 Smith played in several lo-fi experimental bands in New Zealand and released a few albums with Say Yes to Apes and Hyphen-Ears in the mid '80s.After suffering a concussion while playing university rugby union in 1987, Smith was forced to sit on the sidelines for almost three weeks.His wife saw a casting call advertisement for the touring musical tribute to Elvis Presley, "Are You Lonesome Tonight", and signed up Kevin for an audition.