An Ilford rock band’s tribute single to their murdered drummer has led to their first album release in 35 years, with a comeback gig planned for Friday.

In tribute to their former drummer Mark Evans, Good Thinking, who reformed after 35 years without contact, released single Warrior Soul earlier this year.

It led to Cargo Records inviting them to record their first studio album, Turning The Clock Back.

The quartet will support 1970s legends Stray at The Standard in Walthamstow, to celebrate the release of their first ever album on Monday.

On getting the chance to record an album, bassist Adrian Wood, 56, said: “It was quite a surprise. It was something that eluded us 35 years ago.

“I hadn’t actually played bass for 35 years so I had to learn everything again,” he added. “The band still has its spark and magic.”

The graphic designer, who now lives in Essex, said his favourite song on the album is Where This Journey Takes Me, for its rockabilly style.

The album consists of six new tracks plus five remastered tracks from when they were touring east London in the ’70s, with the late Mark drumming on them.

Mark, of Chadwell Heath, was attacked and strangled before being left for dead in Seven Kings in January 2005.

Singer Marc Ring, 55, wrote his former band-member’s successful tribute, Warrior Soul, which was named after the band the drummer recorded albums with in New York.

The former Ilford County High School pupil, who lives in Chelmsford, said: “It was difficult writing a song about someone who we haven’t had much contact with for a long, long time, but we tried to pay our respects to a guy who made it in the music business.”

After disbanding, the five Ilford men went their separate ways living their lives across east London and Essex.

The rockers, who refound each other on Friends Reunited last year, hope to play at festivals in 2012, with Cambridge looking likely.

Good Thinking is open to gig offers from music venues in Redbridge and Newham after supporting Stray.