Centred upon the charismatic figure of Rex Smith, younger brother of STARZ vocalist Michael Lee Smith, REX was a promising Hard Rock band featuring the twin guitar team of Lou Vandora and Lars Hanson with the rhythm section including bassist Orville Davis from Southern boogie merchants HYDRA. With management backing from Leber/Krebs, a deal with Columbia and two Eddie Leonetti produced albums to their name, REX actually recorded an even heavier third album, which remains unreleased. The drummer from this project, ex-MAX RUSH man Sandy Slavin, went on to join RIOT and later ACE FREHLEY. The first REX album, released in 1976, featured a cover of THE WHO's 'I Can't Explain'.

With Smith opting to go solo, disappearing down a largely Pop avenue before becoming involved in an acting career, bassist Davis joined Rex's brother in STARZ for the 'Coliseum Rock' album.

Smith's first solo album, 'Sooner Or Later', featured REX's Lars Hanson amongst the guitarists, whilst the later 'Camouflage' album (which saw Smith return somewhat to his Hard Rock roots) found Lou Vandora's name amongst the credits. However, Rex Smith's solo career will probably most be remembered for the American hit he scored with an insipid cover of 'Everlasting Love' in collaboration with popster RACHEL SWEET in 1981. In later years Rex Smith found a career in stage musicals, performing 'Kiss Me Kate', 'Annie Get Your Gun' and 'The Scarlet Pimpernel' on Broadway.