Byzantium

Byzantium was an English psychedelic / progressive rock band of the 1970s who released three albums and four singles; performed one Peel Session in the '70s; released an album of previously unreleased '70s live recordings in 2018; and released a 5CD box set in 2021. They are perhaps best remembered for their role in the early careers of Mick Barakan (aka Shane Fontayne), Robin Lamble, Chaz Jankel and Robin Sylvester. Formed as a school band at University College School (UCS), Hampstead, London the original lineup included Nico Ramsden, and Jamie Rubinstein as a duo that quickly expanded with the addition of Robin Lamble, Beverly Baxter, and Stevie Corduner. Chas Jankel replaced Jamie Rubinstein, who still disillusioned over the failure of his pre Byzantium band, Ora, left as did Beverly Baxter. Jamie Rubinstein returned a short time later with Mick Barakan and the band's final lineup had taken shape. Jamie, Mick, and Robin (Lamble) contributed by way of songwriting and Robin Sylvester as recording engineer, arranger, and later joint producer. The band played their only Peel Session in April 1974, by which time their line up was Rubinstein, Barakan, Lamble and Corduner. Byzantium continued touring until late in 1975 when they played their final concert at The Roundhouse, in London, the same venue they had played their first concert.