[ The 1990 South Island tour: Rick, Bill, Andrew ]

Through most of the 80s Rick and Bill led their own rock and R&B groups, Rick in Auckland with the Jive Bombers, Bill in Wellington with the Pelicans and Living Daylights.  But in 1989 Bill and Rick were united on a recording project, intended to be a one-off retrospective collaboration, which triggered the revival of the Strugglers in its most recent and longstanding incarnation.  We're in the Same Boat Brother (Eelman, cassette only) was a low key, largely acoustic production, paying homage to Bill and Rick's musical roots and included country blues and jug band material from the original Strugglers repertoire, as well as Bill Lake originals. Previous Strugglers Andrew Delahunty, Geoff and Mike Rashbrooke and Nick Bollinger all appeared.  The reunion was also was marked by an unexpected appearance by Rick and Bill live on the television show CV.  

Following the release of We're in the Same Boat Brother in 1990, the Strugglers were booked to open in Wellington for touring Louisiana roots rockers Wayne Toups and Zydecajun.  The Strugglers then embarked (without Geoff) on a memorable tour of South Island. The pattern was now set for the next few years, which would involve regular regrouping (with the band now spread between two cities) for recording, gigs and touring.