The Angels
Assembled and edited
By
Martin Francis
JosslynMartinArt.com
Feature Artist Band The Angels
The Brewster family has longstanding ties to Victor Harbor. The brothers' grandparents lived there, and the family spent significant time in the area during their upbringing. John and Rick have often spoken about Victor Harbor as a place they hold dear, associating it with family memories and inspiration.
The scenic beauty and relaxed coastal vibe of Victor Harbor have been mentioned as a source of creativity and grounding for the Brewsters. While their music is associated with high-energy rock, the natural environment may have offered a contrasting space for reflection and renewal.
The Brewster brothers maintain a presence in the region and are celebrated as South Australian icons. Their connection to Victor Harbor is sometimes referenced in local cultural and musical contexts.
"Coming from a musical family their father Arthur Brewster was a conductor in the Adelaide Symphony Orchestra. In 1949 Grandfather Hooper Brewster died backstage just after his son had finished conducting him."
Their hard-driving rock sound and thought-provoking lyrics resonated with audiences across Australia. They produced hits such as "Am I Ever Gonna See Your Face Again," "Take a Long Line," and "No Secrets." The chemistry between the Brewster brothers and their musical vision played a crucial role in shaping The Angels’ identity. Beyond The Angels The Brewster brothers also pursued side projects, collaborated with other musicians, and engaged in independent music ventures outside of The Angels. They are often celebrated for their contributions to Australian music and have received various awards and honours.
"The Brewster brothers maintain a presence in the region and are celebrated as South Australian icons. Their connection to Victor Harbor is sometimes referenced in local cultural and musical contexts."
In the early 1970s, the Brewster brothers co-founded the band The Angels, originally called The Moonshine Jug and String Band. In 1974 they transitioned to the Keystone Angels with a harder rock sound, and the band became one of the most successful and influential rock groups in Australian music history.
Their name was later shortened to the Angels and members included Bernard "Doc" Neeson on lead vocals and bass guitar, John Brewster on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, and his brother Rick Brewster on lead guitar. Peter "Charlie" King on drums. In 1976, King was replaced by Graham Bidstrup on drums, and Chris Bailey took over bass duties so Neeson could focus solely on vocals.
Talk the Talk
The Brewsters remain iconic figures in South Australia and continue to inspire local musicians. Their music is considered a staple of Australian rock culture, and they are regarded as trailblazers who helped put Australian rock music on the global map.
No Secrets
Am I ever going to see your face again featuring Ella Cooper
The Angels Current Line Up
Lead Vocals - Dave Gleeson
Lead Guitar - Rick Brewster
Rhythm Guitar - John Brewster
Bass Guitar - Chris Bailey
Bass Sam Brewster (due to illness)
Drums - Nick Norton