What is the history of the Crash Test Dummies?
In many ways, the origin of Crash Test Dummies is tied to the history of two Winnipeg nightspots, the Spectrum Cabaret and the Blue Note Cafe. These were owned by Curtis Riddell, a next-door neighbour to the Roberts family. In the mid-1980s, Riddell joined with Brad to form the decidedly less-than-serious bar band, Bad Brad Roberts and the St. James Rhythm Pigs. Their material, according to Brad, consisted largely of “ridiculous cover tunes – everything from cheesy Irish traditionals to TV theme songs to acoustic versions of Alice Cooper hits.” Over time, the band evolved into the Crash Test Dummies that we all know and love. Ellen Reid and Benjamin Darvill became permanent additions. George West, the original bass player, quit and was replaced by Dan Roberts, Brad’s brother. Riddell was replaced by Vince Lambert, who later quit/was fired (depending on who you listen to), and was replaced by Mitch Dorge around the time that The Ghosts That Haunt Me was released. Crash Test Dummies firs
