When it became apparent that Laurence Tolhurst could no longer fulfill the role of drummer, Andy was hired into the group. Andy helped out in the recording of some of the singles which make up 'Japanese Whispers' and then on 'The Top'. His first stage performance came on 27th July, 1983 at Midnight Express in Bournemouth. After The Cure's concert on 17th October, 1984 at Nakano Sun Plaza hall in Tokyo, Robert kicked Andy out of the band due to extreme drinking problems.