Gene Clark was ever restless, the constant traveler, from his sudden departure after a stirring two-year tenure with the Byrds into solo career that careened from one style to another, to his untimely alcohol-fueled end at just 46.

On this particular island, there will be sun and sand — but nary an original artist. Join us, as we query our intrepid panel on its must-have cover songs for their fateful journey.

Drummer Joel Larson, a founding member of the Grass Roots, isn’t part of the group’s current line up — but he was on board for their most memorable accomplishments

Progressive music simply dominated the Top 10 for May 2012, as readers celebrated new music (and interviews!) from Squackett, UK, Asia and Spectrum Road.

May 24, 2012 marks the 21st anniversary of the passing of Byrds cofounder Gene Clark, whose early death couldn’t overshadow a remarkable stint as the band’s principal songwriter in the mid-1960s.