Alexandra

The song Alexandra by Tea, featured on their 1976 album Tax Exile, holds a special place in the band’s history as a vibrant reflection of their hard rock and progressive sound. According to a 2009 interview with lead vocalist Marc Storace, published in Swiss Rock Archives, the song was inspired by a chance encounter during their UK tour in 1975. Storace recounted meeting a charismatic fan named Alexandra at the Marquee Club in London, whose free-spirited energy left a lasting impression on the band. The track’s lyrics capture that fleeting, almost mystical connection, blending poetic imagery with the band’s signature gritty riffs. Additionally, a rare piece of trivia from a 1976 Swiss TV special, “Rock Over Switzerland,” revealed that Alexandra was initially considered for a longer, more experimental arrangement with extended guitar solos, but producer Dieter Dierks opted for a tighter, radio-friendly version to appeal to a broader audience.

Another fascinating tidbit comes from a 2018 fan post on the Tea Fan Club Facebook group, where a longtime follower shared a story about the band performing Alexandra during their 1976 Malta tour. Apparently, the song became an anthem for local fans, who would chant its chorus during late-night beach gatherings, a memory Marc Storace later confirmed in a 2009 reunion interview, calling it “a surreal moment of connection.” The single Alexandra / Winter Days, released in 1976 on Vertigo Records, also marked a milestone as it was one of the few Tea tracks to receive airplay beyond Switzerland, particularly in Germany and Italy, as noted in a Prog Archives review from 2019.

Tea began as a Swiss progressive heavy rock band in 1971, born from a spontaneous jam session in Zurich. Founding members Turo Pashayan (bass, vocals), Roli Eggli (drums), and Armand Volker (guitar) came together after playing in various local acts like Sauterelles, Fact, and New Hue. According to their biography on Prog Archives, the band’s name was derived from the first initials of the founders’ names, symbolizing their unity. They quickly gained traction touring Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands, establishing a raw, energetic sound. In 1972, Maltese-born singer Marc Storace, previously with the Swiss band Deaf, joined the lineup, bringing a powerful vocal presence that elevated their performances. By 1973, their relentless touring and a rare TV appearance on a Swiss music show solidified their reputation as Switzerland’s top rock act, setting the stage for their debut album Tea in 1974.

The band’s early years were marked by a DIY ethos, with members often handling their own promotion and booking, as Volker shared in a 2005 interview with Retrospect Records. Their big break came when they caught the attention of producer Dieter Dierks, known for his work with Scorpions, who helmed their three studio albums: Tea (1974), The Ship (1975), and Tax Exile (1976). These albums, blending hard rock with progressive elements, earned them international tours, including opening slots for Queen. Though Tea disbanded in 1977, their legacy endures, with a 2009 reunion show and the release of the Reloaded retrospective sparking renewed interest.

For fans looking to connect, Tea’s official website is teaband.ch, though it primarily serves as an archival hub with discography and historical photos. Their official Facebook page shares occasional updates, including throwback posts from Storace and fan-submitted memories. The band does not maintain an active Instagram account, but fans often tag #TeaBand on posts. Similarly, there’s no official X account, though searching #TeaRockBand yields fan discussions. The Tea Fan Club Facebook group is a lively community where Zoo Freaks can share stories, rare vinyl finds, and concert memories. Another fan-driven site, Prog Archives, offers detailed discography reviews and a forum for enthusiasts to discuss Tea’s music and influence.