Bristol's Progressive Doom combo. GONGA was initiated during 1998, then known as OCTANE BUD and involving bassist Will Smalley, drummer Thomas Elgie and guitar player George Elgie, later joined by singer Joe Volk. Switching title to TEMPLE, the group debuted live at the Shambala Festival in Somerset. GONGA released their self-titled debut album in 2003 on Invada Records. Touring in 2004 witnessed dates backing MONDO GENERATOR, after which Smalley opted out. Hugo of THE HEADS stepped in as substitute but he would also exit shortly afterwards.

GONGA drafted Hallam Kite on bass in January 2006 for recording of a second album. The band's membership problems were not over though as, mid-recording, Kite took his leave. GONGA inducted SOLOMON KANE and TAINT man Chris West to finish the sessions.

Former AKERCOCKE bassist Peter Theobalds was inducted in 2007, debuting live on May 13th 2007 at the Bierkeller in Bristol flanking ORANGE GOBLIN and SOLACE.