PHOENIX evolved from the last days of ARGENT, John Verity and Bob Henrit having both been involved in the group. PHOENIX formed in 1975, originally as a trio with Jim Rodford on keyboards and bass and Verity on guitar. The band's self-titled debut arrived the following year on CBS Records and the group toured in support of TED NUGENT. However, the group would split with Rodford joining THE KINKS.

A reformation attempt involving FRANKIE MILLER'S FULL HOUSE and HIGHWAY guitarist Ray Minhinnet, former ARGENT man RUSS BALLARD on keyboards, former BLACK SHEEP bassist Bruce Turgon and ex-SILVERHEAD and DETECTIVE frontman MICHAEL DES BARRES would record the 'In Full View’ album for Charisma Records. Although the band recorded a version of Ballard's 'I Surrender' they did not release it. Subsequently, the song was covered by RAINBOW, becoming a major international hit. During recording of 'In Full View' PHIL LYNOTT offered Minhinnet the guitar vacancy in THIN LIZZY, but this offer was declined.

PHOENIX gfolded whilst in preperation for a projected third album. Verity and Henrit later joined CHARLIE, after which the former produced the debut SAXON album, joined forces with ex-SWEET frontman Brian Connolly and subsequently opted to form his own solo venture JOHN VERITY BAND in the early to mid 80’s. Minhinnet united with erstwhile STATUS QUO drummer John Coghlan in DIESEL.

Turgon was later to collaborate with old BLACK SHEEP colleague LOU GRAMM, play in Heavy Metal band WARRIOR and ultimately rejoin Gramm in a rejuvenated FOREIGNER. Des Barres joined THE POWERSTATION before concentrating on an acting career. BRUCE TURGON readied his solo debut, 'Outside Looking In', through the Italian Frontiers label in 2005.