Named after a fictional character in a novel, Dando Shaft were formed in Coventry in 1968. Originally a 5 piece, singer Polly Bolton joined them for their second album.

Following in the footsteps of Fairport Convention, Dando Shaft set out to re-popularize traditional music and they mixed folk with a touch of rock albeit without drums. They developed a style of complex textures and intricate patterns with musical dexterity and good compositional ability. This brew gathered great acclaim from the media but they didn't manage to break into the big time. An Evening With Dando Shaft, released on the Youngblood label was an impressive debut and was successful enough for the Progressive imprint of RCA, Neon Records, to let them record a second.

Polly Bolton joined the band for the recording of Dando Shaft. The band had always wanted to have a female singer and Bolton's distinctive voice brought another dimension to their sound. Unfortunately, Neon Records folded not long after the album's release and the band signed a one album deal with RCA Records. Perhaps, because of this trauma, Lantaloon didn't have the same magic as it's predecessors and this was their last effort until a reformed band recorded Kingdom in 1977.

After their final demise Martin Jenkins formed Hedgehog Pie before working with Bert Jansch and then forming Whippersnapper.

Kevin Dempsey & Polly Bolton relocated to the United States where they worked with the 26 person band Blue Aquarius before returning to the UK where Bolton initially joined The Albion Band for a short time before pursuing a solo career and Dempsey joined former colleague Jenkins in Whippersnapper.

Dave Cooper is now a sculptor, Ted Kay is a photographer, and Roger Bullen a folk singing driving instructor.