was formed by guitarist Hillel Slovak, drummer Jack Irons, vocalist Alain Johannes, and bassist Todd Strassman. Originally named Chain Reaction, the band would later change its name to Anthem, then later to Anthym (as there was already a band using the former moniker), and then finally to What Is This?, which was a tongue-in-cheek reference to the reaction they usually received from first-time listeners.
What Is This's song, "Mind My Have Still I" from their 1984 EP Squeezed, was also featured on the soundtrack to the movie The Wild Life. Their second album, which featured an awesome cover of the Spinners hit "I'll Be Around", was produced by Todd Rundgren, who also played Fairlight Synthesizer on the record. "I'll Be Around" was released as a single and video; it peaked at No. 62 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Pardon the condition of the video as there are some bad tracking and streaks in spots, but it's from a 30 year old, 1985 tape and not all tapes age as well as others and are subject to the elements like the rest of us. I'm very happy it lasted to be transferred and it's one of my personal favorite videos, attached to great memories of the 80's. This indeed was a great find as it was a wonderful cover, produced by one of music's most gifted geniuses, Todd Rundgren. I first saw this on USA Networks' great weekend video program, "Night Flight," that showcased many cutting edge acts.
Where Are They Now?
Former lead singer, Alain Johannes has since lost his curly locks for the clean shaven look but continues to make new music with his signature cigarbox guitar. Alain has several videos found here on YouTube, has both a Facebook and Twitter page along with his own website http://www.alainjohannes.com/ where you can get the latest news on his new and upcoming releases, live concerts, purchase his solo music and join his mailing list.
External References:
What Is It? on American Bandstand - https://youtu.be/wtZrqPm9Ppo
Band background info courtesy of Wikipedia.
Original title:
Songwriters
Gallagher, Julian Stannard, Richard/Breen/Richard (ABS)
Published by
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC, Warner/Chappell Music, Inc.
