Weapon were formed in March 1980 by Vocalist Danny Hynes & Guitarist Jeff Summers. After a couple of gigs they replaced the original rhythm section, bringing in a couple of their friends, bassist Baz Downes & drummer Bruce Bisland. A showcase for Laurie Dunn, then head of Virgin Publishing, resulted in the band being immediately signed to a worldwide deal with Virgin. After playing a gig at The Virgin owned ‘Venue’ in London, Motorhead guitarist Eddie Clarke (who happened to be in the audience) suggested to the band that Weapon should open for Motorhead on their forthcoming U.K. tour. A showcase gig was hastily arranged at The Music Machine, Camden for Motorhead and their management, after which Weapon were offered, and accepted, the tour!
The 32 date ‘Ace Up Your Sleeve’ UK tour began at The Gaumont, Ipswich, on October 22n, ending with four ‘Sell Out’ shows at London’s iconic Hammersmith Odeon on the 29th November 1980.