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Jaguar : The Beginnings

In 1985, Michael Stancliff joined Dirty Deal, a band David Berry had joined five months earlier. Within six months the group recorded their first record in Hollywood, California. It was produced by Kim Fowley (Kiss, Alice Cooper Joan Jett) and distributed by Important. The album quickly charted on Billboard independent charts. Several songs received heavy airplay on Mid-Atlantic radio stations. The band toured consistently, setting attendance records at several large venues. Dirty Deal also played shows with Ratt, Metallica, Saxon Pat Travers and Kix.

Dirty Deal disbanded in 1987 after the second album was recorded (although never released). David and Michael went their separate ways.

A year later they were ready to put a new band together. A group of musicians with unmatched talent and abilities. This group would be called Jaguar.

Billy Kyger, Jaguar’s lead vocalist had previously worked with Michael on several recording projects. This was the first opportunity to work together in a live band. Billy is truly the centerpiece of Jaguar. His magnetic stage presence compliments his unbelievable vocal range. Because of his large following in the Baltimore / Washington D.C. area, his addition made the band an instant success.

Christopher Sellman met David Berry in a music store and David soon realized he had found Jaguar’s bass player. A multi-talented musician, Chris was performing with an all-original progressive rock band when David approached him with the concept of Jaguar. He joined immediately. Although Chris is the youngest member he is extremely devoted to his music abilities.

Mike Shipley was teaching drums and doing session work when asked to audition for Jaguar. He was the first drummer to audition and the last. Jaguar had to look no further. Not only does he add a distinctive jazz-rock feel to Jaguar, he’s also the most experienced member of the band. Mike has toured extensively throughout Europe, Australia and New Zealand.

Jaguar’s priority right now is to perform live anywhere, anytime, anyhow. Already well-established in Baltimore, they are devoting the next year to their performance. They hope to develop a long lasting unity to achieve even higher goals.

Right now is an excellent time to see and experience Jaguar. They are still new and they are very hungry, but like most predators they move fast. Jaguar is on the hunt and the time to act is now. You will not be disappointed!