But disaster struck on Christmas Eve, 1984. Ron Tabak was cycling across Vancouver to visit his friend and fellow bandmember Al Harlow. The two had planned to spend Christmas together. Harlow last saw Tabak on the afternoon of the 24th when he picked up some of his belongings in his car. Tabak decided he would cycle to Harlow's Kitsilano apartment as part of his "fitness program". Tabak was struck on the head as he was brushed by a passing vehicle at about 8pm. He had also been injured in a mugging the week earlier and already had stitches on the back of his head. He was brought to hospital by ambulance but was told there was nothing wrong with him. Tabak became abusive and was arrested by police who happened to be there at the time. Early Christmas Day, Tabak's mother was advised by telephone that he had been found unconscious in the police cells and had been returned to Burnaby Hospital and then transferred to Vancouver General.
Vancouver General told Mrs. Tabak her son's condition was grave: A scan examination had shown a blood clot on the right side of his brain, and a neurosurgeon was preparing to operate. He did not regain consciousness and died December 26, 1984.
With the death of their lead vocalist, Prism remained silent until May, 1988 when Al Harlow, Lindsay Mitchell, and Rocket Norton entered the studio with local artists Darcy Deutsch and Andy Lorimer to record a new single, Good to be Back. The new track, written by Harlow, Jim Vallance and Bryan Adams, outlines the 13 year history of the band including a small tribute to the late Ron Tabak. However, the strength of the new single was not enough to land a new record deal. But the band drove on and finally recorded a new album, Jericho, in 1992.
Prism is still rocking on stage playing outdoor concerts, festivals and clubs. The glory days of 80's Stadium Rock may be gone but Prism continues to deliver on stage wherever they play.
