The South London-based Killing Floor was formed by lead guitarist Mick Clarke and vocalist/harmonica player Bill Thorndycraft. During the British blues boom of 1968-1969, they decided to form a blues band, recruiting prospective members from the classified pages of Melody Maker. Joining them were piano player Lou Martin, bassist Stuart MacDonald, and drummer Bazz Smith.
Taking their name from Howlin’ Wolf’s “Killing Floor”, the band played just one gig before ex-Radio Caroline DJ and ardent blues fanatic John Edward offered to manage them. The band was booked into Pye Recording Studios and with Edward aboard as “producer,” they recorded their self-titled debut in 12 days’ time. Most of the material was re-configured Chicago blues classics, except for a cover of Willie Dixon’s “You Need Love”.
They hit the road and had an eventful four year ride of recording and touring, backing Freddie King on two UK tours and playing concerts with Howlin’ Wolf, Captain Beefheart, The Nice, Yes, Jethro Tull and many other important acts of the time.