With a 28-year history, IQ are widely regarded as one of the world’s most highly respected progressive rock bands. The group was formed in 1981 by guitarist Mike Holmes and keyboard player Martin Orford. They recruited bassist Tim Esau that year, followed by vocalist Peter Nicholls and drummer Paul Cook in 1982, when they released their first cassette album Seven Stories Into Eight. Constant gigging throughout the UK led to them becoming a regular fixture at London’s legendary Marquee Club. Their first vinyl album Tales From The Lush Attic was released in 1983, with the classic The Wake in 1985 and the live set Living Proof in 1986.

With a 28-year history, IQ are widely regarded as one of the world’s most highly respected progressive rock bands. The group was formed in 1981 by guitarist Mike Holmes and keyboard player Martin Orford. They recruited bassist Tim Esau that year, followed by vocalist Peter Nicholls and drummer Paul Cook in 1982, when they released their first cassette album Seven Stories Into Eight. Constant gigging throughout the UK led to them becoming a regular fixture at London’s legendary Marquee Club. Their first vinyl album Tales From The Lush Attic was released in 1983, with the classic The Wake in 1985 and the live set Living Proof in 1986.

Recently re-united with front-man Peter Nicholls and with new bassist John Jowitt on board, 1993 saw the debut of what many consider to be IQ’s ’classic’ line-up and one which was to go on to make a string of first-rate albums.

Live shows of the English showpiece prog band IQ are always an experience: Even months after their concerts fans are moved in various internet forums, guest books and mailing lists about the overwhelming and audio-visual impressions. ‘Stage’, the third DVD release of this quintet, once again is re-enacted in a brilliant way. Particularly appealing are the two complete festival concerts of the ‘Dark Matter Tour 2005’ that is featured on this release.