PSYCHEDELIC MUSIC
INTRODUCTION
Psychedelic music has been a passion and love for me ever since I can remember. It has open up an area of intrigue in the creative process of musical arrangement for a long time. Below is a succession of psychedelic bands both from the USA, and Europe further down, which have inspired me. The songs have been carefully selected from a collection of CD's that I have gathered over the years. I remember first listening to Pink Floyd when I was very young, with a good friend of mine, who's father was an enthusiast. Ever since then, as I explored further into the genre of psychedelic music, all these other bands appeared. What intrigued me then, was that a lot of these bands were not widely known in the commercial scene, and for some reason or the other, they didn't make it big in the music industry. There were a lot of Garage bands as well from that vintage that didn't make it big, and they produced some very interesting music. I write a brief note regarding each band, and have provided the songs so you can listen to. All these bands have had an impact on me, and have guided and given me direction as to what type of writer I was to become. Have a browse through some of these bands, and read some of the things I write about them. Further down there is Volume IV, and IV, of the psychedelic bands of the 60'd that I have compiled, I hope you can enjoy some of these sounds, as much it has inspired me over a memorable period.
Usa psychedelic sounds of the 60's1. Barnyard Blues - 13th Floor Elevators
2. Do you feel it - ? Mark & the Mysterians 3. She’s coming home - Blues Magoos 4. Louie Louie - The Kingsmen 5. Knock Knock - The Humane Society 6. Go to - ? Mark & the Mysterians 7. Dear Dr. Doom - 13th Floor Elevators 8. Lil’ Red riding hood - Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs 9. Somebody to love - Jefferson Airplane 10. Fox is sick - Savage Resurrection 11. In the Past - The Chocolate Watchband 12. You’re gonna miss me - 13th Floor Elevators 13. Journey to the center of the mind - The Amboy Dukes 14. Come on in - The Music Machine 15. Incense & Peppermints - Strawberry Alarm Clock 16. Intermission - Blues Magoos 17. What can I do for you, first half - The Other Half 18. The Egyptian - The Litter 19. Malaguena - The Trashmen 20. 96 Tears - ? Mark & the Mysterians 21. Are you gonna be there - The Chocolate Band 22. Everynight - The Human Expression 23. White Rabbit - Jefferson Airplane 24. Soul searchin - The Litter 25. Hand Jive - The Strangeloves 26. Run, Run, Run - The Gestures 27. Why is a carrot more orange than an orange - The Amboy Dukes 28. Bad little woman - Shadows of Knight 29. That’s all folks - Blues Magoos |
COMMENTARY ON THE USA PSYCHEDELIC SOUNDS OF THE 60’S WRITTEN BY (ANDREW IOANNIDIS)
1. BARNYARD BLUES - 13th FLOOR ELEVATORS
13th Floor Elevators were an American psychedelic rock band from Austin, Texas. They were formed by guitarist and vocalist Roky Erickson, electric jug player Tommy Hall, and Stacy Sutherland. They existed between the years 1965-1969 and brought out four albums, of which I have them all. Tommy Hall was legendary, he would hold a ceramic bottle on the microphone, and blow in the bottle, it would resonate a distinctive sound, which added to the droning type of effect to many of their songs.
Listen to the cool bass in this song, that slick guitar. That mellow voice, laid back, colourful drums slick and consistent 60’s beat. Cool sounds of the 60’s groove, pure bluesy psychedelic local Austin, Texas, groove machine. We become familiar with the territory, and become more aware that this place was the hometown of such a unique 60’s psychedelic band.
2. DO YOU FEEL IT - QUESTION MARK AND THE MYSTERIANS
This is a great song. This band formed in 1962 in Michigan, it was a Latino group that played the Garage rock in ‘Proto Punk’ style. The band’s lead singer’s name was never verified, he went by the name of ? Question Mark. Hence the band was called Question Mark and the Mysterians. There is a fantastic keyboard player in the band, Frank Rodriguez which gives the band its distinctive signature. ? Question Mark has a terrific voice as well, and the guitarist Robert Balderrama is sensational. An all Mexican/American line up which I suppose makes their music all the more special because of their ethnic roots. I have three tracks in this collection, because they impress me. 96 Tears was almost their only best known hit. They did have a huge cult following for a Garage Rock band of their time. Check out this song, if it won't get you up dancing, I don’t know what will. This is the sort of song, you put on when you have a woman around, and you watch her shake. Really great 60’s groove. Feel that pumping and thumping bass guitar going through the song, it sounds great.
3. SHE’S COMING HOME - BLUES MAGOOS
The Blues Magoos were a band from New York, that were well respected in the 60’s. Ralph Scala keyboards/vocals, and Emil ‘Peppy’ Thielham on guitar/vocals, were the main writers of the band. They out four or five albums, and a few compilations in the 60’s, but they never enjoyed any commercial success. Psychedelic music had a small following and wasn’t mainstream enough for everyone to cash into it. The Blues Magoos have re-united after 40 years since their last album, and are currently doing a world tour. Psychedelic music has become popular in the world, and more and more people are getting back into it. This song has a great feel. Has a bit of that Doors feel. Of course this band were around long before the Doors, and if anything influenced the Doors. I believe their unique raw Garage Rock feel influenced a lot of the mainstream commercial bands that became successful. I mean, you can’t have every band making it, there has to be a few that miss out, and unfortunately this band did, and they did have genuine talent.
4. LOUIE LOUIE - THE KINGSMEN
One of my personal favourites. The Kingsmen were a terrific American Garage band. Probably known for their great main hit in 1963, Louie Louie, but I have a few of their albums which feature many tasteful delicacies, of which I can’t understand why didn’t they make it as well. Anyway, no doubt Louie Louie is a classic, and many bands have tried to cover it, but no one plays it as well as the original. I love the lazy lyrics, and the lazy way the vocalist sings the song, and the guitarist Jack Ely. Don Galluci on the electric piano gives a distinctive sound, look at all these ethnic names John, they are always popping up here and there. Louie flows wonderfully, and the song reminds me of a character that is a street guy, don’t you think it’s a great song for the 1963 period? A lot different to the poppy love songs the Beatles were bringing out.
5. KNOCK KNOCK - THE HUMANE SOCIETY
The Human Society is a psychedelic punk group formed in 1965. It was discovered by well known producers while the band were performing on the street on a flatbed truck parked outside a local record store. This song Knock, Knock is celebrated as a savage, disarmingly deep and instinctive foundation of proto-punk genius. Listen to the tambourine clinging, and the great guitar twanging, and the tremolo keyboards in the background. Great vocals, that seem as if the words are improvised, then the way the song speeds up, typical early roots of early punk. I reckon this band is very original, they weren’t together very long, but for the short period they were I have a few of their songs, very raw and original, they are very inspiring.
6. GO TO - QUESTION MARK AND THE MYSTERIANS
Another song from ? & the Mysterians. Great voice from ? a bit like a Doors number. You can see Manzarek would have got inspiration from this band, they were long before the Doors were around. I have a few of this band’s records, but they are rare to find, and the quality of their bootlegs a bit ordinary, even their remastered CD’s are rare to find at music shops. These are the raw, soulful groups I get high on, I don’t mind mainstream bands but these types are something else.
7. DEAR DR. DOOM - 13th FLOOR ELEVATORS
Another 13th Floor Elevators song, from their ‘Bull of Woods’ album. Once again love the bass guitar, drums, and the great harmonies. In this song I also like the brass in the background. The lyrics and the harmonies make the song flow smooth like a river rolling downstream.
8. LIL’ RED RIDING HOOD - SAM THE SHAM AND THE PHARAOHS
This is fantastic song written by Sam the Sham & the Pharoaohs in 1966. It has a sexual connotation which I like, and is a metaphor of the fairy tale. Beautiful Little Red Riding Hood, watch out that big bad wolf wants you, to eat you up, but he has to wear that sheep skin over his head so you don’t get scared, but we all know what his intentions are, to eat you up, but sexually. A hot little tune that has been in a few films, with Bruce Willis when he was looking for this chick that no doubt, he wanted to consume. I have a few of Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs albums, there are a few Latin songs in there worth listening to, very unique band that had a unique stage act as well, when they were dressed up as Arabic sheiks.
9. SOMEBODY TO LOVE - JEFFERSON AIRPLANE
Jefferson Airplane were probably the most commercial and successful picks that I have included in this album, but I had to include them. I put them in because they were pioneers in the Psychedelic Rock movement in America in the mid 60’s. I really love this song, Grace Slick wrote the song when she was in a previous band called ‘The Great Society’. When she joined Jefferson Airplane, she brought over this song, and another called ‘White Rabbit’ which are both on the ‘Surrealistic Pillow’ album. Both these songs are in this collection. White Rabbit later on in this collection, is about drugs, and this song, well it’s just simply a classic. Grace Slick is a fantastic singer, there are other male members who sing in other songs, but not as effective as this chick.
10. FOX IS SICK - SAVAGE RESURRECTION
Savage Resurrection only had a two year history 1967-1968. Randy Hammon was only 16 years old as the main guitarist. The lead singer Bill Harper and Steve Lage bass guitar quit the group, and the band was never able to resurrect itself, it disbanded. This band have only come up with one album, but were well respected I their time. Good guitar on this song, good voice from Bill Harper. It has soul running thru this song, and has a heavy type of Jimi Hendrix feel about it, with nice bass lines thru it. Ends up with a bluesy run towards the end, which changes the direction of the songs tastefully.
11. IN THE PAST - THE CHOCOLATE WATCHBAND
The Chocolate Watchband are another interesting Psychedelic/Garage band from California that formed in 1965. Charismatic front man Danny Phay was leader singer for a few years. The band has gone thru many different line ups, and survived, and are still playing today. Sean Tolby has played in the many variations of the band during the 60’s. I have the three albums they did from 1967-1969. There are a few bootlegs as well. This song is a unique song John, as it has that smooth San Francesco jive. Sita in the beginning, vox organ, and the glockenspiel. Clackers, and other effects. Quite psychedelic, all of their albums, in addition have plenty of colourful artwork, of a surreal nature.
12. YOU’RE GONNA MISS ME - 13th FLOOR ELEVATORS
Another 13th Floor Elevators song, from their first album ‘Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators’. The song was written by Roky Erickson. Has got this Rolling Stones type of feel, and guitar licks. The ‘electric jug playing’ of Tommy Hall can especially be heard in this song, which adds to that psychedelic feel. I like this as it’s like a train that keeps going, and doesn’t stop at any stations. Nice harmonica in the end, and the screams of Erickson perfectly fitting.
13. JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE MIND - THE AMBOY DUKES
The Amboy Dukes were a Detroit band in the 60’s and early 70’s. it launched the career of Ted Nugent, the lead guitarist/vocalist. This song is fantastic, very catchy lyrics, and it really takes you for a journey to the centre of the mind. The line ups from 1964-1969 were the best for the band, Ted Nugent features as the main writer and co-writer in the band right thru this period. This song is taken from their 1968 album ‘Journey to the Center of the Mind’ nice bumpy bass guitar, fuzzy rhythm guitar, slick lead guitar. Great harmonies, vocals, lyrics, everyone is busy getting their respective destination as quickly as possible.
14. COME ON IN - THE MUSIC MACHINE
The Music Machine were an American Garage Rock/Psychedelic band from the 60’s. Sean Bonniwell was the main voice of the band. Mark Landon on guitar was exceptional. A special note to Doug Rhodes should be given who played the ‘Farfisa Organ’. I have two of their albums both done during the periods of 1966-1967. The ‘Farfisa Organ’ is very distinctive, it’s an organ that is made in Italy, and you can hear the Ethnic in the sound. Bonniwell’s voice is unique, he is a great composer, with creative lyrics. Nice Spanish guitar in one of the speakers if you listen closely, get into the Music Machine, they are a turn on musically.
15. INCENSE AND PEPPERMINTS - STRAWBERRY ALARM CLOCK
Interesting title to song, typically colourful Incense & Peppermints. The Strawberry Alarm Clock were an original band in Los Angeles in the 60’s. this band came about from another band called the ‘Thee Sixpence’, and went thru quite an elaborate line up change to become the Strawberry Alarm Clock. I like this song it’s a very well orchestrated. The keyboard player Mark Weitz had originally written the song as an instrumental. George Bummell bass, rhythm guitar/vocals added a lot of stability to the band. It’s a really good 60’s sound, good keyboards right thru, nice back up vocals, and harmonies. Warm instruments right thru. I think Mark weitz is a fantastic keyboard player.
16. INTERMISSION - BLUES MAGOOS
This is a very short song from the Blues Magoos. I put it in for fun, indicating we have gone half way thru this compilation, and like a live gig, it may be time for a short break, till the next numbers come in. it is taken out of the Blues Magoos album ‘Electric Comic Book’ album, which is a creative clever album. One of their songs was on ‘Easy Rider’ film, which means that they would have been well known in their time, although they didn’t get much success.
17. WHAT CAN I DO FOR YOU, FIRST HALF - THE OTHER HALF
The Other Half were a Psychedelic rock band in San Francesco in the 60’s. Randy Holden who they say was God of guitarists in his time, had just left the Sons of Adam. He had joined with Geoff Westen rhythm guitar/vocals and Larry Brown. Damy Woody on drums and Jeff Nolan on vocals, made this band a powerful unit. They brought out one album, several singles, and a few bootlegs. There was a reissued album with some rare tracks in 1982 called Mr Pharmacist. I love The Other Half, Randy Holden later on went and formed that great psychedelic band Blue Cheer in the 60’s.
18. THE EGYPTIAN - THE LITTER
This is a beautiful song done by The Litter. Very raw, ethnic type of chord progression, with wonderful lead guitar. The Litter formed in 1966 in Minneapolis, and weren’t very well known, but surprisingly enough have come up with plenty of studio albums. This song is taken from their ‘Distortions’ album as a bonus track. Beautiful guitar riffs, cute voice from the vocalist, sung very softly, and at some points you can hardly hear him sing the lyrics. The guitar stands out, the drumming, and the bass in the background. Has an ethnic flow about it, in the scales that the guitarist uses.
19. MALAGUENA - THE TRASHMEN
In keeping with the ethnic flow, this song Malaguena is added. It’s the only instrumental on this compilation album. The Trashmen were formed in Minneapolis in 1962, they have been responsible for influencing many later bands like the Ramones, The Cramps, and so on. Link Ray was an influence to the Tony Anderson lead guitarist. Dal Winslow is on guitar and vocals, along with Bob Reed bass guitar, and Steve Wahrer drums. Typical Garage Rock band, with a surf rock type of genre. I love the ethnicity of this song, listen to that Latin feel of Malaguena, a famous composition Ernesto Lucuona. Great time signature on drums, top rhythm, lead guitarist puts in a bit of a different touch to the lead, a surf type of lead guitar.
20. 96 TEARS - QUESTION MARK AND THE MYSTERIANS
One of my favourite bands again ? Mark & the Mysterians. This was the song that made the charts for them, and probably the only one. ? voice is fantastic, and the organ as per usual terrific. I have two verisons of this song, this one is from their original album ’96 Tears’, done in mono recording. And the other version is a much cleaner stereophonic version from their ‘More Action’ album done in 1966. Both are good, except this version you can hear the scratches and hisses on the mono playback. I chose this one for this collection, it’s more raw and interesting.
21. ARE YOU GONNA BE THERE - THE CHOCOLATE WATCH BAND
This is another Chocolate Watchband track from their ‘No Way Out’ album 1967. Although they formed in 1965, they came up with a lot of singles, and bootlegs before bringing this album out. The vocalist has a Mick Jagger type of tone, all these Jagger type of voices, they all must have gone to the same music teacher. Donald Bennet is a great lyricist.
22. EVERYNIGHT - THE HUMAN EXPRESSION
The Human Expression were a great Psychedelic Rock band from the 60’s from Los Angeles in 1966-1967. They made one album ‘Love at Psychedelic Velocity’, a few singles and compilation albums. I like this song, that droning, keyboards, the bass guitar going up and down the scales. The consistent drumming, with nice hi-hats. The voice of Jim Quarles is fantastic and distinctive. I like the way he raises his volume range in the chorus.
23. WHITE RABBIT - JEFFERSON AIRPLANE
This song from the Jefferson Airplane is a classic. I simply had to put it in. Grace Slick has a wonderful voice. It’s all about drugs, ‘The pill that makes you longer’, ‘Go ask Alice’, ‘Tell ‘em a hookah smoking caterpillar’, ‘And you’ve just had some mushroom, and you’re mind is moving slow.’ I have had all these before, sure it brings back memories, some good, some small. But in the end, Grace Slick’s ‘White Rabbit’ feeds your head with prescription and description. I really love the emotion in her voice, she sings so dramatically.
24. SOUL SEARCHIN - THE LITTER
From the ‘Distortions’ album, soul searchin is another track from The Litter. A bit of crackling in the ears, for that special 60’s authenticity. Nice guitar work, vocals, bass and drumming, very raw sound. The Litter doing a bit of soul searchin.
25. HAND JIVE - THE STRANGELOVES
This was an unusual American song writing team from New York in the 60’s, that pretended to be from Australia. Bob Feldman, Richard Gottenhrer and Jerry Goldstein formed The Strangeloves in 1964. This song is taken out of their 1965 album ‘I want Candy’. Nice guitar at the beginning with all three singing a nice groove. Good bass guitar, drums in one speaker, and saxophone in the other speaker. I like this fellows, good dance number.
26. RUN, RUN, RUN - THE GESTURES
The Gestures were a Garage Rock band from Minnesota, they formed in 1964, and broke up about a year or two later. This song has a nice crisp guitar, at a fast pace. Great vocals, and drumming. I don’t know how these sounds penetrated in America, there is such a British feel about it. The music consciousness of the 60’s was infectious all around the world, there was certainly similarities.
27. WHY IS A CARROT MORE ORANGE THAN AN ORANGE - THE AMBOY DUKES
Another track from The Amboy Dukes. I like the lyrics in this song. To come up with psychedelic lyrics you have to be daring and playful. Certainly Farmer who is the composer of this song, asks pertinent questions about spirituality. Rhythm is fantastic in this song, nice chord progressions, great harmonies. Ted Nugent is an exceptional guitarist.
28. BAD LITTLE WOMAN - SHADOWS OF KNIGHT
The Shadows of Knight were a Chicago based band, that played Garage Rock, and formed in 1964. Warren Rogers lead guitar, Roger Spielman rhythm guitar, Wayne Pursell bass guitar, Tom Schiffour drums, and Jim Sohns vocals, are the members of the three albums that I have in my collection. There has been quite a few changes in their line ups. Nice guitar in the beginning with an original effect. Great keyboards, that Doors sound. Fantastic voice from Jim Sohns, really effective speed up in the chorus. Really good 60’s sound.
29. THAT’S ALL FOLKS - BLUES MAGOOS
Just a short That’s all Folks from the Blues Magoos, taken from their playful 'Electric Comic Book’ album. All done in fun..
1. BARNYARD BLUES - 13th FLOOR ELEVATORS
13th Floor Elevators were an American psychedelic rock band from Austin, Texas. They were formed by guitarist and vocalist Roky Erickson, electric jug player Tommy Hall, and Stacy Sutherland. They existed between the years 1965-1969 and brought out four albums, of which I have them all. Tommy Hall was legendary, he would hold a ceramic bottle on the microphone, and blow in the bottle, it would resonate a distinctive sound, which added to the droning type of effect to many of their songs.
Listen to the cool bass in this song, that slick guitar. That mellow voice, laid back, colourful drums slick and consistent 60’s beat. Cool sounds of the 60’s groove, pure bluesy psychedelic local Austin, Texas, groove machine. We become familiar with the territory, and become more aware that this place was the hometown of such a unique 60’s psychedelic band.
2. DO YOU FEEL IT - QUESTION MARK AND THE MYSTERIANS
This is a great song. This band formed in 1962 in Michigan, it was a Latino group that played the Garage rock in ‘Proto Punk’ style. The band’s lead singer’s name was never verified, he went by the name of ? Question Mark. Hence the band was called Question Mark and the Mysterians. There is a fantastic keyboard player in the band, Frank Rodriguez which gives the band its distinctive signature. ? Question Mark has a terrific voice as well, and the guitarist Robert Balderrama is sensational. An all Mexican/American line up which I suppose makes their music all the more special because of their ethnic roots. I have three tracks in this collection, because they impress me. 96 Tears was almost their only best known hit. They did have a huge cult following for a Garage Rock band of their time. Check out this song, if it won't get you up dancing, I don’t know what will. This is the sort of song, you put on when you have a woman around, and you watch her shake. Really great 60’s groove. Feel that pumping and thumping bass guitar going through the song, it sounds great.
3. SHE’S COMING HOME - BLUES MAGOOS
The Blues Magoos were a band from New York, that were well respected in the 60’s. Ralph Scala keyboards/vocals, and Emil ‘Peppy’ Thielham on guitar/vocals, were the main writers of the band. They out four or five albums, and a few compilations in the 60’s, but they never enjoyed any commercial success. Psychedelic music had a small following and wasn’t mainstream enough for everyone to cash into it. The Blues Magoos have re-united after 40 years since their last album, and are currently doing a world tour. Psychedelic music has become popular in the world, and more and more people are getting back into it. This song has a great feel. Has a bit of that Doors feel. Of course this band were around long before the Doors, and if anything influenced the Doors. I believe their unique raw Garage Rock feel influenced a lot of the mainstream commercial bands that became successful. I mean, you can’t have every band making it, there has to be a few that miss out, and unfortunately this band did, and they did have genuine talent.
4. LOUIE LOUIE - THE KINGSMEN
One of my personal favourites. The Kingsmen were a terrific American Garage band. Probably known for their great main hit in 1963, Louie Louie, but I have a few of their albums which feature many tasteful delicacies, of which I can’t understand why didn’t they make it as well. Anyway, no doubt Louie Louie is a classic, and many bands have tried to cover it, but no one plays it as well as the original. I love the lazy lyrics, and the lazy way the vocalist sings the song, and the guitarist Jack Ely. Don Galluci on the electric piano gives a distinctive sound, look at all these ethnic names John, they are always popping up here and there. Louie flows wonderfully, and the song reminds me of a character that is a street guy, don’t you think it’s a great song for the 1963 period? A lot different to the poppy love songs the Beatles were bringing out.
5. KNOCK KNOCK - THE HUMANE SOCIETY
The Human Society is a psychedelic punk group formed in 1965. It was discovered by well known producers while the band were performing on the street on a flatbed truck parked outside a local record store. This song Knock, Knock is celebrated as a savage, disarmingly deep and instinctive foundation of proto-punk genius. Listen to the tambourine clinging, and the great guitar twanging, and the tremolo keyboards in the background. Great vocals, that seem as if the words are improvised, then the way the song speeds up, typical early roots of early punk. I reckon this band is very original, they weren’t together very long, but for the short period they were I have a few of their songs, very raw and original, they are very inspiring.
6. GO TO - QUESTION MARK AND THE MYSTERIANS
Another song from ? & the Mysterians. Great voice from ? a bit like a Doors number. You can see Manzarek would have got inspiration from this band, they were long before the Doors were around. I have a few of this band’s records, but they are rare to find, and the quality of their bootlegs a bit ordinary, even their remastered CD’s are rare to find at music shops. These are the raw, soulful groups I get high on, I don’t mind mainstream bands but these types are something else.
7. DEAR DR. DOOM - 13th FLOOR ELEVATORS
Another 13th Floor Elevators song, from their ‘Bull of Woods’ album. Once again love the bass guitar, drums, and the great harmonies. In this song I also like the brass in the background. The lyrics and the harmonies make the song flow smooth like a river rolling downstream.
8. LIL’ RED RIDING HOOD - SAM THE SHAM AND THE PHARAOHS
This is fantastic song written by Sam the Sham & the Pharoaohs in 1966. It has a sexual connotation which I like, and is a metaphor of the fairy tale. Beautiful Little Red Riding Hood, watch out that big bad wolf wants you, to eat you up, but he has to wear that sheep skin over his head so you don’t get scared, but we all know what his intentions are, to eat you up, but sexually. A hot little tune that has been in a few films, with Bruce Willis when he was looking for this chick that no doubt, he wanted to consume. I have a few of Sam the Sham & the Pharaohs albums, there are a few Latin songs in there worth listening to, very unique band that had a unique stage act as well, when they were dressed up as Arabic sheiks.
9. SOMEBODY TO LOVE - JEFFERSON AIRPLANE
Jefferson Airplane were probably the most commercial and successful picks that I have included in this album, but I had to include them. I put them in because they were pioneers in the Psychedelic Rock movement in America in the mid 60’s. I really love this song, Grace Slick wrote the song when she was in a previous band called ‘The Great Society’. When she joined Jefferson Airplane, she brought over this song, and another called ‘White Rabbit’ which are both on the ‘Surrealistic Pillow’ album. Both these songs are in this collection. White Rabbit later on in this collection, is about drugs, and this song, well it’s just simply a classic. Grace Slick is a fantastic singer, there are other male members who sing in other songs, but not as effective as this chick.
10. FOX IS SICK - SAVAGE RESURRECTION
Savage Resurrection only had a two year history 1967-1968. Randy Hammon was only 16 years old as the main guitarist. The lead singer Bill Harper and Steve Lage bass guitar quit the group, and the band was never able to resurrect itself, it disbanded. This band have only come up with one album, but were well respected I their time. Good guitar on this song, good voice from Bill Harper. It has soul running thru this song, and has a heavy type of Jimi Hendrix feel about it, with nice bass lines thru it. Ends up with a bluesy run towards the end, which changes the direction of the songs tastefully.
11. IN THE PAST - THE CHOCOLATE WATCHBAND
The Chocolate Watchband are another interesting Psychedelic/Garage band from California that formed in 1965. Charismatic front man Danny Phay was leader singer for a few years. The band has gone thru many different line ups, and survived, and are still playing today. Sean Tolby has played in the many variations of the band during the 60’s. I have the three albums they did from 1967-1969. There are a few bootlegs as well. This song is a unique song John, as it has that smooth San Francesco jive. Sita in the beginning, vox organ, and the glockenspiel. Clackers, and other effects. Quite psychedelic, all of their albums, in addition have plenty of colourful artwork, of a surreal nature.
12. YOU’RE GONNA MISS ME - 13th FLOOR ELEVATORS
Another 13th Floor Elevators song, from their first album ‘Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators’. The song was written by Roky Erickson. Has got this Rolling Stones type of feel, and guitar licks. The ‘electric jug playing’ of Tommy Hall can especially be heard in this song, which adds to that psychedelic feel. I like this as it’s like a train that keeps going, and doesn’t stop at any stations. Nice harmonica in the end, and the screams of Erickson perfectly fitting.
13. JOURNEY TO THE CENTER OF THE MIND - THE AMBOY DUKES
The Amboy Dukes were a Detroit band in the 60’s and early 70’s. it launched the career of Ted Nugent, the lead guitarist/vocalist. This song is fantastic, very catchy lyrics, and it really takes you for a journey to the centre of the mind. The line ups from 1964-1969 were the best for the band, Ted Nugent features as the main writer and co-writer in the band right thru this period. This song is taken from their 1968 album ‘Journey to the Center of the Mind’ nice bumpy bass guitar, fuzzy rhythm guitar, slick lead guitar. Great harmonies, vocals, lyrics, everyone is busy getting their respective destination as quickly as possible.
14. COME ON IN - THE MUSIC MACHINE
The Music Machine were an American Garage Rock/Psychedelic band from the 60’s. Sean Bonniwell was the main voice of the band. Mark Landon on guitar was exceptional. A special note to Doug Rhodes should be given who played the ‘Farfisa Organ’. I have two of their albums both done during the periods of 1966-1967. The ‘Farfisa Organ’ is very distinctive, it’s an organ that is made in Italy, and you can hear the Ethnic in the sound. Bonniwell’s voice is unique, he is a great composer, with creative lyrics. Nice Spanish guitar in one of the speakers if you listen closely, get into the Music Machine, they are a turn on musically.
15. INCENSE AND PEPPERMINTS - STRAWBERRY ALARM CLOCK
Interesting title to song, typically colourful Incense & Peppermints. The Strawberry Alarm Clock were an original band in Los Angeles in the 60’s. this band came about from another band called the ‘Thee Sixpence’, and went thru quite an elaborate line up change to become the Strawberry Alarm Clock. I like this song it’s a very well orchestrated. The keyboard player Mark Weitz had originally written the song as an instrumental. George Bummell bass, rhythm guitar/vocals added a lot of stability to the band. It’s a really good 60’s sound, good keyboards right thru, nice back up vocals, and harmonies. Warm instruments right thru. I think Mark weitz is a fantastic keyboard player.
16. INTERMISSION - BLUES MAGOOS
This is a very short song from the Blues Magoos. I put it in for fun, indicating we have gone half way thru this compilation, and like a live gig, it may be time for a short break, till the next numbers come in. it is taken out of the Blues Magoos album ‘Electric Comic Book’ album, which is a creative clever album. One of their songs was on ‘Easy Rider’ film, which means that they would have been well known in their time, although they didn’t get much success.
17. WHAT CAN I DO FOR YOU, FIRST HALF - THE OTHER HALF
The Other Half were a Psychedelic rock band in San Francesco in the 60’s. Randy Holden who they say was God of guitarists in his time, had just left the Sons of Adam. He had joined with Geoff Westen rhythm guitar/vocals and Larry Brown. Damy Woody on drums and Jeff Nolan on vocals, made this band a powerful unit. They brought out one album, several singles, and a few bootlegs. There was a reissued album with some rare tracks in 1982 called Mr Pharmacist. I love The Other Half, Randy Holden later on went and formed that great psychedelic band Blue Cheer in the 60’s.
18. THE EGYPTIAN - THE LITTER
This is a beautiful song done by The Litter. Very raw, ethnic type of chord progression, with wonderful lead guitar. The Litter formed in 1966 in Minneapolis, and weren’t very well known, but surprisingly enough have come up with plenty of studio albums. This song is taken from their ‘Distortions’ album as a bonus track. Beautiful guitar riffs, cute voice from the vocalist, sung very softly, and at some points you can hardly hear him sing the lyrics. The guitar stands out, the drumming, and the bass in the background. Has an ethnic flow about it, in the scales that the guitarist uses.
19. MALAGUENA - THE TRASHMEN
In keeping with the ethnic flow, this song Malaguena is added. It’s the only instrumental on this compilation album. The Trashmen were formed in Minneapolis in 1962, they have been responsible for influencing many later bands like the Ramones, The Cramps, and so on. Link Ray was an influence to the Tony Anderson lead guitarist. Dal Winslow is on guitar and vocals, along with Bob Reed bass guitar, and Steve Wahrer drums. Typical Garage Rock band, with a surf rock type of genre. I love the ethnicity of this song, listen to that Latin feel of Malaguena, a famous composition Ernesto Lucuona. Great time signature on drums, top rhythm, lead guitarist puts in a bit of a different touch to the lead, a surf type of lead guitar.
20. 96 TEARS - QUESTION MARK AND THE MYSTERIANS
One of my favourite bands again ? Mark & the Mysterians. This was the song that made the charts for them, and probably the only one. ? voice is fantastic, and the organ as per usual terrific. I have two verisons of this song, this one is from their original album ’96 Tears’, done in mono recording. And the other version is a much cleaner stereophonic version from their ‘More Action’ album done in 1966. Both are good, except this version you can hear the scratches and hisses on the mono playback. I chose this one for this collection, it’s more raw and interesting.
21. ARE YOU GONNA BE THERE - THE CHOCOLATE WATCH BAND
This is another Chocolate Watchband track from their ‘No Way Out’ album 1967. Although they formed in 1965, they came up with a lot of singles, and bootlegs before bringing this album out. The vocalist has a Mick Jagger type of tone, all these Jagger type of voices, they all must have gone to the same music teacher. Donald Bennet is a great lyricist.
22. EVERYNIGHT - THE HUMAN EXPRESSION
The Human Expression were a great Psychedelic Rock band from the 60’s from Los Angeles in 1966-1967. They made one album ‘Love at Psychedelic Velocity’, a few singles and compilation albums. I like this song, that droning, keyboards, the bass guitar going up and down the scales. The consistent drumming, with nice hi-hats. The voice of Jim Quarles is fantastic and distinctive. I like the way he raises his volume range in the chorus.
23. WHITE RABBIT - JEFFERSON AIRPLANE
This song from the Jefferson Airplane is a classic. I simply had to put it in. Grace Slick has a wonderful voice. It’s all about drugs, ‘The pill that makes you longer’, ‘Go ask Alice’, ‘Tell ‘em a hookah smoking caterpillar’, ‘And you’ve just had some mushroom, and you’re mind is moving slow.’ I have had all these before, sure it brings back memories, some good, some small. But in the end, Grace Slick’s ‘White Rabbit’ feeds your head with prescription and description. I really love the emotion in her voice, she sings so dramatically.
24. SOUL SEARCHIN - THE LITTER
From the ‘Distortions’ album, soul searchin is another track from The Litter. A bit of crackling in the ears, for that special 60’s authenticity. Nice guitar work, vocals, bass and drumming, very raw sound. The Litter doing a bit of soul searchin.
25. HAND JIVE - THE STRANGELOVES
This was an unusual American song writing team from New York in the 60’s, that pretended to be from Australia. Bob Feldman, Richard Gottenhrer and Jerry Goldstein formed The Strangeloves in 1964. This song is taken out of their 1965 album ‘I want Candy’. Nice guitar at the beginning with all three singing a nice groove. Good bass guitar, drums in one speaker, and saxophone in the other speaker. I like this fellows, good dance number.
26. RUN, RUN, RUN - THE GESTURES
The Gestures were a Garage Rock band from Minnesota, they formed in 1964, and broke up about a year or two later. This song has a nice crisp guitar, at a fast pace. Great vocals, and drumming. I don’t know how these sounds penetrated in America, there is such a British feel about it. The music consciousness of the 60’s was infectious all around the world, there was certainly similarities.
27. WHY IS A CARROT MORE ORANGE THAN AN ORANGE - THE AMBOY DUKES
Another track from The Amboy Dukes. I like the lyrics in this song. To come up with psychedelic lyrics you have to be daring and playful. Certainly Farmer who is the composer of this song, asks pertinent questions about spirituality. Rhythm is fantastic in this song, nice chord progressions, great harmonies. Ted Nugent is an exceptional guitarist.
28. BAD LITTLE WOMAN - SHADOWS OF KNIGHT
The Shadows of Knight were a Chicago based band, that played Garage Rock, and formed in 1964. Warren Rogers lead guitar, Roger Spielman rhythm guitar, Wayne Pursell bass guitar, Tom Schiffour drums, and Jim Sohns vocals, are the members of the three albums that I have in my collection. There has been quite a few changes in their line ups. Nice guitar in the beginning with an original effect. Great keyboards, that Doors sound. Fantastic voice from Jim Sohns, really effective speed up in the chorus. Really good 60’s sound.
29. THAT’S ALL FOLKS - BLUES MAGOOS
Just a short That’s all Folks from the Blues Magoos, taken from their playful 'Electric Comic Book’ album. All done in fun..
PSYCHEDELIC SOUNDS OF THE 60'S volume iv1. Ride - Caravan
2. Why Am I So Short - Soft Machine 3. Twisted Flower - Cold Sun 4. You Can't Ever Come Down - Joe Byrd and the Field Hippies 5. Who's to Blame - Azitis . 6. Heresy (Coming Down) - The United States of America 7. Eight Miles High - Byrds 8. Wayfaring Stranger - H.P. Lovecraft 9. Night Sounds Loud - Clear Light 10. 2000 Light Years From Home - The Rolling Stones 11. As the Moon Speaks - Captain Beyond 12. Tadpole - Mandrake Memorial 13. You Upset The Grace Of Living - Gandalf 14. Clipping The 8th - Caravan 15. Possession - Iron Butterfly 16. Mind Machine - Hunger 17. A House Is Not A Motel - Love 18. Winds Have Changed - Music Emporium 19. Poor Richard - Spirit 20. Born Cross-Eyed - The Greatful Dead 21. Soon Soon Soon - Kevin Ayers 22. Unconscious Power - Iron Butterfly 23. Long years in space - Neighb’rhood Child’n 24. Fugue In D Minor - Egg 25. Outer Temple - Gong 26. Beatle Bones 'N' Smokin' Stones - Captain Q Beefheart & His Magic Band 27. The Surrealist Waltz - Pearls Before Swine |
COMMENTARY ON PSYCHEDELIC SOUNDS OF THE 60’S VOLUME IV WRITTEN BY (ANDREW IOANNIDIS)
What we have here in this Volume IV collection, is an exceptional Psychedelic compilation of 60’s music. I have been very meticulous to select tracks from a series of albums that I have, that I believe should be the icing in the cake. The previous volumes were necessary as to give a broad spectrum of this unique genre. Now we have come to the cream of the crop, as from now on in history, psychedelic music went through an interesting transition into ‘Progressive Rock’ that started to dominate the scene in the early 70’s. The majority of the songs in this collection were released between 1967 – 1968, with the exception of ‘Eight Miles High’ from the Byrds, which was in their debut album in 1966.
I am going to give a running commentary , so please listen to the music very closely, and also please listen to each song from start to finish, they are not very long songs, no song goes for over three and a half minutes. Be patient, and wait for magic to appear, each effect is revolutionary, each progression highly complex. In this collection, as the songs were recorded in the late 60’s, I wanted to bring to your attention at that time, ‘bass guitar’ became a feature in each track, and ‘drums’ ruled supreme as far as keeping tight rhythms, you can say architecturally these 2 vital instruments are the ‘foundation’ of the building fabric. Keyboards feature here very prominently in this album, particularly the ‘organ’. And by organ I mean the ‘hammond’, ‘vox’, and ‘moog’ organs. Any other synthesizers were used for the purpose of special effects. There are a few more commercial succeeding bands, but not many, mainly the Rolling Stones, and Byrds, the rest of the bands had very little commercial success. I included these bands, as their contribution which usually consisted of one psychedelic album out of their huge collection of mainstream albums, was unique, and held in high esteem.
1. RIDE - CARAVAN
This band is from Cantebury in Britain. They formed part of the ‘Canterbury Scene’, look it up if you have time, this scene was amazing to say the least. So many great English bands came out of this scene, and were a marvellous progression into ‘Progressive Rock’.
Caravan to me are an extremely professional unit. Former members of Wilde Flowers, of whom consisted quite a few members that started terrific bands from these humble beginnings. Very Middle Eastern in flavour, Pye Hastings on vocals is a maestro. He is classically trained, and has an amazing vocal capacity.
I love the drum in the beginning, with tabla blending in. Hastings voice is so sweet, sung in the key of E minor. The guitar riffs that come after he has sung his verse are powerful, and the ‘moog’ organ effective, colourful. The Beatles in my mind really didn’t match the Middle Eastern feel like this band did. There is all this talk how great The Beatles ‘within without’ was with the sitar and drumming on the Sgt Peppers album, sure it was OK, but hey, did it really have the ‘emotion’ that this band were capable of producing. David Sinclair on organ was terrific, Richard Sinclair on bass, and Richard Couglan on drums were very original. This band is still playing today, although they didn’t have the success that other bands did, speaks volumes. I hope to go and see Caravan in Britain, they do a lot of touring in Europe, it’s one of my dreams, I have to see them live. I absolutely adore their music.
2. WHY AM I SO SHORT - SOFT MACHINE
Another Canterbury scene band, which had a little bit more success than Caravan, but not that much more. Kevin Ayers bass guitarist and vocalist, and Robert Wyatt on drums are a dynamic duet in this band. The band was formed in 1966, with the other founding members Mike Ratledge (organ), and Daevid Allen (guitar) an Australian musician.
Kevin Ayers did a lot of the ‘baritone’ vocals, while Robert Wyatt who is currently mainly singing on this song, sang ‘tenor’. Wyatt has a very soft voice, and I love the way he sings, typically English, a lot of the Soft Machine tracks that feature his voice are special. It is a very short song, as the next track after this one is a doozy. It goes for about 10 minutes, with an extraordinary complex arrangement of music, Wyatt, rattles on as he always does, with humour and finesse.
Magnificent bass on this song. And the organ that goes ta ta ta ta ta at the beginning, before the bass and drums come in, is pure class from Mike Ratledge, very ‘dramatic’, you haven’t heard any real good psychedelics till you pay attention to Soft Machine.
3. TWISTED FLOWER - COLD SUN
A very under rated band. This band is another Austin Texas band from the 60’s. They recorded one album, then they split up due to complications with the industries contractual arrangements. Billy Miller on vocals is fantastic. He wrote all the songs to their only album. He also played the ‘Auto Harp’, which is an electronic ‘harp’. I love the guitars the way they go up and down the scales, I think Ray Manzerak would have been influenced from the keyboard flow, I wouldn’t be surprised if Robby Krieger wrote ‘Light my Fire’ from the way this band Cold Sun did their arrangements. This song flows like liquid, really surreal, great songs to dance with on their one and only album ‘Dark Shadows’.
4. YOU CAN’T EVER COME DOWN - JOE BYRD AND THE FIELD HIPPIES
Joseph ‘Joe’ Byrd (organ) was the main writer and conductor of the band. He always had female vocalists in his bands. He was also part of another band which I have featured in this compilation ‘The United States of America’.
Christie Thompson main vocalist on this album is fantastic, and her back up vocalist, another female Victoria Bond, this sound was recorded in 1968. Joe Byrd was a magician, real 60’s sound, was always orchestrated, with wonderful effects , be patient, and allow Byrd’s effects to come to the surface towards the end of this song, it’s like a trip into the Twilight Zone.
5. WHO’S TO BLAME - AZITIS
Don Lower vocals, bass guitar, and main writer runs the show in their one and only album. This is a USA band, that thought about their music, they wanted to make sure they had a message. One of the very first Christian Psychedelic bands of the 60’s. The bass guitar fantastic from Lower, Dennis Sullivan on organ and piano, terrific on all the tracks on their album. Michael Welch on lead guitar, and Steve Nelson on drums form the final formula in this quartet.
Simple message, great repetitive melody, and lovely flute as well. Azitis were very original, they were ready to become big in the States, till Sullivan got very afraid of success, and where the band was going as far as their popularity, and vanished without a trace, no reason why he left the band, and the band disbanded. It was an organ based band, and as far as the members were concerned, he could not be replaced.
6. HERESY - THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Joseph Byrd once again, influencing this band which was formed in 1967. Once again Byrd’s desire to have female vocals made the psychedelic sounds ‘sexy’, these chicks were hip, just like Grace Slick from the Jefferson Airplane. Rand Forbes played ‘fretless bass’ in this band, Craig Woodson drums, and Gordon Marron electric violin. Dorothy Moskowitz is the female vocalist, that Byrd has selected. Once again Byrd is very well respected as a Psychedelic keyboard player and composer.
7. EIGHT MILES HIGH - BYRDS
Los Angeles band, everyone has heard about the Byrds. But did many know that the first 2 albums from the Byrds, recorded in in 1966, and early 1967, are Psychedelic masterpieces. Everyone relates the Byrds to Mr Tamborine man, Bob Dylan’s song, but that was much later, when the band decided to go more folk. They started as a psychedelic band with amazing talent, how they went folk after that I will never know.
Roger MGunn lead guitar and vocals was a great writer and leader. David Crosby on rhythm guitar was also good with his vocals. I really like the corny guitar on this song, I believe MGunn is playing with a ‘Rickenbecker’ guitar, or he has this strange effect running thru his guitar. Great feel, and really good song to dance to as well.
8. WAYFARING STRANGER - H.P. LOVECRAFT
The music continues, and it is all about this flow, the colourful organs, the great bass riffs, and the busy drums. What I like about the songs that I have selected so far, is that the vocals are great, there is always a few doing the vocals which leads to fantastic harmonies. H.P. Lovecraft are a Chicago based band. George Edwards vocal harmonies, and Dave Michaels who is classically trained combine really well.
9. NIGHT SOUNDS LOUD - CLEAR LIGHT
A Los Angeles based band formed in 1966. Dough Lobahn, guitar, vocals has a very distinctive voice. Dallas Taylor on drums is really good as well. Guitars, and keyboards blend in well. I like the rhythm, and the colour of the instruments, I have about 6 of Clear Light albums, and every time a listen to each one, I find something else interesting in their arrangements all the time.
10. 2000 LIGHT YEARS FROM HOME - THE ROLLING STONES
I have put this song in, as any serious psychedelic listener would put this song in most definitely. It is from a 1967 album of theirs the only psychedelic sound called the ‘Satanic Majesties Request’. It shows the brilliance of the Stones, when they put their minds to it.
Also what features here is the ‘Mellotron’ organ. (An electro-mechanical polyphonic tape replay keyboard). It was played by Brian Jones, who also played the sitar, and various other instruments. The song was written by Mick Jagger when he served a temporary jail sentence for possession of drugs.
I hope you all appreciate this song, great drum beat from Charlie Watts, fantastic effects, transistor etc, from Brian Jones, catchy melody, dreamy lyrics and voices, bass guitar worth a mention from Billy Wyman. Be patient, allow the Rolling Stones to finish their song, with the effects that they are incorporating.
11. AS THE MOON SPEAKS - CAPTAIN BEYOND
Captain Beyond is a Los Angeles based band. Rod Evans has a distinctive vocal range, probably ahead of his time. Bobby Caldwell is an exceptional drummer. The drum solo at the end of the song, you feel like hearing more of. Well this is so on this album. This band also did something similar to Soft Machine, they would have extended musical arrangements after a short vocal song prior. I like this band, all their songs were original, really sophisticated arrangements, very accomplished musicians.
12. TADPOLE - MANDRAKE MEMORIAL
Mandrake Memorial is a USA based band from the 60’s. I love Randy Monacco’s voice, he wrote all the songs on this particular album. I like the way he bends his notes in his vocals range. Tadpole is only a short song, but it gives you an idea how his voice would sound with all their other songs on the album. Kevin Lally on drums plays this marching type of beat. Michael Kac’s guitar riffs are magic, Craig Anderson who plays the sitar, and many other effects including keyboards is very talented.
Monacco has a beautiful voice, and lyrical content. They only brought out a few albums, I love the Mandrake Memorial, I even like the triangle that is hit at certain parts of the song, great ending, and effects at the end.
13. YOU UPSET THE GRACE OF LIVING - GANDALF
Peter Sando’s voice in this band, gives this band a rich distinctive flavour. I love Frank Hubach’s organ, once again only one album from this band, a USA psychedelic band of the 60’s. David Bower on drums, and John please notice the rolls that all these drummers portray, that is prevalent with most songs on this album. You will notice how these drummers are exceptional, as they follow the vocalists and their stories and messages. Just listen to Sando and how he is singing, and listen to the drums, and you will see an amazing interaction. The singer is singing, and the drummer is also answering, the beat, is talking back to the singer. Good drummers follow the lead vocalists, and have wonderful replies with the percussive rolls, THAT INCIDENTALLY THESE DAYS IS NON EXISTANT. DRUMMERS THESE DAYS KEEP A VERY BASIC BEAT, RIGHT THRU, AND DON’T HAVE ANY COMMUNICATION WITH THE LEAD VOCALS. IT REALLY IS TRAGIC, MUSIC IS GOING DOWN THE GURGLER.
Hey, that’s why I can relate to this music, as these musicians understood synergy, you must understand that Pop music as a genre, can be too lollipop, and the credibility of the quality of musicianship is questionable. That’s why I respect Jazz and blues as genres, as there is no questioning the feel, and the musical responsibility of each musician.
14. CLIPPING THE 8TH - CARAVAN
Yes, you guessed it, this band again Caravan. Pye Hastings voice is adorable. In the first song you heard, it was tenor, look at it now, it has gone baritone. Super talented bloke as far as I am concerned, I love Caravan they are very original. I love the clippers it is like clockwork in this song, listen very closely, very English, very Canterbury, great guitars, good organ, bass, drums, triangles, effects. ONE THING THIS BAND WILL ALWAYS GIVE YOU, IT IS ‘EMOTION’ IN THEIR MUSIC. Every song has an impact, I still don’t understand why they couldn't make it commercially.
15. POSSESSION - IRON BUTTERFLY
When you finally hear Doug Ingle’s voice, you ask yourself how wonderful how he accentuates his vocals. Iron Butterfly are a San Diego USA band formed in 1966. Doug Ingle also plays organ in the band.
HOW HAUNTING, it is like something out of the Munsters, or the Addams Family. I love his organ work, it gives Iron Butterfly their trademark. A mention of Danny Weis on guitar, and Jack Punney on drums, fantastic band.
‘ITS POSSE-EEE--SS – ION’ I love the way they drag their notes when they sing.Doug Ingle is one of my favourite Psychedelic singers, I love the eerie way he expresses himself.
16. MIND MACHINE - HUNGER
Well I played you my 3 favourite vocalists, NOW THE GROOVE CONTINUES. And this is the psychedelic groove. Hunger is a band from Portland Oregon that also released ONE ALBUM. And if you heard the album, you will ask me what is it with these bands? Imagine if we heard more. This is a five piece band, all very accomplished musicians, not to be seen again in any way shape or form. This band was particularly intimidated by the mainstream popularity. They became popular, as enthusiasts noticed, they were another short lived band, that come up with one album, a single, or like a lot of cases no tape or record of any type, but memories, and perhaps a very rough bootleg missing in the archives. I like Hunger, as the album that I have, their talent shines right thru.
17. A HOUSE IS NOT A HOTEL - LOVE
This band is a terrific outfit. Arthur Lee is the main vocalist, driving force, writer and inspiration. His collaboration Johnny Echols ( lead guitar) is unique. The 2 very first albums they brought out in 1966 and 1967, ‘De Capo’, and ‘Forever Changes’, are psychedelic collectors classics. On the strength of these albums, the reputation of Love was respected in the USA. I love Arthur Lee’s voice and his lyrics, simply brilliant. Great lead break as well in this song.
18. WINDS HAVE CHANGED - MUSIC EMPORIUM
Music Emporium is another chicky babe vocal band. From the USA formed in 1967. All these chicks sang, quite amazing. It was a five piece band, four were women, the guitarist Dave Dadwin was the only guy in the band. Dora Wahl played the drums, and incidentally played very well, listen to her rolls buddy, Jan Erro was the main singer, Maureen Tucker played the organ, and Carolyn Lee played the bass guitar. All four sang, while Dave quietly did his thing on the lead guitar. Lovely harmonies, ‘Winds have changed’ is a wonderful song, and the album that it was taken from, there are some other magnificent tracks, that when played over and over make you appreciate the majesty of this mainly all chick psychedelic band.
19. POOR RICHARD - SPIRIT
Spirit were formed in Los Angeles in 1967. It was a five piece band. Randy California was the main vocalist and guitarist. Ed Cassidy drums, John Lode on keyboards, Mark Andes on bass, Jay Ferguson vocals, percussion. They were a psychedelic band that performed a lot of their gigs in the State of California. They also come up with 3 to 4 albums in their time. Randy California has written most of the material for the band. They were renowned for using bass riffs as the main melody in their songs. Nice harmonies on this song, Jay Ferguson and Randy California worked prolifically on tightening that act in all their songs.
20. BORN CROSS EYED - GRATEFUL DEAD
San Francisco based band. The Grateful Dead were also a band, that were vocals orientated like Spirit. Jerry Garcia guitar, main vocals, Bob Weir, guitar, vocals, Ron Mckernan keyboards, vocals, Phil Lesh bass, vocals, Bill Kreutzman drums. Everyone in this band sang except the drummer. They are also popular for their intricate artistic album cover designs, very surreal each one of them.
21. SOON SOON SOON - KEVIN AYERS
Kevin Ayers has already been mentioned as the founder of the Soft Machine. When we talk about Psychedelic, we have to include Kevin Ayers, as he was one of the consistent players of this genre right thru out his distinguished career. He has this baritone voice, and countless and numerous songs that relate to this genre all original. I like this track, as it shows the versatility of this extraordinary artist.
22. UNCONSCIOUS POWER - IRON BUTTERFLY
Once again another track of one of my favourite bands Iron Butterfly. I love their organ work, and the feel they have in their songs. I like the way they accentuate certain passages in their vocal harmony. Great guitar work, fantastic bass, and beautiful organ and drums. Iron Butterfly always put you in a good mood, all of their songs are very interesting, highly original, and consistently good.
23. LONG YEARS IN SPACE - NEIGHBORHOOD CHILDREN
This band originated from San Francisco. They were around from 1963 – 1970, and came up with quite a few albums during that time. Dyan Hoffman main vocals, and keyboards, sang and wrote most of the tracks in their music. Females can be quite effective in Psychedelic music, and Dyan Hoffman is exceptional. She has a terrific range with her voice, and was greatly admired and respected amongst her piers during the 60’s.
24. FUGUE IN D MINOR - EGG
Egg is another Canterbury scene British band. I have included a few Cantebury scene bands, as these were the most innovative type during the Psychedelic genre. This song is a cover done psychedelically from Sebastian Bach. I love the drums on this number, and the bass guitar. Of course the organ work is exceptional, Dave Stewart on the organ is fantastic. Mont Campbell on bass, Clive Brooks on drums. These musicians have been classically trained, and that shows in all their albums, highly intricate and complex progressions with all their songs.
25. OUTER TEMPLE - GONG
Gong is another Cantebury scene band that were formed in 1967. It is a five piece band, with Australian musician Daevid Allen in this band as well. Just a short song, quite humorous, ‘Would you Like some tea’, and you can hear the tea being poured in the cup. All of Gong’s music was unique, with lots of instruments, plenty of effects, brass, string, and keyboards. Their albums are worth listening to, very clever arrangements.
26. BEATLE BONES ‘N’ SMOKIN STONES - CAPTAIN BEEFHEART
Don Van Vliet is Captain Beefheart’s real name, from the USA. This artist is exceptional. Even John Lennon admired this bloke. This guy was very good mates with Frank Zappa, they were mates from teenagers. Captain Beefheart started his Magic Band in 1965 – 1982. This song is a send up of the Beatles and the Stones. He has a very distinctive voice, ‘Strawberry Fields Forever”, he has a go at, as he doesn’t think much of the Beatle lyrics and songs. He has a go at the Stones as well, a lot of his music is Blues, Jazz, Fusion, and Psychedelics all in one. I have a few of his albums, and all his stuff is controversial, but very clever, he is a very talented man.
27. THE SURREALIST WALTZ - PEARLS BEFORE SWINE
I really like this band which formed in the USA in 1965. The group name was created from a ‘Bible Passage’. This song that was taken from their 1968 album release ‘Balaklava’, is one of the most sort out Psychedelic albums. Tom Rapp is the main leader of the group. A lot of the music they wrote was very ‘emotional’, they incorporated musical instruments that would give that flavour. All very accomplished musicians, an organ based band, with very original concepts. I like the marching drums on this song which gives it this Waltz type of feel. Most of the songs on this particular album are very surreal and majestic. Tom Rapp is a tremendous singer with a sweet voice.
What we have here in this Volume IV collection, is an exceptional Psychedelic compilation of 60’s music. I have been very meticulous to select tracks from a series of albums that I have, that I believe should be the icing in the cake. The previous volumes were necessary as to give a broad spectrum of this unique genre. Now we have come to the cream of the crop, as from now on in history, psychedelic music went through an interesting transition into ‘Progressive Rock’ that started to dominate the scene in the early 70’s. The majority of the songs in this collection were released between 1967 – 1968, with the exception of ‘Eight Miles High’ from the Byrds, which was in their debut album in 1966.
I am going to give a running commentary , so please listen to the music very closely, and also please listen to each song from start to finish, they are not very long songs, no song goes for over three and a half minutes. Be patient, and wait for magic to appear, each effect is revolutionary, each progression highly complex. In this collection, as the songs were recorded in the late 60’s, I wanted to bring to your attention at that time, ‘bass guitar’ became a feature in each track, and ‘drums’ ruled supreme as far as keeping tight rhythms, you can say architecturally these 2 vital instruments are the ‘foundation’ of the building fabric. Keyboards feature here very prominently in this album, particularly the ‘organ’. And by organ I mean the ‘hammond’, ‘vox’, and ‘moog’ organs. Any other synthesizers were used for the purpose of special effects. There are a few more commercial succeeding bands, but not many, mainly the Rolling Stones, and Byrds, the rest of the bands had very little commercial success. I included these bands, as their contribution which usually consisted of one psychedelic album out of their huge collection of mainstream albums, was unique, and held in high esteem.
1. RIDE - CARAVAN
This band is from Cantebury in Britain. They formed part of the ‘Canterbury Scene’, look it up if you have time, this scene was amazing to say the least. So many great English bands came out of this scene, and were a marvellous progression into ‘Progressive Rock’.
Caravan to me are an extremely professional unit. Former members of Wilde Flowers, of whom consisted quite a few members that started terrific bands from these humble beginnings. Very Middle Eastern in flavour, Pye Hastings on vocals is a maestro. He is classically trained, and has an amazing vocal capacity.
I love the drum in the beginning, with tabla blending in. Hastings voice is so sweet, sung in the key of E minor. The guitar riffs that come after he has sung his verse are powerful, and the ‘moog’ organ effective, colourful. The Beatles in my mind really didn’t match the Middle Eastern feel like this band did. There is all this talk how great The Beatles ‘within without’ was with the sitar and drumming on the Sgt Peppers album, sure it was OK, but hey, did it really have the ‘emotion’ that this band were capable of producing. David Sinclair on organ was terrific, Richard Sinclair on bass, and Richard Couglan on drums were very original. This band is still playing today, although they didn’t have the success that other bands did, speaks volumes. I hope to go and see Caravan in Britain, they do a lot of touring in Europe, it’s one of my dreams, I have to see them live. I absolutely adore their music.
2. WHY AM I SO SHORT - SOFT MACHINE
Another Canterbury scene band, which had a little bit more success than Caravan, but not that much more. Kevin Ayers bass guitarist and vocalist, and Robert Wyatt on drums are a dynamic duet in this band. The band was formed in 1966, with the other founding members Mike Ratledge (organ), and Daevid Allen (guitar) an Australian musician.
Kevin Ayers did a lot of the ‘baritone’ vocals, while Robert Wyatt who is currently mainly singing on this song, sang ‘tenor’. Wyatt has a very soft voice, and I love the way he sings, typically English, a lot of the Soft Machine tracks that feature his voice are special. It is a very short song, as the next track after this one is a doozy. It goes for about 10 minutes, with an extraordinary complex arrangement of music, Wyatt, rattles on as he always does, with humour and finesse.
Magnificent bass on this song. And the organ that goes ta ta ta ta ta at the beginning, before the bass and drums come in, is pure class from Mike Ratledge, very ‘dramatic’, you haven’t heard any real good psychedelics till you pay attention to Soft Machine.
3. TWISTED FLOWER - COLD SUN
A very under rated band. This band is another Austin Texas band from the 60’s. They recorded one album, then they split up due to complications with the industries contractual arrangements. Billy Miller on vocals is fantastic. He wrote all the songs to their only album. He also played the ‘Auto Harp’, which is an electronic ‘harp’. I love the guitars the way they go up and down the scales, I think Ray Manzerak would have been influenced from the keyboard flow, I wouldn’t be surprised if Robby Krieger wrote ‘Light my Fire’ from the way this band Cold Sun did their arrangements. This song flows like liquid, really surreal, great songs to dance with on their one and only album ‘Dark Shadows’.
4. YOU CAN’T EVER COME DOWN - JOE BYRD AND THE FIELD HIPPIES
Joseph ‘Joe’ Byrd (organ) was the main writer and conductor of the band. He always had female vocalists in his bands. He was also part of another band which I have featured in this compilation ‘The United States of America’.
Christie Thompson main vocalist on this album is fantastic, and her back up vocalist, another female Victoria Bond, this sound was recorded in 1968. Joe Byrd was a magician, real 60’s sound, was always orchestrated, with wonderful effects , be patient, and allow Byrd’s effects to come to the surface towards the end of this song, it’s like a trip into the Twilight Zone.
5. WHO’S TO BLAME - AZITIS
Don Lower vocals, bass guitar, and main writer runs the show in their one and only album. This is a USA band, that thought about their music, they wanted to make sure they had a message. One of the very first Christian Psychedelic bands of the 60’s. The bass guitar fantastic from Lower, Dennis Sullivan on organ and piano, terrific on all the tracks on their album. Michael Welch on lead guitar, and Steve Nelson on drums form the final formula in this quartet.
Simple message, great repetitive melody, and lovely flute as well. Azitis were very original, they were ready to become big in the States, till Sullivan got very afraid of success, and where the band was going as far as their popularity, and vanished without a trace, no reason why he left the band, and the band disbanded. It was an organ based band, and as far as the members were concerned, he could not be replaced.
6. HERESY - THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
Joseph Byrd once again, influencing this band which was formed in 1967. Once again Byrd’s desire to have female vocals made the psychedelic sounds ‘sexy’, these chicks were hip, just like Grace Slick from the Jefferson Airplane. Rand Forbes played ‘fretless bass’ in this band, Craig Woodson drums, and Gordon Marron electric violin. Dorothy Moskowitz is the female vocalist, that Byrd has selected. Once again Byrd is very well respected as a Psychedelic keyboard player and composer.
7. EIGHT MILES HIGH - BYRDS
Los Angeles band, everyone has heard about the Byrds. But did many know that the first 2 albums from the Byrds, recorded in in 1966, and early 1967, are Psychedelic masterpieces. Everyone relates the Byrds to Mr Tamborine man, Bob Dylan’s song, but that was much later, when the band decided to go more folk. They started as a psychedelic band with amazing talent, how they went folk after that I will never know.
Roger MGunn lead guitar and vocals was a great writer and leader. David Crosby on rhythm guitar was also good with his vocals. I really like the corny guitar on this song, I believe MGunn is playing with a ‘Rickenbecker’ guitar, or he has this strange effect running thru his guitar. Great feel, and really good song to dance to as well.
8. WAYFARING STRANGER - H.P. LOVECRAFT
The music continues, and it is all about this flow, the colourful organs, the great bass riffs, and the busy drums. What I like about the songs that I have selected so far, is that the vocals are great, there is always a few doing the vocals which leads to fantastic harmonies. H.P. Lovecraft are a Chicago based band. George Edwards vocal harmonies, and Dave Michaels who is classically trained combine really well.
9. NIGHT SOUNDS LOUD - CLEAR LIGHT
A Los Angeles based band formed in 1966. Dough Lobahn, guitar, vocals has a very distinctive voice. Dallas Taylor on drums is really good as well. Guitars, and keyboards blend in well. I like the rhythm, and the colour of the instruments, I have about 6 of Clear Light albums, and every time a listen to each one, I find something else interesting in their arrangements all the time.
10. 2000 LIGHT YEARS FROM HOME - THE ROLLING STONES
I have put this song in, as any serious psychedelic listener would put this song in most definitely. It is from a 1967 album of theirs the only psychedelic sound called the ‘Satanic Majesties Request’. It shows the brilliance of the Stones, when they put their minds to it.
Also what features here is the ‘Mellotron’ organ. (An electro-mechanical polyphonic tape replay keyboard). It was played by Brian Jones, who also played the sitar, and various other instruments. The song was written by Mick Jagger when he served a temporary jail sentence for possession of drugs.
I hope you all appreciate this song, great drum beat from Charlie Watts, fantastic effects, transistor etc, from Brian Jones, catchy melody, dreamy lyrics and voices, bass guitar worth a mention from Billy Wyman. Be patient, allow the Rolling Stones to finish their song, with the effects that they are incorporating.
11. AS THE MOON SPEAKS - CAPTAIN BEYOND
Captain Beyond is a Los Angeles based band. Rod Evans has a distinctive vocal range, probably ahead of his time. Bobby Caldwell is an exceptional drummer. The drum solo at the end of the song, you feel like hearing more of. Well this is so on this album. This band also did something similar to Soft Machine, they would have extended musical arrangements after a short vocal song prior. I like this band, all their songs were original, really sophisticated arrangements, very accomplished musicians.
12. TADPOLE - MANDRAKE MEMORIAL
Mandrake Memorial is a USA based band from the 60’s. I love Randy Monacco’s voice, he wrote all the songs on this particular album. I like the way he bends his notes in his vocals range. Tadpole is only a short song, but it gives you an idea how his voice would sound with all their other songs on the album. Kevin Lally on drums plays this marching type of beat. Michael Kac’s guitar riffs are magic, Craig Anderson who plays the sitar, and many other effects including keyboards is very talented.
Monacco has a beautiful voice, and lyrical content. They only brought out a few albums, I love the Mandrake Memorial, I even like the triangle that is hit at certain parts of the song, great ending, and effects at the end.
13. YOU UPSET THE GRACE OF LIVING - GANDALF
Peter Sando’s voice in this band, gives this band a rich distinctive flavour. I love Frank Hubach’s organ, once again only one album from this band, a USA psychedelic band of the 60’s. David Bower on drums, and John please notice the rolls that all these drummers portray, that is prevalent with most songs on this album. You will notice how these drummers are exceptional, as they follow the vocalists and their stories and messages. Just listen to Sando and how he is singing, and listen to the drums, and you will see an amazing interaction. The singer is singing, and the drummer is also answering, the beat, is talking back to the singer. Good drummers follow the lead vocalists, and have wonderful replies with the percussive rolls, THAT INCIDENTALLY THESE DAYS IS NON EXISTANT. DRUMMERS THESE DAYS KEEP A VERY BASIC BEAT, RIGHT THRU, AND DON’T HAVE ANY COMMUNICATION WITH THE LEAD VOCALS. IT REALLY IS TRAGIC, MUSIC IS GOING DOWN THE GURGLER.
Hey, that’s why I can relate to this music, as these musicians understood synergy, you must understand that Pop music as a genre, can be too lollipop, and the credibility of the quality of musicianship is questionable. That’s why I respect Jazz and blues as genres, as there is no questioning the feel, and the musical responsibility of each musician.
14. CLIPPING THE 8TH - CARAVAN
Yes, you guessed it, this band again Caravan. Pye Hastings voice is adorable. In the first song you heard, it was tenor, look at it now, it has gone baritone. Super talented bloke as far as I am concerned, I love Caravan they are very original. I love the clippers it is like clockwork in this song, listen very closely, very English, very Canterbury, great guitars, good organ, bass, drums, triangles, effects. ONE THING THIS BAND WILL ALWAYS GIVE YOU, IT IS ‘EMOTION’ IN THEIR MUSIC. Every song has an impact, I still don’t understand why they couldn't make it commercially.
15. POSSESSION - IRON BUTTERFLY
When you finally hear Doug Ingle’s voice, you ask yourself how wonderful how he accentuates his vocals. Iron Butterfly are a San Diego USA band formed in 1966. Doug Ingle also plays organ in the band.
HOW HAUNTING, it is like something out of the Munsters, or the Addams Family. I love his organ work, it gives Iron Butterfly their trademark. A mention of Danny Weis on guitar, and Jack Punney on drums, fantastic band.
‘ITS POSSE-EEE--SS – ION’ I love the way they drag their notes when they sing.Doug Ingle is one of my favourite Psychedelic singers, I love the eerie way he expresses himself.
16. MIND MACHINE - HUNGER
Well I played you my 3 favourite vocalists, NOW THE GROOVE CONTINUES. And this is the psychedelic groove. Hunger is a band from Portland Oregon that also released ONE ALBUM. And if you heard the album, you will ask me what is it with these bands? Imagine if we heard more. This is a five piece band, all very accomplished musicians, not to be seen again in any way shape or form. This band was particularly intimidated by the mainstream popularity. They became popular, as enthusiasts noticed, they were another short lived band, that come up with one album, a single, or like a lot of cases no tape or record of any type, but memories, and perhaps a very rough bootleg missing in the archives. I like Hunger, as the album that I have, their talent shines right thru.
17. A HOUSE IS NOT A HOTEL - LOVE
This band is a terrific outfit. Arthur Lee is the main vocalist, driving force, writer and inspiration. His collaboration Johnny Echols ( lead guitar) is unique. The 2 very first albums they brought out in 1966 and 1967, ‘De Capo’, and ‘Forever Changes’, are psychedelic collectors classics. On the strength of these albums, the reputation of Love was respected in the USA. I love Arthur Lee’s voice and his lyrics, simply brilliant. Great lead break as well in this song.
18. WINDS HAVE CHANGED - MUSIC EMPORIUM
Music Emporium is another chicky babe vocal band. From the USA formed in 1967. All these chicks sang, quite amazing. It was a five piece band, four were women, the guitarist Dave Dadwin was the only guy in the band. Dora Wahl played the drums, and incidentally played very well, listen to her rolls buddy, Jan Erro was the main singer, Maureen Tucker played the organ, and Carolyn Lee played the bass guitar. All four sang, while Dave quietly did his thing on the lead guitar. Lovely harmonies, ‘Winds have changed’ is a wonderful song, and the album that it was taken from, there are some other magnificent tracks, that when played over and over make you appreciate the majesty of this mainly all chick psychedelic band.
19. POOR RICHARD - SPIRIT
Spirit were formed in Los Angeles in 1967. It was a five piece band. Randy California was the main vocalist and guitarist. Ed Cassidy drums, John Lode on keyboards, Mark Andes on bass, Jay Ferguson vocals, percussion. They were a psychedelic band that performed a lot of their gigs in the State of California. They also come up with 3 to 4 albums in their time. Randy California has written most of the material for the band. They were renowned for using bass riffs as the main melody in their songs. Nice harmonies on this song, Jay Ferguson and Randy California worked prolifically on tightening that act in all their songs.
20. BORN CROSS EYED - GRATEFUL DEAD
San Francisco based band. The Grateful Dead were also a band, that were vocals orientated like Spirit. Jerry Garcia guitar, main vocals, Bob Weir, guitar, vocals, Ron Mckernan keyboards, vocals, Phil Lesh bass, vocals, Bill Kreutzman drums. Everyone in this band sang except the drummer. They are also popular for their intricate artistic album cover designs, very surreal each one of them.
21. SOON SOON SOON - KEVIN AYERS
Kevin Ayers has already been mentioned as the founder of the Soft Machine. When we talk about Psychedelic, we have to include Kevin Ayers, as he was one of the consistent players of this genre right thru out his distinguished career. He has this baritone voice, and countless and numerous songs that relate to this genre all original. I like this track, as it shows the versatility of this extraordinary artist.
22. UNCONSCIOUS POWER - IRON BUTTERFLY
Once again another track of one of my favourite bands Iron Butterfly. I love their organ work, and the feel they have in their songs. I like the way they accentuate certain passages in their vocal harmony. Great guitar work, fantastic bass, and beautiful organ and drums. Iron Butterfly always put you in a good mood, all of their songs are very interesting, highly original, and consistently good.
23. LONG YEARS IN SPACE - NEIGHBORHOOD CHILDREN
This band originated from San Francisco. They were around from 1963 – 1970, and came up with quite a few albums during that time. Dyan Hoffman main vocals, and keyboards, sang and wrote most of the tracks in their music. Females can be quite effective in Psychedelic music, and Dyan Hoffman is exceptional. She has a terrific range with her voice, and was greatly admired and respected amongst her piers during the 60’s.
24. FUGUE IN D MINOR - EGG
Egg is another Canterbury scene British band. I have included a few Cantebury scene bands, as these were the most innovative type during the Psychedelic genre. This song is a cover done psychedelically from Sebastian Bach. I love the drums on this number, and the bass guitar. Of course the organ work is exceptional, Dave Stewart on the organ is fantastic. Mont Campbell on bass, Clive Brooks on drums. These musicians have been classically trained, and that shows in all their albums, highly intricate and complex progressions with all their songs.
25. OUTER TEMPLE - GONG
Gong is another Cantebury scene band that were formed in 1967. It is a five piece band, with Australian musician Daevid Allen in this band as well. Just a short song, quite humorous, ‘Would you Like some tea’, and you can hear the tea being poured in the cup. All of Gong’s music was unique, with lots of instruments, plenty of effects, brass, string, and keyboards. Their albums are worth listening to, very clever arrangements.
26. BEATLE BONES ‘N’ SMOKIN STONES - CAPTAIN BEEFHEART
Don Van Vliet is Captain Beefheart’s real name, from the USA. This artist is exceptional. Even John Lennon admired this bloke. This guy was very good mates with Frank Zappa, they were mates from teenagers. Captain Beefheart started his Magic Band in 1965 – 1982. This song is a send up of the Beatles and the Stones. He has a very distinctive voice, ‘Strawberry Fields Forever”, he has a go at, as he doesn’t think much of the Beatle lyrics and songs. He has a go at the Stones as well, a lot of his music is Blues, Jazz, Fusion, and Psychedelics all in one. I have a few of his albums, and all his stuff is controversial, but very clever, he is a very talented man.
27. THE SURREALIST WALTZ - PEARLS BEFORE SWINE
I really like this band which formed in the USA in 1965. The group name was created from a ‘Bible Passage’. This song that was taken from their 1968 album release ‘Balaklava’, is one of the most sort out Psychedelic albums. Tom Rapp is the main leader of the group. A lot of the music they wrote was very ‘emotional’, they incorporated musical instruments that would give that flavour. All very accomplished musicians, an organ based band, with very original concepts. I like the marching drums on this song which gives it this Waltz type of feel. Most of the songs on this particular album are very surreal and majestic. Tom Rapp is a tremendous singer with a sweet voice.
PSYCHEDELIC SOUNDS OF THE 60'S1. Hullo Der - Soft Machine
2. And so to bed - Atomic Rooster 3. Migration - Camel 4. Crosstown Traffic - Jimi Hendrix 5. Pupil Of The Eye - Nektar 6. It's Only A Reflection - Lollipop Shoppe 7. Louie, go home - Paul Revere & Raiders 8. If Not This Time - Fifty Foot Hose 9. Have You Ever Bean Grean - Soft Machine 10. 21st Century Schizoid Man - King Crimson 11. Hurry On Sundown - Hawkwid 12. Black Smoke Yen - Van Der Graaf Generator 13. You're Just The One - Nirvana 14. Death of a Dream Machine - The Deviants 15. Sin - Lollipop Shoppe 16. So Far - Faust 17. Righteous Rumba - Matching Mole 18. A Question Of Temperature - Balloon Farm 19. Draft Resister - Steppenwolf 20. Some More - Funkadelic 21. Radar Eyes - Godz 22. Turn On, Tune In, Drop Out - The Fugs 23. Yesterday's Hero - The Satyrs 24. Tomorrow Night - Atomic Rooster 25. Get Thy Bearings - Donovan 26. Curiosity - Camel |
COMMENTARY ON PSYCHEDELIC SOUNDS OF THE 60’S VOLUME V WRITTEN BY (ANDREW IOANNIDIS
1. HULLO DER - SOFT MACHINE
I thought I would put a couple more of Soft Machine’s songs in this collection. Very English, Canterbury scene, soft as far as vocals are concerned. The brilliant vocal range of Robert Wyatt. This band has psychedelic roots, that pioneered ‘progressive rock’, before they disbanded. This song is interesting the way they send up the FBI and the CIA.
2. AND SO TO BED - ATOMIC ROOSTER
Atomic Rooster we’re an English psychedelic band from the late 1960’s to early 1970’s. Vincent Crane who was the keyboardist was the backbone of the band. They took their name from the Chinese calender the year of the rooster. Nick Graham was on bass and vocals. Carl Palmer played the drums. John Du Cann was recruited from the band Andromeda, and the band kicked it off with two main hits. You can hear Crane’s Hammond organ in this song, and tight bass guitar, great rolls with Carl Palmer’s drumming.
3. MIGRATION - CAMEL
Camel when started we’re an English psychedelic / progressive rock band. They are still present today. Andrew Latimer (guitar), Andy Ward (drums), Peter Bardens (keyboards), and Doug Ferguson (bass) were the main members of the band. The legacy this band has left behind is astonishing, they have been the backing band for many big bands such as Pink Floyd, and Deep Purple. They have done a lot of work in countries such as Argentina, Israel, Japan, Sweden, Iran, Egypt, and Lebanon. They still have a huge following today, and play a high standard of musical quality. Migration shows how this band goes up and down the scales, discovering new chord structures, taken from their ‘Snow Goose’ album.
4. CROSSTOWN TRAFFIC - JIMI HENDRIX
We all know Hendrix. This song is taken from his most psychedelic album ‘Electric Ladyland’. It was a really good sound for a three piece band, this song might sound familiar, but it is still a beauty today.
5. PUPIL OF THE EYE - NEKTAR
This band formed in Hamburg Germany in 1969. The band included Englishmen Roy Albrighton (guitar & vocals), Allan Taff Freeman (Keyboards), Derek Moore on bass, and Ron Howden on drums. Their first three albums were obscure psychedelic rock albums. Roy Albrighton has really nice vocals, Freeman on the keyboards gives this song atmosphere. Good mix of guitar and keyboard verses, very good separation. Interesting song, Frank Zappa took note of this band, and wanted to import some of its members to his band ‘Mothers of Invention’.
6. ITS ONLY A REFLECTION - THE LOLLIPOP SHOPPE
The Lollipop Shoppe we’re a 1960’s psychedelic / garage rock band from Portland, Oregon USA. Fred Cole was the catalyst of the band. They were called ‘The Weeds’ before when the manager told them to change their name as it sounded too close to ‘The Seeds’, hence The Lollipop Shoppe was named. They disbanded in 1969, but this album their only album ‘Just Colour’ has become a collector’s item for true psychedelic collectors.
7. LOUIE, GO HOME - PAUL REVERE & THE RAIDERS
Paul Revere & the Raiders is an American rock band, that is still active today. This band had a bit of commercial success in the late 60’s, and early 70’s. they brought out one psychedelic album ‘Midnight Ride with Paul Revere’ and this song is taken out of this album.
8. IF NOT THIS TIME - FIFTY FOOT HOSE
Fifty Foot Hose is a psychedelic rock band from San Francisco in the late 60’s, that are still active today. Louis Cork Marcheschi (bass), David Blossom (guitar), Nancy Blossom (vocalist), Kim Kimsey (drums), and Larry Evans (guitar), are the main members of the band. When they released ‘Cauldron’ in 1967, it became a psychedelic collector’s item. This song is taken from that album, and there so many interesting songs on this album, it’s hard to pick the best.
9. HAVE YOU EVER BEEN GREEN - SOFT MACHINE
Another Soft Machine short song. The harmonies of Robert Wyatt and Kevin Ayers is exceptional and very original.
10. 21st CENTURY SCHIZOID MAN - KING CRIMSON
King Crimson band members Robert Fripp (guitarist), Michael Giles (drums), Peter Giles (bass), Ian McDonald (keyboards), Peter Sinfield (lyricist, roadie, and art strategist) formed in the USA 1967. This song is taken out of their first debut album, ‘The Court of the Crimson King’. Regarded by many, as an ingenious artistic contribution to the music world. The band started with sophisticated psychedelic genre, and ended up being one of the most successful experimental rock acts of this century. Very complex chord structures, and supreme musicianship.
11. HURRY ON SUNDOWN - HAWKWIND
Hawkwind are an English rock band still active today. The band formed in 1969. Dave Brock (vocals & guitar), Terry Ottis (drums), Tim Blake (keyboards & vocals), and Mr Dibs (bass guitar & vocals) were the band when formed. This song was recorded during an Abbey Road session, then a recording label owned by the Beatles. They started off as a psychedelic band, that went onto experimental music, and were pioneers of early ‘space rock’, and lyrics that favoured ‘Urban’ and ‘Science Fiction’ themes.
12. BLACK SMOKE YEN - VAN DER GRAAF GENERATOR
Van Der Graaf Generator we’re an English progressive rock band formed in Manchester in 1967. Peter Hammill (guitar & vocals), Nick Pearne (organ), Chris Judge Smith (drums) were the founders. This song is taken out of the bands psychedelic album, ‘The Aerosol Grey Machine’ released in 1969.
13. YOU’RE JUST THE ONE - NIRVANA (UK Band)
Nirvana we’re an English psychedelic band formed in the 60’s. this was a London based band which consisted of a great musical collaboration of Irish musician Patrick Campbell Lyons and Greek composer Alex Spyropoulos. The album ‘The Story of Simon Simopath’, was arguably one of the first narrative concept albums in 1967, like its early competitors, The Kink’s ‘Arthur’ album, and concept albums from The Small Faces, and Pretty Things. The other members of the band included Ray Singer (guitar), Brian Henderson (bass), and Michael Cole (French horn, viola).
14. DEATH OF A DREAM MACHINE - THE DEVIANTS
Were an English psychedelic rock band active between 1967-1969. Their music is described as ‘teeth grinding’ psychedelic rock, and a classic transition between British psych and punk / heavy rock. Mick Farren (singer / writer), Pete Munro (bass), Clive Muldoon (guitar), and Russell Hunter on drums formed the band in 1967. Their debut album ‘Ptoof’ in 1967 is regarded as a psychedelic classic amongst collectors of this genre.
15. SIN - THE LOLLIPOP SHOPPE
Another song from The Lollipop Shoppe, great vocals from Fred Cole. Fantastic guitar work, very distinctive bass. Great effect going thru the bass guitar. The original intentions of this band was to corner the ‘Bubble Gum’ genre of the music market at the time. However, all the songs they wrote for this album turned out to be psychedelic, therefore they didn’t attract the teenagers they were after at the time.
16. SO FAR - FAUST
Faust is a German ‘Krautrock’ band formed in the late 60’s. Faust in German means fist. Members Werner Zappi Diermaier, Hans Joachim Irmier, and Jean Herre Peron, are the main members. The band is still active today. This soundtrack is taken from their ‘Faust Tapes’ album. This album has an extensive cut and paste tracks, which are a collection of their private recordings. A very original European band, starting in psychedelic circles, before becoming prolific in ‘Krautrock’ and ‘Experimental Rock’ genre.
17. RIGHTEOUS RUMBA - MATCHING MOLE
Matching Mole we’re a UK Progressive Rock band from the Canterbury scene. Robert Wyatt formed the band after his departure from the Soft Machine. David Sinclair from Caravan, played organ, Phil Miller (guitar), and Bill MacCormick (bass guitar). Matching Mole disbanded in 1972, after Robert Wyatt had a tragic fall from a fourth storey window, and became paralysed from the waist down, and unable to continue drumming.
18. A QUESTION OF TEMPERATURE - THE BALLOON FARM
The Balloon Farm we’re a USA band from New Jersey formed in 1966. Band members Mike Appel, Don Henny, Ed Schnug, and Jay Saks formed the band. They had one hit, which is this one released in 1967. The band disbanded in 1974, unable to break into the charts all those years. This song reminds me of a very early disco rhythm. All their songs were psychedelic inclined, and it is no surprise that this song became something of a ‘garage – psych’ classic.
19. DRAFT RESISTER - STEPPENWOLF
Steppenwolf are a Canadian / American rock group that was prominent in the late 1960’s. The band consisted of John Kay (vocalist), Michael Monarch (guitar), Ruston Moreve (bass), Goldy McJohn (keyboards), and Jerry Edmonton (drums). The band has become a success over the years, selling more than 25 million records worldwide. This song is taken from their psychedelic album ‘Monster’. Many themes on this album questioned, US policy of the Nixon era, and attitudes of drugs and its associated problems.
20. SOME MORE - FUNKADELIC
Funkadelic were an American band formed in 1968 and active till 1981.
The band was originally formed by George Clinton. Other members Billy Bass Nelson (bass), Eddie Hazel (guitar), William Bootsy Collins (drums). This song was one of the first ‘psychedelic soul’, songs of its kind. They were contributors of psychedelic funk rock movement.
21. RADAR EYES - GODZ
Godz we’re a New York City based psychedelic band from 1966-1973. The Godz musicians were Jim McCarthy (guitar), Larry Kessler (bass), Jay Dillon (autoharpist), and Paul Thornton (drums). This band were a strange unit. The Godz would play as if their musical instruments were played for the first time, there would be lots of droning in their music, and distinctive percussion with each song. Their singing was intentionally off key, almost parodic, and their songs sounded like improvised snippets. I like them for their originality.
22. TURN ON, TUNE IN, DROP OUT - THE FUGS
The Fugs we’re a band formed in New York in 1965. Ed Sanders (vocals), and Tuli Kupferberg (vocals) were prolific poets in that period. Ken Weaver (drums), John Anderson (bass), Vinny Leary (guitar), and Lee Crabtree (keyboards) would join the vocalists when they were needed in the studio. This band like Mothers of Invention were a ‘satirical’, and ‘self satirzing’ rock band with a political slant. The band has written many humorous lyrics about sex, drugs, and politics over the years that have caused a ‘hostile’ reaction by various organizations including the FBI.
23. YESTERDAY’S HERO - THE SATYRS
The Satyr’s we’re a New Jersey psychedelic band from the USA back in the 1960’s. the band consisted of bassist and founder/songwriter Craig Morrill. Very little is known about the band, as bery little has been documented. One of the many USA ‘garage/psych’ bands that were hidden in the talent wardrobe.
24. TOMORROW NIGHT - ATOMIC ROOSTER
Another great song from Atomic Rooster. Nick Graham wrote the song. Great drumming from Carl Palmer. This was an exceptional English Psychedelic rock band, great keyboards from Vincent Crane in this song.
25. GET THEY BEARINGS - DONOVAN
Donovan was renowned for ‘flower power’, and psychedelic music, as he was right in the centre commercially in that era. Donovan was well respected by fellow musical peers, especially by John Lennon from the Beatles. Get thy Bearings is a song taken out of Donovan’s psychedelic album ‘The Hurdy Gurdy Man’. Beautiful saxophone in this song.
26. CURIOSITY - CAMEL
Another song from this band Camel. The professionalism this band possess is unsurpassed by many bands. Very tight complex progressions, and this song Curiosity demonstrates the flexibility this band had, great vocal effects, fantastic accomplished lead guitar. Very tight bass guitar, and exceptional rhythmic drumming. The quality of psychedelic/progressive rock arrangement is respected by many fellow bands in that period.
1. HULLO DER - SOFT MACHINE
I thought I would put a couple more of Soft Machine’s songs in this collection. Very English, Canterbury scene, soft as far as vocals are concerned. The brilliant vocal range of Robert Wyatt. This band has psychedelic roots, that pioneered ‘progressive rock’, before they disbanded. This song is interesting the way they send up the FBI and the CIA.
2. AND SO TO BED - ATOMIC ROOSTER
Atomic Rooster we’re an English psychedelic band from the late 1960’s to early 1970’s. Vincent Crane who was the keyboardist was the backbone of the band. They took their name from the Chinese calender the year of the rooster. Nick Graham was on bass and vocals. Carl Palmer played the drums. John Du Cann was recruited from the band Andromeda, and the band kicked it off with two main hits. You can hear Crane’s Hammond organ in this song, and tight bass guitar, great rolls with Carl Palmer’s drumming.
3. MIGRATION - CAMEL
Camel when started we’re an English psychedelic / progressive rock band. They are still present today. Andrew Latimer (guitar), Andy Ward (drums), Peter Bardens (keyboards), and Doug Ferguson (bass) were the main members of the band. The legacy this band has left behind is astonishing, they have been the backing band for many big bands such as Pink Floyd, and Deep Purple. They have done a lot of work in countries such as Argentina, Israel, Japan, Sweden, Iran, Egypt, and Lebanon. They still have a huge following today, and play a high standard of musical quality. Migration shows how this band goes up and down the scales, discovering new chord structures, taken from their ‘Snow Goose’ album.
4. CROSSTOWN TRAFFIC - JIMI HENDRIX
We all know Hendrix. This song is taken from his most psychedelic album ‘Electric Ladyland’. It was a really good sound for a three piece band, this song might sound familiar, but it is still a beauty today.
5. PUPIL OF THE EYE - NEKTAR
This band formed in Hamburg Germany in 1969. The band included Englishmen Roy Albrighton (guitar & vocals), Allan Taff Freeman (Keyboards), Derek Moore on bass, and Ron Howden on drums. Their first three albums were obscure psychedelic rock albums. Roy Albrighton has really nice vocals, Freeman on the keyboards gives this song atmosphere. Good mix of guitar and keyboard verses, very good separation. Interesting song, Frank Zappa took note of this band, and wanted to import some of its members to his band ‘Mothers of Invention’.
6. ITS ONLY A REFLECTION - THE LOLLIPOP SHOPPE
The Lollipop Shoppe we’re a 1960’s psychedelic / garage rock band from Portland, Oregon USA. Fred Cole was the catalyst of the band. They were called ‘The Weeds’ before when the manager told them to change their name as it sounded too close to ‘The Seeds’, hence The Lollipop Shoppe was named. They disbanded in 1969, but this album their only album ‘Just Colour’ has become a collector’s item for true psychedelic collectors.
7. LOUIE, GO HOME - PAUL REVERE & THE RAIDERS
Paul Revere & the Raiders is an American rock band, that is still active today. This band had a bit of commercial success in the late 60’s, and early 70’s. they brought out one psychedelic album ‘Midnight Ride with Paul Revere’ and this song is taken out of this album.
8. IF NOT THIS TIME - FIFTY FOOT HOSE
Fifty Foot Hose is a psychedelic rock band from San Francisco in the late 60’s, that are still active today. Louis Cork Marcheschi (bass), David Blossom (guitar), Nancy Blossom (vocalist), Kim Kimsey (drums), and Larry Evans (guitar), are the main members of the band. When they released ‘Cauldron’ in 1967, it became a psychedelic collector’s item. This song is taken from that album, and there so many interesting songs on this album, it’s hard to pick the best.
9. HAVE YOU EVER BEEN GREEN - SOFT MACHINE
Another Soft Machine short song. The harmonies of Robert Wyatt and Kevin Ayers is exceptional and very original.
10. 21st CENTURY SCHIZOID MAN - KING CRIMSON
King Crimson band members Robert Fripp (guitarist), Michael Giles (drums), Peter Giles (bass), Ian McDonald (keyboards), Peter Sinfield (lyricist, roadie, and art strategist) formed in the USA 1967. This song is taken out of their first debut album, ‘The Court of the Crimson King’. Regarded by many, as an ingenious artistic contribution to the music world. The band started with sophisticated psychedelic genre, and ended up being one of the most successful experimental rock acts of this century. Very complex chord structures, and supreme musicianship.
11. HURRY ON SUNDOWN - HAWKWIND
Hawkwind are an English rock band still active today. The band formed in 1969. Dave Brock (vocals & guitar), Terry Ottis (drums), Tim Blake (keyboards & vocals), and Mr Dibs (bass guitar & vocals) were the band when formed. This song was recorded during an Abbey Road session, then a recording label owned by the Beatles. They started off as a psychedelic band, that went onto experimental music, and were pioneers of early ‘space rock’, and lyrics that favoured ‘Urban’ and ‘Science Fiction’ themes.
12. BLACK SMOKE YEN - VAN DER GRAAF GENERATOR
Van Der Graaf Generator we’re an English progressive rock band formed in Manchester in 1967. Peter Hammill (guitar & vocals), Nick Pearne (organ), Chris Judge Smith (drums) were the founders. This song is taken out of the bands psychedelic album, ‘The Aerosol Grey Machine’ released in 1969.
13. YOU’RE JUST THE ONE - NIRVANA (UK Band)
Nirvana we’re an English psychedelic band formed in the 60’s. this was a London based band which consisted of a great musical collaboration of Irish musician Patrick Campbell Lyons and Greek composer Alex Spyropoulos. The album ‘The Story of Simon Simopath’, was arguably one of the first narrative concept albums in 1967, like its early competitors, The Kink’s ‘Arthur’ album, and concept albums from The Small Faces, and Pretty Things. The other members of the band included Ray Singer (guitar), Brian Henderson (bass), and Michael Cole (French horn, viola).
14. DEATH OF A DREAM MACHINE - THE DEVIANTS
Were an English psychedelic rock band active between 1967-1969. Their music is described as ‘teeth grinding’ psychedelic rock, and a classic transition between British psych and punk / heavy rock. Mick Farren (singer / writer), Pete Munro (bass), Clive Muldoon (guitar), and Russell Hunter on drums formed the band in 1967. Their debut album ‘Ptoof’ in 1967 is regarded as a psychedelic classic amongst collectors of this genre.
15. SIN - THE LOLLIPOP SHOPPE
Another song from The Lollipop Shoppe, great vocals from Fred Cole. Fantastic guitar work, very distinctive bass. Great effect going thru the bass guitar. The original intentions of this band was to corner the ‘Bubble Gum’ genre of the music market at the time. However, all the songs they wrote for this album turned out to be psychedelic, therefore they didn’t attract the teenagers they were after at the time.
16. SO FAR - FAUST
Faust is a German ‘Krautrock’ band formed in the late 60’s. Faust in German means fist. Members Werner Zappi Diermaier, Hans Joachim Irmier, and Jean Herre Peron, are the main members. The band is still active today. This soundtrack is taken from their ‘Faust Tapes’ album. This album has an extensive cut and paste tracks, which are a collection of their private recordings. A very original European band, starting in psychedelic circles, before becoming prolific in ‘Krautrock’ and ‘Experimental Rock’ genre.
17. RIGHTEOUS RUMBA - MATCHING MOLE
Matching Mole we’re a UK Progressive Rock band from the Canterbury scene. Robert Wyatt formed the band after his departure from the Soft Machine. David Sinclair from Caravan, played organ, Phil Miller (guitar), and Bill MacCormick (bass guitar). Matching Mole disbanded in 1972, after Robert Wyatt had a tragic fall from a fourth storey window, and became paralysed from the waist down, and unable to continue drumming.
18. A QUESTION OF TEMPERATURE - THE BALLOON FARM
The Balloon Farm we’re a USA band from New Jersey formed in 1966. Band members Mike Appel, Don Henny, Ed Schnug, and Jay Saks formed the band. They had one hit, which is this one released in 1967. The band disbanded in 1974, unable to break into the charts all those years. This song reminds me of a very early disco rhythm. All their songs were psychedelic inclined, and it is no surprise that this song became something of a ‘garage – psych’ classic.
19. DRAFT RESISTER - STEPPENWOLF
Steppenwolf are a Canadian / American rock group that was prominent in the late 1960’s. The band consisted of John Kay (vocalist), Michael Monarch (guitar), Ruston Moreve (bass), Goldy McJohn (keyboards), and Jerry Edmonton (drums). The band has become a success over the years, selling more than 25 million records worldwide. This song is taken from their psychedelic album ‘Monster’. Many themes on this album questioned, US policy of the Nixon era, and attitudes of drugs and its associated problems.
20. SOME MORE - FUNKADELIC
Funkadelic were an American band formed in 1968 and active till 1981.
The band was originally formed by George Clinton. Other members Billy Bass Nelson (bass), Eddie Hazel (guitar), William Bootsy Collins (drums). This song was one of the first ‘psychedelic soul’, songs of its kind. They were contributors of psychedelic funk rock movement.
21. RADAR EYES - GODZ
Godz we’re a New York City based psychedelic band from 1966-1973. The Godz musicians were Jim McCarthy (guitar), Larry Kessler (bass), Jay Dillon (autoharpist), and Paul Thornton (drums). This band were a strange unit. The Godz would play as if their musical instruments were played for the first time, there would be lots of droning in their music, and distinctive percussion with each song. Their singing was intentionally off key, almost parodic, and their songs sounded like improvised snippets. I like them for their originality.
22. TURN ON, TUNE IN, DROP OUT - THE FUGS
The Fugs we’re a band formed in New York in 1965. Ed Sanders (vocals), and Tuli Kupferberg (vocals) were prolific poets in that period. Ken Weaver (drums), John Anderson (bass), Vinny Leary (guitar), and Lee Crabtree (keyboards) would join the vocalists when they were needed in the studio. This band like Mothers of Invention were a ‘satirical’, and ‘self satirzing’ rock band with a political slant. The band has written many humorous lyrics about sex, drugs, and politics over the years that have caused a ‘hostile’ reaction by various organizations including the FBI.
23. YESTERDAY’S HERO - THE SATYRS
The Satyr’s we’re a New Jersey psychedelic band from the USA back in the 1960’s. the band consisted of bassist and founder/songwriter Craig Morrill. Very little is known about the band, as bery little has been documented. One of the many USA ‘garage/psych’ bands that were hidden in the talent wardrobe.
24. TOMORROW NIGHT - ATOMIC ROOSTER
Another great song from Atomic Rooster. Nick Graham wrote the song. Great drumming from Carl Palmer. This was an exceptional English Psychedelic rock band, great keyboards from Vincent Crane in this song.
25. GET THEY BEARINGS - DONOVAN
Donovan was renowned for ‘flower power’, and psychedelic music, as he was right in the centre commercially in that era. Donovan was well respected by fellow musical peers, especially by John Lennon from the Beatles. Get thy Bearings is a song taken out of Donovan’s psychedelic album ‘The Hurdy Gurdy Man’. Beautiful saxophone in this song.
26. CURIOSITY - CAMEL
Another song from this band Camel. The professionalism this band possess is unsurpassed by many bands. Very tight complex progressions, and this song Curiosity demonstrates the flexibility this band had, great vocal effects, fantastic accomplished lead guitar. Very tight bass guitar, and exceptional rhythmic drumming. The quality of psychedelic/progressive rock arrangement is respected by many fellow bands in that period.