Ab Bryant — Rare Footage & Clips
Ab Bryant's fingerprints are all over Prism's storied history, a testament to his enduring influence on Canadian rock music. Born in Canada in 1954, Bryant's journey with Prism began in Vancouver in 1977, where the band's classic line-up was forged. Alongside Ron Tabak, Lindsay Mitchell, John Hall, Allen Harlow, and Rocket Norton, Bryant's bass lines helped shape Prism's signature sound – a potent blend of album-oriented rock (AOR) and pop rock that would captivate audiences across North America.
One clip from the DeepCutsArchive stands out as a pivotal moment in Prism's trajectory: their 1981 single "Don't Let Him Know." This anthemic hit not only reached the US top 40 charts but also cemented Prism's status as a major force in Canadian rock. With its soaring chorus and Bryant's driving bass, "Don't Let Him Know" remains an essential listen for anyone interested in the era's AOR sound.
Bryant's contributions to Prism extend far beyond his time with the band. As a songwriter, he has collaborated with some of Canada's most iconic musicians, including Bryan Adams, who contributed to several early Prism releases. This creative synergy speaks to Bryant's ability to bring out the best in those around him – a quality that has made him an invaluable asset to any project he undertakes.
The 2011 selection of Prism's "Spaceship Superstar" as the wake-up song for the Space Shuttle Discovery crew members is a testament to the band's enduring appeal. Released in 1977, this song's futuristic themes and soaring guitar riffs must have seemed like science fiction to listeners at the time. Yet, decades later, its nostalgic value and sense of wonder continue to captivate new generations.
Bryant's legacy extends beyond Prism itself. As a mentor and collaborator, he has played a significant role in launching the careers of several notable musicians. Bruce Fairbairn, Jim Vallance, Tom Lavin, and Ab Bryant himself are just a few examples of artists who have benefited from his guidance and support.
A closer examination of Prism's discography reveals a remarkable consistency in quality across their eight studio albums. From the AOR-infused "See Forever Eyes" to the pop-rock oriented "Armageddon," each release showcases the band's ability to craft memorable hooks and melodies. This is no small feat, especially considering the ever-changing musical landscape of the 1970s and 1980s.
One clip from the DeepCutsArchive that highlights Bryant's skill as a songwriter is Prism's 1981 single "Take Me to the Top." With its driving beat and anthemic chorus, this song showcases Bryant's ability to craft infectious, sing-along melodies. The way he weaves together disparate musical elements – from the guitar riffs to the keyboard textures – creates a sense of tension and release that propels the listener forward.
Bryant's impact on Canadian music extends far beyond his work with Prism. As a member of the Juno Awards' "Group of the Year" in 1981, he helped cement the band's status as one of Canada's premier rock acts. This achievement speaks to Bryant's ability to collaborate and contribute to larger musical projects – a quality that has made him an invaluable asset to any team.
A review of Prism's live performances from the era reveals a band in their element – a high-energy group capable of delivering on even the most complex arrangements. With Bryant's driving bass lines at its core, Prism's sound is both timeless and rooted in the era's musical landscape. This ability to balance competing influences has made them one of Canada's most beloved rock bands.
The significance of Ab Bryant's contributions to Prism cannot be overstated. As a songwriter, collaborator, and mentor, he has played a vital role in shaping Canadian rock music. From his work with Bryan Adams to his time as a member of the Juno Awards' "Group of the Year," Bryant's fingerprints are all over some of the era's most iconic releases.
One clip from the DeepCutsArchive that showcases Bryant's skill as a live performer is Prism's 1981 performance at Toronto's Maple Leaf Gardens. With its high-energy stage presence and driving rhythms, this show captures the band in their prime – a testament to Bryant's ability to bring out the best in those around him.
As we look back on Ab Bryant's storied career with Prism, it becomes clear that his impact extends far beyond his time with the band. As a songwriter, collaborator, and mentor, he has played a vital role in shaping Canadian rock music – a legacy that continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
The image of Ab Bryant standing on stage at Maple Leaf Gardens in 1981, surrounded by Prism's classic line-up, remains an enduring one. With his driving bass lines at its core, the band's sound is both timeless and rooted in the era's musical landscape – a testament to Bryant's ability to craft music that transcends time.
The significance of Ab Bryant's contributions to Prism cannot be overstated. As we celebrate his legacy with this artist page on DeepCutsArchive, it becomes clear that his impact will continue to resonate for years to come.
Curated from public records and music databases.
