Biographies Needing Attention

Following the decision of the members of KARNATAKA to end the band’s activities (this by the agreement of all members – it is a common misconception that there was a spilt to form a new outfit), Jonathan EDWARDS (keyboards), Paul DAVIS (guitar) and Gavin GRIFFITHS (drums; MOSTLY AUTUMN, FISH) formed PANIC ROOM, with Anne-Marie HELDER (vocals, guitar, flute; MOSTLY AUTUMN). Alan VAUGHAN (bass), who completed the line-up, joined them shortly afterwards.

Explaining the missive behind their debut album, 2008's 'Visionary Position', Jonathan EDWARDS (principle co-writer, along with Anne-Marie) says “. we really wanted to explore all the different kinds of music that turn us on and make something fresh and original. Because of the common background in KARNATAKA that Anne, Paul, Gavin and myself shared it was inevitable that some elements of our musical past would resurface in PANIC ROOM's music, but there are so many other influences and elements coming through as well."

Indeed, their music undoubtedly incorporates symphonic prog mainstream rock, acoustic, ambient soundscapes, folk, jazz and even eastern influences. Far from being an archetypal “crossover prog” act, the band provide us with a truly eclectic scope of music. This is similarly reflected in their lyrics, principally, but not exclusively, penned by Anne-Marie, who explores "futuristic dystopian sci-fi worlds and 'Arabian Night' fantasies as well as achingly honest love songs". Such tracks serve as vehicles for the diverse, richly emotive and wide-ranging singing styles mastered by Anne-Marie, who is one of the most accomplished vocalists on the present UK progressive circuit.

Naturally, PANIC ROOM will appeal to those who admire the 'new wave' of female fronted, progressively influenced bands within the UK scene, which had been initiated by MOSTLY AUTUMN and KARNATAKA, during the late '90s. However, PANIC ROOM's music stands apart as being more diverse than others within this sub-genre.

The band have released four original studio albums, namely Visionary Position, Satellite, Skin, and Incarnate, one acoustic reworking album Essence, and, latterly in 2017, a Pledge Music fan funded live DVD/CD, Screens Live in London, which is only available at the time of writing on their website (see link below).

However, in an exclusive interview with PA, which can be viewed on the forum (Interviews section), Jonathan Edwards confirmed definite plans to record a new studio album with the present line-up of he, Anne-Marie, Gavin, bassist Yatim Halimi, and guitarist Dave Foster. Panic Room, therefore, continue to be very much an ongoing and important force within the progressive rock scene.

Biography updated by Steve Lazenby (Lazland) February 2018