Hard rock band from southern Maryland originally known as Starz. Members included Ken Taylor (vocals), Jeff Avery (lead guitar), Dave Simmons (rhythm guitar), and Henry Farmer (bass). The original drummer was replaced with Pat McGowan in late 1977, who was later replaced with Glenn Jones. The group frequented D.C. and Baltimore clubs and concert halls – Coast to Coast, Sandbar, Varsity Grill in College Park, Seagull Inn, Jr.’s Inn on Pulaski Hwy, Stardust (Waldorf), Maxwell’s, Electric Circus, Bogey’s in D.C. with local group Angel… Starz were seen performing in the “Jazz on the Plaza” program at Hopkins Plaza. Due to a conflict with Capitol recording artist of the same name Starz became known as D.C. Star in 1975.
They released a single in 1977 “Blue Sparks” b/w “Keeper of The Keys.”.
The group toured the northeastern states appearing with local band Trigger Happy in the early ‘80s. They also appeared as opening act for many national groups including Molly Hatchet, Humble Pie, Judas Priest…
They released a self-titled album in 1982 known as “The Picture Disc.” Their song “Love Me, Love Me or Drive Me Insane” was included on the WAVA FM105 Washington Rocks album in 1983. Their album releases include “Livin’ in A Rock & Roll Whirl” in 1984, and “Rockin’ in the Classroom” in 1985 with the line-up of Taylor, Avery, Simmons, Farmer, and Jones. Guitarist Bob Feister also played with the group before joining Horizon.
D.C. Star also released LPs on Violation Records.
In 1985 the group morphed into Mirage. Simmons later with Court Jester…
1977 Secant 05 Blue Sparks / Keeper of The Keys
1984(LP) Escape 007 Livin’ in A Rock & Roll Whirl
1985(LP) Mirage 90251-1 Rockin’ in the Classroom
