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Episode 023: Twenty-Three Leaves Fell for Fall: Selections from Central and South America Sep 01, 2022

Episode 023: Twenty-Three Leaves Fell for Fall: Selections from Central and South America
Almendra - A Estos Hombres Tristes (Argentina 1969) Hailing from the Buenos Aires, Almendra were one of the most important bands of the time, releasing two albums that would cement their place as the band that revolutionized Argentinian rock. This epic piece comes from their fantastic debut album from 1969. The group followed up with a double album in 1970 before splitting up and leaving the members to pursue various musical ventures through the 70’s.
Arco Iris - Tiempo (Argentina 1969) Fusing together more musical styles than most of their contemporaries, Buenos Aires based Arco Iris started out as a folk-rock outfit before branching out into more adventurous territory, as heard on this sprawling number. The band continued to evolve, eventually moving to the States and pursuing a more new age tinged sound in the late 70’s.
Los Kiriaps - El Viaje (El Salvador 1969) Though not as widely documented, El Salvador had a rock scene just as vibrant as its neighboring countries. Los Kiriaps, from the Luz de San Salvador neighborhood, were one of the premier bands of the time that left behind a flawless three single discography. This fuzz-laden scorcher shows a heavy psychedelic influence with its delayed vocal freak out sections and backwards drums.
Los Walkers - Dónde Está Miss Lee Los Sabados (Argentina 1968) “The Beatles of Argentina” in more ways than one, in that they wear the Fab Four influence proudly on their sleeves and were one of the most popular bands in the country at the time. This pop-psych masterpiece is taken from their Sgt. Pepper-esque “Walking Up con Los Walkers” album that is sung primarily in English. The band continued to release single until their breakup in 1970.
The Shakers - Only In Your Eyes (Uruguay 1966) The Beatles influence is evident with this band as well, who were also Uruguay’s most popular export at the time - so much so that the album this song is taken from actually saw an American release! Los Shakers were founded by the Fattoruso brothers, inspired to take to the stage after watching A Hard Day’s Night. After four albums the band disbanded once their new psychedelic sound fell on deaf ears at their label.
Los Gatos - Eres Un Hada Al Fin (Argentina 1968) Formed from the ashes of Los Gatos Salvajes, this band from the Rosario area scored a huge hit in 1967, kicking off a five album run that features some of the finest pop and psychedelia from South America. This organ led groover is taken from their third album Seremos Amigos. After releasing their last and most progressive album in 1970, the band called it a day.
Feo - Ella es Adorable (El Salvador 1973) A mystery band from El Salvador that released only two singles in 1973.
We All Together - Soy Timido (Peru 1973) Peru had one of the most active rock scenes and We All Together were more than happy to occupy the Beatles-esque pop lane, more specifically the sticky pop that McCartney produced during his early solo years. After two solid albums and a handful of singles, the band broke up after only two short years.

Episode 022 - The Keys to Room Twenty-Two Aug 22, 2022

Episode 022: The Keys to Room Twenty-Two: Selections from the Post-Psychedelic Era Part Two

The Bee Gees - Sweet Song of Summer (UK 1972) A true oddity in the brothers Gibb's sprawling discography, sounding like a lost track from their psych era four years previous. They create quite an atmosphere that fuses trippy synth experiments with battle percussion and chants that sound like a crew of vikings backing them. Part of their "lost" period where they are coming out of their early Beatle-esque pop sound, but before they'd stumble on a super successful style more informed by American soul and R&B.
Vangelis Papathanis - Sunny Earth (Greece 1973) Originally part of Greek psychedelic warlords Aphrodite's Child, this moody sound piece comes from Vangelis' second solo album. After a prolific run of albums, Vangelis would eventually find much success in the field of soundtrack world.
Yoko Ono - Greenfield Morning I Pushed an Empty Baby Carriage All Over the City (US 1970) Yoko's work is often polarizing, sometimes dismissed as avant-garde rambling - but her early work does have its gems. On this standout track from her first album, her trademark shriek is backed by a thumping groove that provides just enough grounding for her to deliver her audible freak out.
Spirit - The Other Song (1975) Recorded several years after their "heyday", this song sounds like it could be a relic from their Dr. Sardonicus era. Produced by the enigmatic Randy California, this phased wonder comes from the second album they recorded after their first initial reunion, Son of Spirit.
White Noise - Love Without Sound (1969) Pioneers of early electronic exploration, this band began as a group project between David Vorhaus and BBC Radio Workshop members Delia Derbyshire and Brian Hodgson. Their first album contains some of the most forward thinking and bizarre electronic music of the time, and foreshadows how music would be made in the future with it's use of tape loops and wacky machines.
Kevin Ayers - The Confessions of Dr. Dream (UK 1974) Originally part of prog-psych legends The Soft Machine, Kev Ayers solo discography is filled with many highlights and is most definitely worth exploring. This psychedelic masterpiece features the haunting voice of Nico, which adds to the spooky and otherworldly mood of the track.

Episode 021: Twenty-One Seconds To Dawn Jun 09, 2021

Episode 021: Twenty One Seconds To Dawn - Late 60's Blue Eyed Soul
Plastic Penny - Everything I Am (UK 1967) This UK band specialized in the classic pop-psych sound that was sweeping the nation at the time, yet with with a soulful edge that set them apart from their peers. This can be heard on this sweet and earnest love song - and debut single - which they released at the end of 1967. After two albums in as many years, the Pennies called it a day.
Flaming Ember - Mind, Body and Soul (US 1969) A quintessential blue-eyed soul unit from the US that sought a particularly impassioned vocal strain of the genre as heard on this sweet sticky love song. After a handful of singles and two albums for the Hot Wax label, the band would call it quits leaving behind a discography worth digging into.
Cupid's Inspiration - My World (UK 1968) This UK band recorded one album and a handful of singles in their brief three year career, but they are arguably one of the finest examples of the blue eyed soul genre. Their lone album has many highlights including this soaring single that features the huge voice of lead singer Terry Rice-Milton.
Episode Six - Mr. Universe (UK 1968) This UK psych band is famous for being the first vehicle for future Deep Purple members Ian Gillan and Roger Glover. They released nine singles during their career, all of which failed to chart but nonetheless are worth a listen. Their finest example may be this sultry b-side featuring the soulful lead vocals of Gillan.
Aesop's Fables - And When It's Over (US 1969) A moody and groovy number by this band of psychedelic warriors out of New York. Lead singer Sonny Botari's croon is the centerpiece, but the band's rhythm section is undeniably stealing the show here. After two albums and a handful of singles, Sonny would break up the band and pursue a solo career.
Manfred Mann - Fox On the Run (UK 1968) Part of the initial British Invasion that swept the world in the mid 60's, this classic band - lead by an organist of their namesake - would adopt to the times with much success during their long and prolific career. 1968 finds them contributing to the burgeoning pop-psych wave while retaining the soulful sound of their early days as heard on this stellar single.
The Love Affair - Everlasting Love (UK 1967) This ubiquitous single might be the ultimate example of blue eyed soul - with it's soaring vocal, polished production and bombastic horn section, it can be used as paradigm for the sound. After two albums and a handful of singles, the band would call it a day in the early 70's.
The Loading Zone - Maybe We've Been Loving Too Long (US 1968) A funky cover of UK pop-psych band The Flying Machine's minor hit single by a groovy bunch of freaks from Oakland, CA. Formerly psychedelic band The Marbles, they would recruit soul singer Linda Tillery and morph their sound as heard on their solid two albums.
Rare Earth -Red Apple (US 1968) One of the more famous American acts of the blue-eyed soul sound, this Detroit combo was quite prolific with a career that spans three decades. Their debut combines the soul sound with an exploito-popsike twist that yielded great results as can be heard here.
Friend and Lover - Reach Out of the Darkness (US 1968) This then husband-and-wife duo scored a minor hit with this perfect funky little pop nugget. After two years as a couple and musical act, they'd call it quits in both respects leaving behind one album and a handful of singles that are worth investigating.

Episode 020: A Twenty Ton Balloon May 24, 2021

Episode 020: A Twenty Ton Balloon
Colonel Bagshot - Six Day War (UK 1971) These Liverpool psych freaks take us through a dark and moody tale of the infamous six day war of 1967. They released one stellar LP and a handful of singles during their brief four year run.
Saint Steven - Voyage to Cleveland (US 1969) A mystery artist who recorded only on LP for the Probe label in 1969.
Passing Clouds - At the Head of the List (US 1968) Another lone album American mystery, the Clouds specialized in sticky sweet pop-psych as heard on this introspective number from their sole LP on the very groovy Records By Pete label.
The Hollies - Clown (UK 1966) One of the UK's most successful harmony pop acts whose sound and image evolved with the times like most beat groups, this somber tune tells the sad tale of a clown and the hidden meaning behind his painted on smile.
Iron Butterfly - Belda-Beast (US 1969) San Diego's most famous psychedelic export at once shows us their musical virtuosity and willingness to experiment with sound, mood and texture on this epic number.
The Mothers of Invention - Sleeping in a Jar (US 1969) Frank Zappa and his band of freaks at their prime, offering a quick bizarre ditty that only they could pull off.
Fever Tree - Ninety-Nine And A Half (US 1968) A prolific outfit from Houston, Texas that produced four albums of jammed out psychedelia which perfectly shows the twist Texas bands put on the emerging underground sound.
Tin Tin - Family Tree (UK 1970) UK pop duo that released two albums during their brief four year career, the first of which was produced by Maurice Gibb of the Bee Gees and from where this incredible pop-psych nugget is taken.
Little Boy Blues - Seed of Love (US 1968) A Chicago based group of freaks that produced a handful of singles and one album for Fontana of which this moody bassline driven track is taken.
Sacred Guest Set:
The Children - Beautiful (US 1968)
Mecki Mark Men - Love Feeling (US 1968)
Manpower - Puella! Puella! (Woman! Woman!) (US 1969)
Mr. Flood’s Party - Advice (US 1969)
The Mandrake Memorial - To A Lonely (US 1968)
The Shocking Blue - Love Buzz (Netherlands 1970)
The Cyrkle - She Was Here (US 1967)
The New Mix - The Man (US 1968)
H.P. Lovecraft - Mobius Trip (US 1968)
Summerhill - Follow Us (US 1969)

Episode 019: To Be Nineteen Again May 10, 2021

Episode 019: To Be Nineteen Again
The Who - Our Love Was (UK 1967) One of the most famous exports from the UK who are more known for their bombastic 70's anthems, Pete Towsend and co spearheaded the mod sound and broadcast it to the world with their debut anthem "My Generation". Their lone psychedelic effort "Sell Out" yielded gems such as this one, a tale of a love once stale that is now revived and soaring.
The Gibsons - City Life (Australia 1967) A snooty mod pop big city anthem with an inexplicable feline inspired middle eight by an little known outfit from Australia that relocated to the UK. They released a handful of singles during their brief two year career.
The Tony Hendrik 5 - Said My Say (Germany 1968) Quintessential freakbeat by this obscure band from Cologne, Germany that features a prolific singer-songwriter and producer at the helm. They released one album and many singles during their career, all of which are worth investigating.
The Creation - Midway Down (UK 1968) The UK's finest mod art combo and an unsung influence on many a guitar hero, this 1968 single - a cover of an even more obscure US psych act John Wonderling - catches the band winding down before their eventual demise. This vivid single was the closest the band would get to psychedelia and is one of the last they'd record and release.
The Loot - Baby Come Closer (UK 1967) The sound and feel of this song captures the mood of the mod love song like no other. A stomping beat and catchy riff lead way to a too cool to care vocal that still oozes a desire for his love's affection. The band would release stellar examples of the genre during their brief two year career.
Spooky Tooth - Do Right People (UK 1968) A non-album b-side that shows just how serious this band's chops were, the Spooky's definitely took a page from Traffic's sound and turned it up a notch on this one. One part bass and organ driven soul stomper and one part proto-prog mind melter, this is a perfect example of a band showing off it's roots while showing us a vision of the future.
State of Micky and Tommy - With Love From 1 to 5 (UK 1967) A truly classic mod pop anthem by this clever duo and a song that deserved to be a hit worldwide. This unsung duo only released two singles in their time, but both of such high quality that they are known as staples of the era and are often compiled.
Elmer Gantry's Velvet Opera - Flames (UK 1967) Freakbeat in the truest sense in that this is essentially a turned up and blown out version of a Motown riff. The classic eighth note bass notes that kick it off is an instant nod to their influences before launching the sound into the stratosphere. The band's two albums are essential listening.
The Twilights - Cathy Come Home (Australia 1967) One of the most prolific and successful bands from down under, this proto-powerpop number displays the wonderful songwriting and harmonies of this tight unit
Somebody's Image - Hide and Seek (Australia 1968) Another obscure Australian band that only released three singles during their time - of which this pop-sike beauty is their last - and featured a young Russell Morris who would go on to solo fame.
The Consortium - The Day the Train Never Came (UK 1969) A shortened version of UK pop group The West Coast Consortium, this band released a handful of singles through the late 60's and early 70's that featured a pristine harmony pop sound as evidenced here. The half time middle break is truly a stand out moment in an already magical genre.
The Cedars - For Your Information (Lebanon 1968) Lebanon's prime freakbeat export that combined their native sound with the burgeoning UK freakbeat/pop-sike sound to great effect.

Episode 018: Eighteen Reasons to Forget Apr 26, 2021

Episode 018: Eighteen Reasons to Forget
The Groop - Woman You're Breaking Me (Australia 1967) A fine beat combo from down under that produced three albums and a handful of singles during their brief three year career. With it's stomping beat and frenetic pace , this title track from their final album together may be the group's finest moment.
The Rugbys - You, I (US 1969) A tough and scorching number from a Louisville, KY obscurity that scraped the bottom of the charts with this single, they also produced one album of proto-hard rock that is worth investigating before splitting up.
Bubble Puppy - Hot Smoke & Sasafrass (US 1969) This San Antonio, Texas band is most famous for this single, which is arguably one of the finest examples of American hard psych. From it's feedback intro to the blistering riff that kicks it off, this single packs more in two and a half minutes than most albums of the time even attempted. After one LP for the International Artists label, they'd undergo a name change to Demian and further mine the hard rock path on their sole album for ABC Records.
The Balloon Farm - A Question of Temperature (US 1967) Walking the fine line between garage and hard rock comes this classic American single from an NYC outfit that produced only two singles. The psychedelic hints also further cements the genre bending the band exudes with this single
The Attack - Magic in the Air (UK 1967) An unreleased single from one of the UK's finest freakbeat bands. Their entire catalog is solid and perfectly illustrates the progression from R&B beat combo to acid drenched psychedelia that most bands went through.
Wimple Winch - Atmposhpere (UK 1967) Another contender for freakbeat kings of the UK is this motley bunch, whose riffs were years ahead of their time. Juxtaposing a brutal hard rock section against a bridge reminiscent of the Beach Boys is just one of the many things this band executed flawlessly. After a handful of singles they'd eventually morph into the more prog minded Pacific Drift.
Eire Apparent - The Clown (UK 1968) One of the few bands that can boast of having their debut album produced by Jimi Hendrix, Eire Apparent released one of the finest UK psych albums that often goes overlooked for more rarer yet not as musically adept work. This twisted ode to a clown features incredible backwards guitar work and a smokin' heavy rhythm section.
Majority One - Get Back Home (UK 1969) This UK band made their name across the continent as The Majority before a relocation to France and a name change to Majority One. Their lone album features many fine pop-psych tunes, but nothing quite as searing as this single only b-side that shows them testing out the hard rock waters.
The Nazz - Open My Eyes (US 1968) Todd Rundgren's first vehicle for his songwriting was this band that eventually scored a minor hit with this proto-power pop single. The single stands as one of the finest psychedelic songs by an American band and also shows an obvious UK psych influence. The phasing on the bridge alone warrants this one a place in the history books.
Eric Burdon and The Animals - The Madman (UK 1968) This song was also released as a single by Dantalian's Chariot - which featured a young Andy Summers who would go on to much success with The Police - and then mysteriously appeared in longer form with Eric Burdon on lead on his 1968 album Love Is. This extended version stretches the original's demented groove into an eight minute acid drenched work out.

Episode 017: Seventeen Miles to the Sun Apr 12, 2021

Episode 017: Seventeen Miles to the Sun
The Association - Never My Love (US 1967) A huge hit for these Los Angeles pop chart regulars and the paradigm for what would become the “soft rock” sound with its clear and minimal production that leaves room to emphasize the vocal. The laid back and dreamy quality of this massive single perfectly captures the feeling of being in love and sets a mood that is distinctly California.
The Peppermint Trolley Co - Baby You Come Rolling Across My Mind (US 1968) A Redlands, CA band that cut the original version of the Brady Bunch theme, the Trolleys specialized in breezy sunshine pop as evidenced on this lovely heartfelt tune from their only LP.
The Beach Boys - Feel Flows (US 1971) Brian Wilson and Co. never quite recovered from the media fiasco that was Smile, but arguably, they wrote and released their finest material during the band’s decline in popularity in the 70’s. Afforded recording technology only few in the world could claim to own, their 70’s output sounds ahead of their time due to both the clarity of the production and their experiments with electronics and synthesizers, as can be heard on this stunning number - one that hundreds of rock bands would mimic in the 90’s.
Harpers Bizzare - Witchi Tai To (US 1969) Santa Cruz sunshine pop masters that found early success with a few hits under their belt and featured a young Ted Templeman, who would go on to be a producer of many iconic pop hits. This sweet version of a Jim Pepper tune shows off both their soaring harmonies and the hallmark psychedelic production of the time.
The Mamas and the Papas - Step Out (US 1971) Taken from the last album these legendary hit-makers would produce, this light and funky tune features a heavy rhythm by LA’s wrecking crew studio musicians that offsets the sugary vocals of the group. It makes one wonder what direction they would have pursued had they continued into the 70’s.
The Millennium - It’s You (US 1968) The studio project of fearless pop experimentalist Curt Boettcher, these LA misfits featured a cast of songwriters and singers that could each hold their own as solo artists. This proto Buckingham-Nicks era Fleetwood Mac-esque stunner is taken from their only album which is a masterpiece of soft harmony laden pop-psych.
Yes - Sweetness (UK 1969) The love affair between UK bands and the US west coast harmony pop bands proved a source of constant reciprocated inspiration for both camps. Before veering head first into prog territory, Yes dipped their toes into a more jammed out version of harmony pop as heard on this early original from their debut. More evidence can be heard on their lovely take on The Byrds I See You from the same LP.

The Orange Bicycle - Carry That Weight (UK 1969) Another west coast sound obsessed UK outfit that turns this Beatles classic into a proto Eagles harmony jam, they released one in LP in 1970 after a three year run of fine pop-psych singles.
Ian Matthew’s Southern Comfort - Tonight (UK 1970) Mr. Matthews nailed the west coast harmony pop so perfectly that you’d think he was a Los Angeles native. This is no surprise, as his previous outfit The Fairport Convention arguably may be one of the first UK bands to take on the west coast sound as their own. This smooth number is years ahead of it’s time and foreshadows a sound that he and so many would take less than a decade later.
Bread - It Don’t Matter to Me (US 1969) It’s only fitting to end this episode with a band whose sound would loom large over the 70’s. Bread’s ballads were extra personal, heartfelt and tender and foreshadowed both the sensitive singer-songwriter movement and AOR soft rock that would dominate the decade. Though the band featured three songwriters, David Gates was responsible for all of their singles and hits.

Episode 016: When Sixteen Sirens Sing Mar 29, 2021

Episode 016: When Sixteen Sirens Sing: A Celebration of Women in Music
Elizabeth Cotten - Wilson Rag (US 1958)
A self taught master of the guitar, Cotten played hers upside down - like Hendrix later would - and pioneered finger picking styles that would influence folk musicians for decades to come.
Elyse Weinberg - Deed I Do (US 1969)
Canadian singer-songwriter who moved to Los Angeles in the late 60's and quickly fell in with the canyon scene, her pal Neil Young not only spurred her move to the West Coast, but is also featured on her album from from which this stunning Bert Jansch cover is taken.
Judy Henske & Jerry Yester - Charity (US 1969)
After cutting her teeth with two solo albums for Elektra in the early 60's, this versatile singer recorded the folk-psych masterpiece Farewell Aldebaren with her then husband Jerry Yester. The album veers in all sorts of directions, but the center of it all is the intense voice of Henske as heard on this mini epic number.
GTO's - Do Me In Once And I'll Be Sad, Do Me In Twice And I'll Know Better (Circular Circulation) (US 1969)
Girls Together Outrageously are the inventors of the term "groupie" and a motley gang of women who formed a ballet art collective that opened for Frank Zappa around Los Angeles. Zappa produced an LP for the Girls on his Straight record label, which is one of the most fascinating time capsules of late 1960's Los Angeles.
The Goodees - A Little Bit of You (US 1969)
This Memphis band specialized in an updated "girl group" sound and scored a minor hit with their first single "Condition Red". This sweet love song is taken from their only album and captures the Goodees' sound perfectly.
The Feminine Complex - Forgetting (US 1969)
Also dabbling in girl group territory is this infectious song from these Nashville legends taken from their sole classic album Livin' Love. The LP offers a variety of different sounds, from sultry ballads to acid rock, but their tight harmonies shine on this adorable pop tune.
Minnie Riperton - Oh By the Way (US 1970)
Minnie is a superstar who needs little introduction! This tune is taken from her first solo effort Come Into My Garden which was produced by Charles Stepney - producer of her flagship band The Rotary Connection. The album's sound is similar, even covering a few of their classics, but the spotlight is solely on Minnie and her incredible voice.
The City - All My Time (US 1968)
The City was the first vehicle for singer-songwriter Carol King, who would prove to be one of the greatest of her generation. Their album Now That Everything's Been Said features many of King's early compositions as well her fantastic lead vocals. This album cut shows that she is already a master of the aching love song this early in the game.
Linda Perhacs - Sandy Toes (US 1970)
A former dental assistant who was urged to sing by one her clients, Perhacs cut her debut Parallelograms in 1970. Disappointed by the sound of the vinyl at the time, she then returned to a life away from the music business before returning with follow up albums more than 30 years later after her album became a cult classic.
Penny Nichols - Look Around Rock (US 1968)
Orange County singer-songwriter who released one album from which this beautiful song - featuring an incredible jazz inspired middle section - is taken .
Karen Dalton - Katie Cruel (US 1971)
Folk singer with a haunting voice reminiscent of Billy Holiday, Dalton was an integral part of the Greenwich Village folk scene that inspired so many to pick up a guitar and sing. Both of her albums are essential listens.

Episode 015: Fifteen Islands In the Sun Mar 15, 2021

Episode 015: Fifteen Islands In the Sun: 70's Pinoy Rock
Juan Dela Cruz Band - Himig Natin (Philippines 1973)
THE pioneer rock band from the Philippines that kicked off the Pinoy Rock revolution, Juan Dela Cruz is actually not a member of the band, but a moniker chosen by the trio of Wally Gonzalez, Mike Hanopol and Joey Smith. Each member would also produce stellar solo work as evidenced on this episode. This song shows that though the hard rocking sounds of Deep Purple and Nazareth inspired the island, the spacey and psychedelic sounds of Pink Floyd also made quite an impact.
Mike Hanopol - Araw (Philippines 1977)
Hanopol may be the most prolific of the band members in terms of solo work, releasing four albums between 1977 and 1980 that expanded on the Pinoy Rock sound. After a brief hiatus he again returned with a few more releases in the 1990's and 2000's. This song continues to show the Floyd influence while showing the unique spin the scene put on this proto-space rock.
Judas - Dukha (Philippines 1977)
An obscure outfit that only released two singles during their brief time together, this gut wrenching downer track is the a-side of their debut. It seems that an album was recorded but not released until 2005.
Freddie Aguilar - Anak Ng Mahirap (Philippines 1978)
Possibly the biggest success story from the Philippines is the title track to the album from which this song is pulled, Anak which is tagalog for Child. An English version of the song became a worldwide hit in several countries, making this LP one of the easier ones to find from this era. Freddie's success lead to a prolific run of eight albums between 1978 and 1980, all focusing on his unique take on folk rock.
Eddie Munji III - Doon Po Sa Amin (Philippines 1978)
A scorching jazz instrumental from the lone album by guitarist and arranger Eddie Munjii who also had a hand in arranging for pop band Apo Hiking Society. His album Pinoy Jazz showcases his incredible guitar virtuosity and skill at encompassing a broad range of 70's jazz sounds. He'd follow up the album with Ryan Cyabyab on his 1977 effort Pinoy Jazz II.
Wally Gonzalez - Tatlong Araw (Philippines 1978)
This Juan Dela Cruz member released an incredible album in 1978 with a cover that rivals most for "the most bad ass cover ever" award. The spacey slow ballads - as shown here - bump up against Zeppelin influenced hard rock numbers that shows off the band's chops. If there is one album you seek out to delve into the sound, this may be it.
Juan Dela Cruz Band - Himig Natin (Philippines 1973)
A quick outro by the pioneers, and one of my personal favorites from the time, as the sound design is top notch.

Episode 014: Fourteen Miles Below (Diggin' Up the Daisies Vol. 02) Mar 01, 2021

Episode 014: Fourteen Miles Below (Diggin' Up the Daisies Vol. 02)
Harry Nilsson - Rainmaker (US 1969)
Classic and oft covered feel good tune from this prolific singer songwriter from his Harry release. Making his way in Los Angeles after leaving his native Brooklyn, Nilsson cut many a fine album and had quite a psychedelic start. His greatest successes came in the early to mid 70's despite the lack of a heavy touring schedule.
Paul Butterfield Blues Band - Last Hope's Gone (US 1968)
Chicago based singer and harmonica player that found success both with his blues band and later as a solo artist. This moody cut from their In My Own Dream album with it's wide open opening bass notes became prime fodder for the 90's era of hip-hop artists looking to dig for deeper sounds.
Lou Rawls - You've Made Me So Very Happy (US 1970)
One of David Axelrod's lesser hyped productions, it's minimal piano intro still made perfect sample for one of rap's most beautiful songs. Originally by Motown act Brenda Holloway, it eventually became a massive hit for Blood, Sweat and Tears whose version informs this one,
David Axelrod - The Signs (Part 2) (US 1969)
Speaking of Axelrod, a little back to back Axe never hurt no one. After two instrumental LP's, Axelrod's third album was a vocal affair and a concept built on the importance of environmental awareness. Theme wise the album is ahead of it's time and stands unique in his catalog as his lone vocal based solo release
Spirit - Ice (US 1969)
A haunting and incredible instrumental from these Los Angeles legends featuring the epic guitar work of Randy California. All of their albums are well worth seeking out.
Lalo Schifrin - The Danube Incident
The master of the moody soundtrack provides this classic track was that was sampled into a staple of the burgeoning "trip-hop" movement of the mid 90's. Following the massive success of his Mission:Impossible score, this gem comes from the follow up More Mission: Impossible LP.
The Cyrkle - The Vistation (US 1966)
Possibly the strangest song to ever be sampled, as there is no obvious drum or bass groove to be heard, But as the late 90's saw more and more experimentation in sampling, the vocal parts of songs - once maligned as getting in the way - became samples themselves, The buttery harmonies laid down by these Pennsylvania based harmony pop wonders proved just the thing needed to spark an idea.
Giorgio - Tears (Italy 1972)
A pre-fame Giorgio Moroder when he was poised to be a solo star versus the studio virtuoso he would later become. From his album Son of My Father, this instrumental became one of the most infamous samples from the up and coming instrumental hip-hop scene in the mid 90's.
Ronald Stein - Go Home Pigs (US 1970)
Another soundtrack gem from the golden era where almost any from the time may offer a hidden gem to re-purpose. This anti-police exploito track became a bigger hit once sampled in the late 90;s.
The Sons - You Can Fly (US 1969) Dropping the Champlin from their name for their 1969 album, these Marin County funk rock freaks drop a breakbeat classic that is sure to get the dancefloor movin'. The Sons had a successful run of albums and are recommended for those who dig that funky Bay Area sound,

Episode 013: Thirteen Limericks For Limerence Feb 14, 2021

Episode 013: Thirteen Limericks For Limerence
The Nazz - Hello It’s Me (US 1968)
Philadelphia’s pride and joy, The Nazz were fronted by the very prolific Todd Rundgren who led them through three stellar albums before embarking on a solo successful career, during which he would cover this song into a top 10 hit. Written about a lost high school love, the original is a hauntingly slower and somber affair than it’s more famous re-recorded sibling.
The 13th Floor Elevators - Splash 1 (Now I'm Home) (US 1966)
Infamous for the much documented tortured life of their enigmatic leader Roky Erickson, these Austin freaks are essential to the story of American garage and psychedelia. Though known for their fuzz guitars and bizarre electric jug, Roky proves that he can write a ballad that’s as affecting as anything in their bulletproof catalog.
Steve Miller Band - Dear Mary (US 1968)
One of San Francisco’s finest and a key band in forming the sound synonymous with the area, Steve and the boys slowed it way down for this beautiful tune from their sophomore LP. The tempo and descending lines are inline with the Whiter Shade of Pale influence of the time, but the delicate nature of the vocal give it a timelessness that makes still sounds fresh today.
The Velvet Underground - Candy Says (Mono Closet Mix - US 1969)
No other band took a decidedly drastic left turn than these kings of New York noise. with their third album. After continuing their sonic experiments and art guitar feedback for two consecutive albums, the Velvets decided they had done all the weird things they could do save for write normal songs. Thus, their self titled album is filled with slow and gentle ballads which was an unexpected move at the time. This sparse and fragile masterpiece sounds like it may fall apart at any time which is part of its beauty. This is the original “closet mix” that Lou Reed did before it was later replaced with a more balanced mix.
The Feminine Complex - Are You Lonesome Like Me? (US 1969)
These ladies from Nashville made one PERFECT album that has shockingly clear and defined production which at times makes it seem as though some of the songs could have been released within the last two decades. This sweet tale of new love captures the uncertainty of those first initial steps.
Fairport Convention - Decameron (UK 1968)
Though not garage per se, these UK folk-rock heroes showed a strong west coast acid rock influence on their debut. They showed their gentler side on this sad stunner, which is one of the few originals on their essential debut album.
Love - A Message to Pretty (US 1966)
These Los Angeles Sunset Strip regulars had a an early hand in developing the American garage sound with their pioneering singles and was led by Arthur Lee who also shared songwriting duties with second guitarist Bryan Maclean. Maclean’s songs were the softer of the two, and here it seems like his influence has spilled over to Lee who tries his hand a love ballad for his mysterious “pretty”.
The Byrds - Here Without You (US 1965)
What’s to be said about this band other than Los Angeles owes them their own holiday? This Gene Clark original from their debut strangely seems like the inspiration for their later psych classic Eight Miles High. This heartbreaking tune is one of the first he ever wrote for the band, stemming from their previous incarnation The Jet Set, and captures the melancholy feeling of loneliness from an unrequited love.
The West Coast Pop Art Experimental Band - I Won’t Hurt You (US 1967)
A truly magnificent minimal love song by a strange Los Angeles underground oddity with a checkered past. Nonetheless, this song is light years ahead of it’s time and one of the band’s catalog defining highlights amongst many.

Episode 012: Hour Hands at Twelve O'Clock Feb 01, 2021

Episode 012: Hour Hands at Twelve O'Clock
01 Stevie Wonder - Look Around (US 1971) Covered in what sounds like an electric harpsichord, this beautiful and contemplative tune by Stevie from his often overlooked 1971 album Where I'm From simultaneously addresses the ills of the world while reminding us that the world itself is an illusion. Wonder would continued to pepper his 70's classic albums with psychedelic touches here and there, but one may argue that he came the closest to a true psych-out with this one.

02 Allen Touissant - Southern Nights (US 1975) Ultra-classic tune from a New Orleans legend that would eventually be covered by Glen Campbell into a massive chart topper. Touissant's original features the infamous Leslie cabinet speaker effect on this voice, at once giving it a psychedelic edge not too often heard on soul songs from the era. This combined with the languid nature of the track and lyrics filled with vivid southern imagery make it a bonafide psych-soul staple.
03 Cymande - Changes (UK 1974) This UK band created some of the most unique and celebrated funk music of the time. Combining elements from their rastafarian faith along with a distinct socially conscious soul sound, they would go on to release three albums during their prime, all of which are stellar. This gorgeous mellow number is a bit somber, but nonetheless shows their power at creating a deep and contemplative ballad that grooves.
04 Manu Dibango - Hibiscus (Camaroon 1972) Taken from his breakthrough album Soul Makossa that features many a dancefloor scorcher, saxophonist Manu Dibango also shows a deeper side to his sound filled with wah-wah guitars and a bass propelled groove. Something in Manu's playing and the overall syrupy vibe of the track makes me wonder if they were drinking from the same THC filled stew Fela concocted. Nonetheless, Manu and co are able to communicate a heady space without a single word.
05 William S. Fischer - Patience is a Virtue (US 1970) Fischer wastes no time getting this one going with a list of women whom he'd like to communicate his simple yet effective chorus to. This wonderful riff based groover is taken from his 1970 debut Circles which is filled with electronic and psychedelic soul experiments. Fischer went on to release three obscure albums in 1972 that are all worth seeking out.
06 Ike White - I Remember George (US 1976) We end this episode with a true journey. Singer Ike White released his sole album in 1976 while in the midst of serving a murder sentence at San Quentin. The album is a stunning long lost classic - and while that is an accolade often thrown around, it is never more fitting that in the case of this LP. This track goes through multiple movements - beginning with the sounds of inner space before launching into a mellow introduction that culminates with an uplifting middle section that nods to Stevie Wonder. Wonder would also provide the liner notes to the album, lending even more folklore of the origins of the album. After a campaign to overturn his case, White was eventually was released from prison in 1979.

Episode 011: And Eleven Moons Jan 18, 2021

Episode 011: And Eleven Moons
01 Love - Dream (US 1969) Love are Los Angeles legends and often credited as one of the first interracial rock bands of the 60's. Led by the enigmatic Arthur Lee, the original quintet fell apart after releasing their classic Forever Changes album. Lee quickly reassembled a new band and recorded two albums, the first of which would complete his now expiring contract with Elektra and from which this somber rocker is pulled.

02 P.P. Arnold - If You Think You’re Groovy (US 1967) Los Angeles born Patricia Ann Cole started life in the Ikettes before striking out on her own with a relocation to London. Capturing the hearts of the Immediate records crew, she was thrust into the spotlight as one of the darlings of the UK mod scene. She recorded 2 albums with Andrew Loog Oldham featuring his trademark orchestral pop sound before heading back to the states.
03 Jimi Hendrix - One Rainy Wish (US 1967) A masterpiece in every sense of the word, this swirling psychedelic nugget is one of many highlights found on the Experience's sophomore album. Filled with cascading guitar lines that don't let up til the last seconds, this exquisite piece shows that Hendrix created things as pretty and light as he did heavy and dark. It's safe to say that no other musician pushed the sound of psychedelic guitar further than Jimi.
04 Bobby Calendar - Nature (US 1968) Mr. Callendar cut his teeth on a few pop singles before morphing into the psychedelic mystic that produced this mind melter from his debut album. Bobby dipped into all the colors of the era, creating wonderfully delicate and soft harmony psych one minute before taking a left turn with a sitar drenched dirge the next. He would go on to produce another 2 albums before calling it quits in 1972.
05 Black Velvet - The Clown (UK 1969) B-side to the debut single by these UK psychedelic funk freaks that brings a heavy downer vibe with this ode to a mysterious clown. The band released 3 albums during their 4 year life span and are all worth investigating.
06 Nina Simone - To Love Somebody (US 1969) The title track to Nina's stunning album of 60's rock classics shows her wiling to take on the burgeoning pop scene with both appreciation and mastery. Good luck getting your song back after she covers it! Her version of the Bee Gees' lament to lost love beefs up the rhythm while retaining the sense of loss the original captures so well
07 Eugene McDaniels - Welfare City (US 1970) Eugene first found fame as Gene McDaniels in a more traditional pop singer mold before using his full name once signing with Atlantic in 1970. Along with his new label, he also found a new sound fueled by the political climate of the time. Taken from his Outlaw album, this song sounds like a long lost folk-rock number backed by a heavy rhythm section.
08 Parliament - Silent Boatman (US 1970) George Clinton founded this band in 1965 as the Parliaments before dropping the s and his first doses of Owsley in 1969. The yin to his twin group Funkadelic's yang, these misfits came mighty close to a pastoral psych sound with this track from their 1970 debut. Written by frequent collaborator, UK songstress Ruth Copeland, this beautiful number is covered in acoustic guitars, bagpipes and an heartfelt vocal.
09 Rotary Connection - Amuse (US 1970) Chicago's finest psychedelic soul export that featured a young Minnie Ripperton, this severely underrated group released 7 albums in their 4 year career and are all worth seeking out. This acoustic beauty is a rare solo Minnie acoustic track that is free of Charles Stepney's wall of sound production. It also strangely foreshadows her future hit "Loving You" in it's sparseness.

Episode 010: This One Goes to Eleven Jan 04, 2021

Episode 010: This One Goes to Eleven (featuring guest set from Hymnal)
The first set is dedicated to Rex Thompson AKA Tartarex who inspired me to collect psychedelic music.
01 The Petards - Tartarex (Germany 1969) This German pop band's finest moment and the tune that Rex took on as his moniker.

02 The Gods - Real Love Guaranteed (UK 1969) As heard on Episode 002, this 45 only scorcher by these UK heavies features future members of Uriah Heep.
03 Kippington Lodge - Turn Out the Light (UK 1968) Before evolving into their guitarist Brinsley Scwarz's namesake, this quartet released five singles that are fine examples of the genre.
04 The Pretty Things - Talking About the Good Times (UK 1968 - US Promo 45 Mix) A rare mix from these UK legends sourced from a promo only US 45 that would have fit perfectly on their classic SF Sorrow LP.
05 Shy Limbs - Reputation (UK 1969) Sublime UK pop-psych by this obscure outfit that featured Greg Lake of King Crimson and ELP fame.
06 The End - Shades of Orange (UK 1968) Produced by the Stones' Bill Wyman and bearing a striking resemblance to their work of the time, these dashing lads would eventually greet the 70's as hard rock titans Tucky Buzzard.
07 The Syn - Flowerman (UK 1967) UK flower power at it's finest, the Syn features a pre-Yes Chris Squire and Peter Banks.
08 Rob De Neys - Bye Bye Mrs. Turple (UK 1967) Dutch pop star who released this bizarre exploito single that actually quite works despite it's truly nonsensical lyrics.
09 People - Glastonbury (UK 1971) A one off studio creation for a single on Deram that features haunting harmonies and a hard hitting percussive rhythm section.
10 Time Machine - Turn Back the Time (France 1971) Surprisingly common 45 by an obscure French combo that may be a studio creation. The flip is a stunning backwards take of the A-Side.

Hymnal Guest Set:
01 Strange-Annihilation (US 1973). Florida Guitar Rock band fronted by Terry Brooks. Non LP single on Brook's private label Outer Galaxie (Narration by Edmond Goode).
02 Weasel-24th Goodwill Street (US 1971 promo) Sole release by this midwestern heavy rock outfit from El Dorado, Kansas. Recorded at Soundville Records in Houston, Texas,
and released by Westpark Records. This is the rare DJ advance copy with the song writers' names mismatched. Fewer than 20 copies of this single are known to exist.
03 Bob Goodsite-Faze I (Phase One) (US 1972) The A side of this single, a cover of ‘Our House’ by Graham Nash, cannot prepare you for the the compressed and phased-out slab of instrumental guitar-rock that is ‘Faze I.’ Recorded at Sound Patterns in Farmington, Michigan. The explosive grip of this brief track will make you hunger for a larger project in this style.
04 Joe Rosanova & The Vineyard-Dreams of You (US 1971 single test pressing) Named after the drummer Joe Rosanova, this soft rock lounge band from Tennessee creates a psychedelic masterpiece worthy of The Cream. This version is a 1971 single test pressing from their 1968 LP & appears to be the only way to get this song on a 45.
05 Cucumber-Under (US 1968) No details on this obscure band but for the composer, a Robert Esposito. Let the use of extreme fuzz as a compositional tool here be instructive to many a modern shoe-gaze producer. On the Cobblestone label. Thank you Mr. Esposito.
06 Medusa-Temptress (US 1976) Released on the Pepperhead label out of Oak Park Illinois, this Chicago band produced this drifting mid-tempo stoner-rock ballad laden with echoey vocals. This single is the groups only official output, however, 4-track tapes of a full LP have recently surfaced.

Episode 009: Nine Degrees Below Dec 21, 2020

Episode 009: Nine Degrees Below
01 The Tremeloes - Suddenly Winter (UK 1968 - Mono Mix) One of the key groups to break through during the British Invasion, this UK outfit caught the psychedelic bug like so many in 1968 and managed to come up with a few contributions to the era. This album cut with it's searing backwards guitar work is probably the finest example they ever laid down.

02 The Marmalade - I See the Rain (UK 1967 - Mono 45 Mix) Another UK pop group responsible for many hits during the psychedelic era, this single has the distinction of being Jimi Hendrix's favorite for the year of 1967. It's a pity he never recorded his own version, as the main riff is one of the best of the time and most certainly would have proved an interesting launching point for him. The Marmalade continued to churn out the hits well into the 70's and have a catalog worth digging into.
03 Gloria - The Storm (Netherlands 1969) Dutch group that started in the mid 1960's specializing in a very European brand of epic pop as heard on this thundering - pun intended - B-side that grows more and more dark in imagery and intense in tempo until its final notes. They recorded three albums and many singles before calling it quits in the mid 70's.
04 The Troggs - When Will the Rain Come (UK 1967) Another British Invasion staple - infamous for their era defining hit single and garage standard "Wild Thing" - the group would morph with the times and dip their toes into psychedelia with the flower power single "Love is All Around" of which this moody number graces its flip.
05 Mid Day Rain - Welcome to the Rain (US 1970) Mystery US combo that released only one song during their existence. Quite a pity, as this incredibly smooth stunner makes one only imagine what a whole LP may have sounded like.
06 Toast - Flowers Don't Bend in the Rainfall (UK 1970) Obscure UK outfit that also recorded only one single in their lifetime. The A-Side is this wonderfully produced cover of a Simon & Garfunkel B-side.
07 The Easybeats - Come in You'll Get Pneumonia (Australia 1967) The most famous Aussie export during the 60's beat boom, the Easys went on to record several albums that reflect the changing times and sounds of the era. This cold-hearted - pun intended - pop-psych classic has all the usual studio tricks of the era but with a soaring chorus sets itself apart as something only they can pull off.
08 Majority One - I Don't Mind the Rain (UK 1971) Also featured on our previous episode, these UK harmony pop freaks found more success on the continent versus their native land. This pop-psych beauty sounds like it was recorded three years prior and can be found on their stellar debut LP.
09 Strawberry Alarm Clock - Rainy Day Mushroom Pillow (US 1967 - Mono Mix) The most famous group of the exploitation psych era, the Clocks wore their flower power loud and proud by storming onto the charts with the bubblegum classic "Incense and Peppermints". This album cut from their debut shows that they could write a convincingly lysergic pop song when given the chance.
10 Tommy Roe - It's Now A Winter's Day (US 1967) Mr. Roe hit the charts with a string of bubblegum classics from the early 60's, beginning a career spanning four decades. In 1966 he teamed up with producer Curt Boettcher who was putting together his harmony pop super group The Millennium and thus used them as background vocalists on Roe's albums. He also used this an opportunity to cut his teeth on his brave sonic experiments that would come to full fruition on the Millennium's debut. This delay drenched title track to their second album collaboration of 1967 shows his studio wizardry already in full swing as well as the unmistakable harmonies of the Millennium.

Episode 008: Eight Shattered Ornaments Dec 07, 2020

Episode 008: Eight Shattered Ornaments
01 The Rolling Stones - Cosmic Christmas (UK 1967) This unlisted track ends the first side of The Stones' sole psychedelic effort.

02 Claudine Longet - I Don’t Intend to Spend Christmas Without You (France 1967) Thanks to our friends at RPM International for contributing this fantastic Christmas love song by France's soft-voiced starlet. This single only offering is a sparkly pop wonder with pristine production typical of the time.
03 The Rotary Connection - Christmas Child (US 1968) Minnie Riperton and company offer this groovy holiday original written by producer Charles Stepney, taken from their 1968 Christmas album Peace. A combination of soulful takes on classics and originals make it a perfect soundtrack to the season.
04 Twice As Much & Vashti Bunyan - Coldest Night of the Year (UK 1968) This British duo of Dave Skinner and Andrew Rose recorded two albums for Immediate records of which this classic wintry tune graces their second. Originally by Nino Tempo and April Stevens, the duo teamed up with folk chanteuse Vashti Bunyan during per pop singer days to produce their version of this perfect pop nugget.
05 The Chamber Brothers - Merry Christmas, Happy New Year (US 1969) Along with Sly Stone, the Brothers Chamber were one of the first bands to send psychedelic soul to the pop charts. This single only offering is indebted to the aforementioned legend, combining his trademark fuzz guitar groove with rotating lead vocals into a psych-funk holiday workout.
06 Paul Revere & The Raiders - Rain, Sleet, Snow (US 1967 - Mono Mix) A fuzz-laden holiday banger from one of America's greatest garage pop successes, this ode to the pangs of working for the US Postal Service during the holiday season is taken from their 1967 Christmas LP.
07 The Majority - All Our Christmases (UK 1968) Beginning life as Majority One, these British lads laid down many a fine single as well as a stellar LP during their brief two year career. This waltzy number shows a strong Hollies harmony pop influence.
08 Wild Silk - Toymaker (UK 1969) Mysteriously released as Basil in the US, this UK obscurity is a classic example of toytown psychedelia. Thought not explicitly about Christmas, there is only one night of the year in which this toymaker must frantically work to meet his deadline. The band released four singles of fine UK pop over their two year existence.
09 Saturday’s Children - Christmas Sounds (US 1966) A sweet holiday pop number by this Chicago area band who recorded three singles for the Dunwich label from 1966 to 1967 before calling it quits.
10 Bee Gees - First of May (UK 1969) The Australian brothers' 1969 concept album Odessa shows a band in flux from their Beatle-esque pop-psych era into more orchestrated pop territory before finding their true calling with soul and funk-rock in the 70's. This beautiful number tells the heartbreaking tale of lost love using Christmas trees as a metaphor.
11 Robin Gibb - Lord Bless All (UK 1970) During the brief time that this brother Gibb left The Bee Gees due to lead vocal disputes, he recorded a solo LP that proved years ahead of its time. Though not the most consistent set, it showed some of the earliest drum machine experiments in rock. This gorgeous track washed in reverb showcases what Robin would have continued to experiment with had he not returned back to his original band later in the year,
12 Simon & Garfunkel - 7 ‘O Clock News/Silent Night (US 1966 - Mono Mix) We end things with this somber take on a holiday classic by the masters of folk-rock. This striking rendition closes their classic Parsley, Sage, Rosemary & Thyme album.

Episode 007: Seven & Seven Is Nov 23, 2020

Episode 007: Seven & Seven Is: Sounds from Los Angeles
01 Love - 7 & 7 Is (1966 - 45 Mono Mix) This proto-punk stunner is still years ahead of its time and set the bar for what could be done within the confines of a 2 minute single. Led by the enigmatic Arthur Lee, Love is responsible for some of the greatest music to come from the city.
02 The Byrds - Why (1966 - 45 Mono Mix) The kings of Los Angeles jangle took off for headier sounds with their single “Eight Miles High” of which this is the b-side. This take differs from the album version and packs a more immediate punch, capturing the Coltrane-esque solo they were going for better than the flip.
03 Lee Mallory - That’s the Way (1966 - 45 Mono Mix) This harmony pop rocker is the first collaboration between producer Curt Boettcher and singer Lee Mallory, laying the groundwork for legendary pop psych band The Millennium. Their unmistakable harmonies are already in place and the bridge provides the perfect pallet for Curt's sonic experiments.
04 West Coast Pop Art Experimental Band - If You Want This Love (1967) Brothers Dan and Shaun Harris recruited pal Michael Loyd to form a band that was then co-opted by scenester Bob Markley. This fuzzy folk rocker is taken from their first album which, like most of their catalog, is a mix of earnest pop-sike by the brothers and strange ramblings from Markley.
05 Kim Fowley - Bubblegum (1968) Speaking of scenester, Kim Fowley may be the reason the word exists. A constant on the scene, he involved himself with many a band from the city in some form or fashion. His solo efforts are patchy affairs, but this early hard rock number featuring Mars Bonfire of Steppenwolf finds him finding his muse.
06 The Standells - Did You Ever Have The Feeling (1967 - Mono Mix) Unlike may of their contemporaries, the Standells are one of the few bands that were unaffected by trends. The slight eastern overtones in this song are the closest the band would come to experimenting with psychedelia, as they called it a day before the flower power bandwagon appeared.
07 The Hook - Son of Fantasy (1968) After his time in the Leaves, Bobby Arlin teamed up with Buddy Sklar to form the more hard rock inclined The Hook. They produced two albums for Uni before calling it quits, of which this dark riff heavy tune graces their first.
08 The Peanut Butter Conspiracy - Dark On You Now (1967 - Mono Mix) Classic jangly folk-rock from this band formed from the demise of The Ashes. The band called it a day after two albums for Columbia and one for local label Challenge.
09 Spirit - Uncle Jack (1967 - 45 Mono Mix) Sounding like a long lost UK psych 45, this early single by these LA legends is uncharacteristic of their usual sound, which combined moody and introspective songs with guitarist Randy California's epic fretwork.
10 The Monkees - For Pete’s Sake (1967 - Mono Mix) Although often maligned for being a "fake band", the Monkees eventually came into their own. This song is the first written by Peter Tork and features Mickey Dolenz on vocals.
11 The Merry Go Round - Time Will Show the Wiser (1967 - Mono Mix) Led by Emitt Rhodes, this South Bay band recorded one magnificent album before Rhodes embarked on a solo career.
12 The Electric Prunes - Wind Up Dolls (1967 - Mono Mix) This SFV based band found early success and recorded two albums for Reprise in 1967 before splitting up. Their following two releases were produced by David Axelrod and feature none of the original band members
13 Buffalo Springfield - Everydays (1967 - Mono Mix) Recorded live at Gold Star studios, this stunning number shows both Stephen Stills strength as a song writer as well as Neil Young's fearless guitar experiments.

Episode 006: Six Feet Deep (Diggin' Up the Daisies Vol. 01) Nov 09, 2020

Episode 006: Six Feet Deep (Diggin' Up the Daisies Vol. 01)
1. The Rascals - My World (US 1968 - Mono Mix) Classic feel good tune from this New Jersey band that had a string of hits in their early days as The Young Rascals. This is taken from their 1968 pop-psych LP Once Upon a Dream that is strung together with trippy effects and features many highlights. It's an interesting sample to become a rap song, as it doesn't have a strong drum element but the melodic elements are ripe for the picking.
2. Eric Burdon & War -Magic Mountain (US 1970 - Mono Mix Radio Edit) This one chord jam is the b-side and twin sister to hit single "Spill the Wine" and features a super punchy bass-heavy groove and classic harmonica intro that became a defining statement once re-imagined as a rap tune. It would also reappear on a "trip-hop" classic later in the next decade.
3. The Grass Roots - You and Love are the Same (US 1968) Making a splash with their flower power anthem "Live for Today", this studio project for songwriters Lou Adler and PF Sloan eventually became a real band. This album cut ended up on a volume of 80's sample fodder series Ultimate Breaks and Beats and thus turned into a classic rap tune shortly after. I wonder who was the first person to have the patience to find that pounding little bridge?
4. Sly & The Family Stone - Trip Through Your Heart (US 1967) This tune is one of Sly's few overtly psychedelic tunes and is taken from his band's debut that fell on deaf ears. Filled with lyrics aimed to appeal at the hippie crowd and trippy band made sound effects, this tune shows Sly starting to stumble on the formula that would eventually make him successful.
5. The Bubble Gum Machine - I Wonder (US 1968 - Mono Mix) Starting life as the Fabulous Fakes, this band of siblings and local friends changed their name before recording their lone album for Senate. The groove on this one is prime sample material and shows how deep some beat makers were getting into one-off obscurities at the time.
6. Mashmakhan - I Know I’ve Been Wrong (Canada 1970) Surprised with a hit single from their debut album, these Canadians specialized in epic blue-eyed soul heavy on the brass arrangements. This gem features a catchy organ riff that served as inspiration for a classic golden era album cut. After a brief two year stint and follow up album the band called it a day.
7. The Rotary Connection - Memory Band (US 1968) Chicago's finest featuring production from the late and great Charles Stepney, the Connection also served as the first creative outlet for young singer Minnie Ripperton, whose soaring vocals can be heard throughout this sparkling tune. The four note sitar melody on the intro would provide inspiration for not one but two classic 90's hip-hop staples.
8. Elephants Memory - Mongoose (US 1970) Initially finding success scoring late the late 60's classic Midnight Cowboy, this bad of misfits eventually found success as John Lennon and Yoko Ono's backing band for a spell. In between, they'd cut an album of heavy rock from which this classic breakbeat track is taken.
9. Music Machine - Come On In (US 1966 - Mono Mix) Sean Bonniwell lead this band to success with their hit single Talk Talk that was featured on their debut LP along with this groovy number. The intro served as the bridge to a gangster rap classic and shows that beat diggers on the west coast were tuned in to a sightly different frequency when it came to sample fodder.
10. The Jimi Hendrix Experience - Are You Experienced? (UK 1967 - Mono Mix) To further the last point, this hallmark of music production became source material for both a west coast bohemian rap staple and - if you listen carefully- gangster rap anthem.

Episode 005: Five Days 'til Allhallowtide Oct 26, 2020

Episode 005: Five Days 'til Allhallowtide
01 De Maskers - Death (Netherlands 1967) Dutch beat combo that dabbled in psychedelia in the late 60’s, De Maskers bring an over the top sense of drama for their eerie ode to death. They would continue on releasing singles until calling it quits at the dawn of the 70's.

02 Jason Crest - Black Mass (UK 1967) Speaking of over the top, even in a genre hell bent on effects and experiments, this song stands out as one of the most truly demented of its time. With a completely backwards backing track and shrieking witch-like vocals, this otherwise cheerful pop quintet from the UK do their best to summon the dead on tape. While only active for a year, their singles and demos are revered as some of the finest examples of the UK pop-psych genre.

03 Cape Kennedy Construction Co - Armageddon (UK 1969) Has the end of the world ever sounded so beautiful? A one off UK obscurity that paints a bleak yet exquisite picture of our earth’s demise, the phased explosions are a particularly delightful part of the kitchen sink.

04 Los Gatos - En El Año 2000 (Argentina 1970) One of Argentina’s top rock exports, these freaky felines gave their take on the end of time in their native tongue. The organ player’s generosity with atmosphere and effects makes this a stand out in their already stellar catalog.

05 Os Mutantes - Ave Lucifer (Brazil 1970) Brazilian’s finest mastered the evil tune across their trio of first releases, as evidenced on this gem from their third LP. All of their albums and various solo efforts are well worth investigating.

06 Pookah - Rain on My Grave (US 1970) An outstanding moody number from an American trio that was lucky to have their sole album receive prime major label production courtesy of United Artists. Not much is known is of this mysterious band though they appear to have New York roots.
07 Druids of Stonehenge - Six Feet Down (US 1968) The Druids hailed from New York City and added the "of Stonehenge" to their name once moving to the west coast, eager to join the burgeoning psychedelic scene. Their lone 1968 LP for pop-psych label Uni has long been a sought after garage/psych gem. This Doors-esque number is heavy on the downer vibes and represents the headier side of the album.

08 Bermuda Jam - Good Trip Lollipop (US 1969) A freakishly twisted mind melter from an otherwise tame outfit, this is the lone standout from their mediocre LP. But what a stand out it is, with hellish sound effects and clanging chains as their backdrop, they manage to pull off a trippy eploito track that still spooks.

09 Fifty Foot Hose - Cauldron (US 1968) Not for the faint of heart, these genuinely experimental electronic wizards gave two shits about the pop charts, although a whiff of the Airplane can be heard on a few of their tunes. If a seance was committed to tape, it may sound like this. One of the finest bands to incorporate electronics into their sound, their LP for electronic label Limelight is solid all the way through.

Episode 004: Fourth Floor Elevators Oct 12, 2020

004 Fourth Floor Elevators: All Hallows' Eve Selections Part One
01 Larry's Rebels - Halloween (New Zealand 1968) Quite a success in their homeland, this quintet laid down many fine singles and an album during their brief four year span. This fun Halloween theme isn't quite spooky, but the earnest vocal and hilarious sound effects give it a bizarre appeal that could only come from the 60's.
02 The Rattles - The Witch (Germany 1969) This German band's career spans four decades beginning with the early 60's beat boom. Their psychedelic work is laced with hard rock as heard on this scorcher featuring sound effects that too sound like a hoot to make in the studio with a head full of hashish.
03 Griffin - I Am The Noise In Your Head (UK 69) One-off band that features members of Skip Bifferty and Bell + Arc plus future Yes drummer Alan White. This demented number is a perfect example of the pre-hard rock that many long haired bands would pursue before fully committing to the sound or seeking more progressive pastures.
04 Alice Cooper - Fields of Regret (US 1969) Before finding success with his brand of shock rock, Alice Cooper was a band led by Vincent Furnier who would later adopt their name as his government. This epic piece from their debut shows a band worshiping at the altar of Syd-era Pink Floyd while being freshly influenced by label boss Frank Zappa's twisted form of virtuoso rock.
05 The Doors - My Wild Love (US 1968) This "work song" styled dirge by the LA kings of doom laden psychedelia features no instruments from the band, as they grew tired of trying to make the music work and opted instead to clap, stomp and hum their way through the backing track. The result is one of their most haunting and unique songs.
06 Fever Tree - Death is the Dancer (US 1968) This Houston band's sound grew from their folk rock beginnings into an organ driven psychedelic stew that they cooked across four albums and numerous singles. This proto-prog number incorporates a bit of a Doors influence but beefs up the rhythm section a few decibels.
07 St. John Green - Goddess of Death (US 1968) Exploito psych at its finest produced by shady LA scenester Kim Fowley and West Pop Experimental Pop Art Band member/producer Michael Lloyd. Encouraged by Fowley to explore the "Canyon Sound" that he was pushing on bands at the time, these Pasadena based misfits produced one of the earliest forms of occult rock ever released.
08 Les Sauterelles - Heavenly Club (Switzerland 1968) A smash hit in their homeland, this Swiss band produced two albums and a few singles of beat and pop-psych before calling it quits in 1969. This Bee Gees inspired tune is a strange story of a man's near death experience that leaves him insane and features such a soaring chorus that the nonsensical lyrics are easily forgiven.
09 The Salt - Lucifer (US 1968) A funky pop ode to Beelzebub by an alias of bubblegum producer Joey Levine, who was also in Ohio Express and wrote their classic hit "Try It". This song proves that the most skilled pop songwriter can take the darkest of subject matter and produce an ear worm.
10 The Flying Machine - The Devil Has Possession of Your Mind (UK 1969) Though the title suggests possibly the darkest psych single ever recorded, we instead find another bubblegum tune that draws parallels between the man downstairs and a cheating lover. This band started life as Pinkerton's Assorted Colours and specialized in breezy UK harmony pop.
11 Childe Harold - Brink of Death (US 1968) Truly warped in every sense of the word, this cover of Bert Sommers' downer masterpiece features every production trick available at the time plus some. The band seems to be an alias project by electronic wizard Wendy Carlos.
All songs recorded from vinyl and curated by Elvin Estela.

Episode 003: A Trip Through Three Seas Sep 28, 2020

003 A Trip Through Three Seas: Selections from Eastern Europe and The Middle East

01 Breakout - Powiedzielismy Juz Wszystko (Poland 1969) Constantly at odds with their conservative government at the time, these Polish misfits rocked their hair longer than they should and still managed to have hits. This track from their debut album is one of many highlights and shows their unique take on the burgeoning "underground rock" sound.

02 Harout - Taparoum Enk (Armenia 1976) After moving to Los Angeles from Armenia in 1975, singer songwriter Harout Pamboukjian put together his band and debut album less than two months after arriving. This drum heavy number sounds like a lost breakbeat classic that could have fit right in with "The Mexican" or "Scorpio" in old an school DJ set. Harout is still active today and continues to release music.

03 The Cedars - Hide If You Want to Hide (1968 Lebanon) This Lebanese quartet successfully integrated native instrumentation into their sound, which can be heard on this bizarre ode to stalking that fits right in with the UK pop-psych of the era. Though only around for two years, they still managed to record a a string of consistently great singles.

04 Churchills - Subsequent Finale (Israel 1968) Famous in collector's circles for an album that will set you back several thousand dollars, this band's debut is one of the rare examples where the hype is justified. Churchills seamlessly incorporate every psychedelic production trick in the book while still honing a sound that is singular. They would eventually relocate to the UK in 1971 and change their name to Jericho Jones.

05 Illes - Approximacio (Hungary 1971) "The Beatles of Hungary" as they were tagged by the press, Illes were a prolific band that released some of the finest psychedelic music of the time. This tune finds them integrating sitar and percussion into a hazy swirl that sounds like it could have been from three years prior.

06 Axis - Living In (Greece 1970) From the Island of Greece comes a quartet of freaks with afros that could give the MC5 a run for their money. Axis specialized in hard edged pop with a penchant for epic changes and soaring vocals. By 1973 they would switch gears and embrace the prog rock wave for their third and final album.

07 Vangelis - (Greece 1972) Once part of Greek pop-psych/prog kings Aphordite's Child, Vangelis recorded many solo and collaboration albums in the 70's before finding success as a soundtrack composer in the 80's. This drumless masterpiece features the vocals of Robert Fitoussi.
08 Michael Urbaniak's Fusion - Fusion (Poland 1974) Michael Urbaniak and his wife, vocalist Ursula Dudziak, recorded some of the most funky yet progressive jazz fusion ever produced. As if an electronic violinist isn't strange enough in a jazz ensemble, Ursula's instrument was her voice ran through a delay pedal that usually featured intense wordless scatting. Nonetheless, with her husband's keen ear for balance, they managed to present a freak jazz sound that was like no other.
All songs recorded from vinyl and curated by Elvin Estela.

Episode 002: On Second Thought Sep 14, 2020

002 On Second Thought: Selections from the Post-Psychedelic Era

01 Love Sculpture - Why (UK 1969) While their debut LP kept true to their blues roots, the second LP by this early Dave Edmund’s project took on the sounds of the day. Interesting note, the production and songwriting team behind this album also produced underground pop-psych artist Elli.

02 The Gods - Groozy (UK 1969) Another sophomore album that features darker and more intricate arrangements than their first outing, this epic number hints at territory two members would soon explore with Uriah Heep.

03 Zen - Tiny Little Bee (Netherlands 69) This Dutch pop band had a minor European hit with their cover of “Hair” which shares the same album as this psych masterpiece that feels like the perfect combination of the year before and the year at hand.

04 Wigwam - Let the World Ramble On (Finland 1970) Their proper debut after a self released album is a great example of early prog rock and features stellar electronic experiments. This track offers a more soulful side to their technical sound.

05 Traffic - Cryin’ to be Heard (UK 68) If there’s a song and album that best represents the spirit of this episode, it’s this one. While their debut rode the pop-psych wave, it still hinted and a more improvisational direction which would be further explored on their second album. Safe to say that this LP may have influenced the direction that many bands went post 1968.

06 Manfred Mann - Snakeskin Garter (UK 69) After hitting the big time with a few mid 60’s pop hits and before finding even bigger success in the 70’s with the Earth Band, this UK band produced some of the most consistent albums through the late 60’s. This tune features a prominent rhythm section and a demented Dr. John-esque vocal.

07 Quatermass - Up on the Ground (UK 70) Organ led power trio that takes its cues from The Nice and combines it with the burgeoning hard rock and prog sounds.
All songs recorded from vinyl and curated by Elvin Estela.

Episode 001: In the First Place Aug 31, 2020

001 In the First Place - Selections from Late 60’s Soundtracks
01 The Remo Four - In the First Place (Wonderwall 1968 - UK) Mysteriously missing from the original soundtrack release, this George Harrison produced rarity is a perfect example of where psychedelic pop was at during this magical year.
02 The Byrds - Child of the Universe (Candy 1968 - US) The Byrds during one of their finest years in between "Notorious Byrd Bros" and "Sweetheart of the Rodeo". This version features a different mix than the one from their 1969 album “Dr. Byrds and Mr. Hyde".
03 The Electric Flag - Peter’s Trip (The Trip 1967 - US) Before recording their more well known releases for Columbia Records, this Chicago group scored the soundtrack to one of the premier LSD exploito flicks starring Peter Fonda.
04 Nirvana - The Touchables Theme (All of Us) (The Touchables 1968 - UK) A classic title track from a prolific UK pop-psych duo who have made many a fine example of the genre. This is the reprise mix that ends the original soundtrack.
05 Barbara Kelly & The Morning Good - Maria’s Theme (The Savage Seven 1968 - US) This mystery band makes their only appearance on this soundtrack, leading me to believe they may have been a one off studio outfit created specifically for this score.
06 Howard Blake - An Elephant Called Slowly (Reprise) (An Elephant Called Slowly 1970 - UK) British composer Howard Blake scored this 1969 film with a fittingly stomping soundtrack of instrumentals that are heavy on the drums and percussion.
07 Peter Cooke and Dudley Moore - Bedazzled (Bedazzled 1968 - UK) What can be said of this phased masterpiece by musical and comedic genius Dudley Moore? Perfection.
08 Jeff Simmons - Vegas Pickup (Naked Angels 1969 - US) Rugged instrumental by Jeff Simmons from an outlaw biker film soundtrack released on Frank Zappa's Straight Records. Simmons released his solo album "Lucille Has Messed Up My Mind" the same year.
09 John Simon - Drivin’ Daisy (Last Summer 1969 - US) This coming of age film from 1969 features a soundtrack composed by organist John Simon. This driving rocker - no pun intended - features the vocals of Cyrus Faryar who released two solo albums on Elektra in the early 70's.
10 Steve Miller Band - Superbyrd (Revolution 1968 - US) Filmed in San Francisco during the height of the flower power era, this documentary is soundtracked by heavies from the local scene including a young Steve Miller in a rare instrumental moment.
11 Andy Ellison - It’s Been a Long Time (Here We Go Round the Mulberry Bush 1968 - UK) Lead singer for freakbeat-psych misfits John's Children, Andy Ellison tames things down a touch for this psychedelic love ballad complete with a reference to an "icicle tricycle".
All songs recorded from vinyl and curated by Elvin Estela.

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