Although released in 1997 and tending to be disguised as a brand new release, SILENT WITNESS' debut album had been originally recorded some years earlier, the band being formed in 1988 by bassist Hal B. Selzer with an early line-up featuring drummer Joe Novolo of PHANTOM'S OPERA.

The band actually changed titles upon the enlistment of vocalist Fred Dodds to ADRIAN DODZ, issuing an independent album before reverting back to SILENT WITNESS with new vocalist Robert Mason, a veteran of MAGNUM. Novelo opted out to tour with MAHOGANY RUSH and in came ex-FURY drummer Lance Stark.

Produced by David Prater, the debut was intended for Epic Records although with record company shake ups the band lost their deal and the record was shelved. It was to be issued much later by Escape Music. Subsequently, Mason went on to front LYNCH MOB. Selzer forged a union with guitarist Bobby Bandiera.

In 1998 a SILENT WITNESS track was contributed to a CHEAP TRICK tribute album, 'Stiff Competition' released through Rock Dream Records. Oddly, the song featured a guest vocal appearance from ex-ANGEL vocalist Frank Dimino and a guitar cameo from erstwhile STARZ guitarist Richie Ranno.

Despite laudatory reviews Mason opted to leave the band teaming up with CRY OF LOVE. The 1998 album 'Thrills' sees Anthony Lee Fontayne taking over vocal duties and the addition of STEPHAN ROSS on guitar. Ross had previously issued a solo album on Shrapnel Records. Fontayne had been lined up to replace Jani Lane's vacant vocal position in WARRANT before Lane decided upon a return.

Robert Mason fleetingly fronted RATT but made headlines in mid 2005 by way of a partnership with ex-KING KOBRA guitarist David Michael Phillips and a new album 'Year Of The Cock' credited to BIG COCK.