2
Preface
When
it was first suggested that I write this article I must say that it was
with a certain amount of trepidation and mixed emotions that I agreed.
I initially considered that being so close to members of the band for
years that have spanned from before Pagan Altar was formed to the present
day would not make me objective enough in my approach. Having been an
ex-drummer with the band, in fact the first, an association that I am
extremely proud of, I suppose my natural tendencies and inclinations would
lean towards looking at the band through rose coloured glasses. I
have therefore tried to observe and analyse the whole situation from a
totally detached viewpoint, but human nature being what it is, some of
my own opinions and observations have probably crept in and become incorporated
within some of the analytical assumptions. I have refrained from mentioning
myself 
in
the Bio, this is not due to any pretence at a misguided view of modesty
that I might have but because I genuinely feel that any major achievements
made by the band were after my departure. Although I’m sure these
two factors can’t possibly be related? I have however succumbed
to the temptation of inserting at least a couple or so pictures of myself
seen here (opposite) with Glen and Alan. I did however; get a mention
inside the sleeve of the CD, which pleased me immensely, if only to remind
me of probably one of the funniest periods in my life! My initial instruction
was to formulate a biography that was actually as near to the truth as
I could get regarding the circumstances behind events that transpired
to create the Pagan Altar enigma, such as it is, and one that has prevailed
for almost twenty years
I
have endeavoured to cover in depth as much ground as possible taking into
account the time factor involved and peoples varying conception of what
had occurred. I have managed to unearth quite a few photos and information
that haven’t seen the light of day for some considerable time that
may or may not be of interest to the reader and also attempted to evaluate
the situation up to the present day. It’s been quite fun putting
it together and I hope that aspect comes across as well as being of some
use to the fans (Bless ‘em).
Ivor T. Harper
