by Jim DorschCartoon was formed in 1979 by Scott Brazieal (keyboards), Mark Innocenti (guitars), and Gary Parra (drums). The group recorded their first album in late 1979 and early 1980, but lacked the funds to manufacture it. The band relocated from Phoenix, AZ, to San Francisco, CA, in summer 1981, and added two new members, Herbert Diamant (reeds) and Craig Fry (violin). Their self-titled first LP was finally released in late 1981. During 1982-1983, Cartoon opened for acts such as Alan Holdsworth, Renaissance, and Fred Frith. Their second LP, Music From Left Field, was recorded and released in 1983. Interest in this LP garnered invitations to play at two prestigious new music festivals in France. At the second of these shows, the groups van and all its contents were stolen. Cartoons dissolution soon followed. All of Cartoons two LPs, save one song, are combined on the CD, Sortie.