In 1974, Mark Holden entered Showcase '74, a television
talent show on Network 9 where he sung original folk songs. Holden ultimately
placed fifth, performing a track "Tap Dancing Down Easy Street" in
the final. John Bromwell from Essex Music saw his performances and brought
Holden to Sydney. Bromwell arranged an audition with Peter Dawkins a record
producer with EMI Music who signed Holden.
“Dawn in Darkness” (EMA 315) was the debut studio album by Holden. The
album was recorded and released in 1975. Holden said “that it sold about 2,000
copies only and was a 'big flop' adding; "It was entirely original, all
the songs I wrote as a kid”. SCRA’s
Peter Martin played guitar on this LP and Alison McCallum sang backing vocals
on the track “Carry Me Down”. Other
musicians were Doug Gallacher – Drums, John Bartlett – Bass, Tony Esterman –
Keyboards and John Sangster and Ian Bloxam on percussion. Flac
