For a spell there, the Chocolate Watch Band was remembered more for their loony name than their music. Although they were a popular live act in and around their stomping grounds of San Jose, California, their records stiffed, naturally limiting their profile. By the time the 70’s arrived, the ChocolateRead More

The first time I heard “Magic,” I thought it was the latest single by the Hollies. Blooming blissfully with bigger than life harmonies uncannily similar to those exercised by Allan Clarke, Graham Nash and Tony Hicks, the spellbinding song reached the No. 5 spot on the American charts in theRead More

The country rock field is a crowded one these days, but it takes a special talent to synthesize the genres in an accessible manner. And I’m pleased to announce that Dan Kibler possesses such a skill. Striking a perfect balance between the two styles, he slaps a refreshing spin onRead More

Considering how adored the Squires are by garage rock aficionados, it’s surprising this sole collection of the Bristol, Connecticut band’s work is only available on vinyl. And what’s even more frustrating is Going All The Way With The Squires! (Crypt Records) is long out of print. But that shouldn’t stopRead More

The sad and early death of Gene Clark couldn’t overshadow a remarkable stint as the Byrds’ principal songwriter in the mid-1960s.

Under different circumstances, there is no doubt Homer would have been major players in the hard-rock league. The San Antonio, Texas band’s lead guitarist, Galen Niles, informs us in the liner notes to this comprehensive collection of works that limited distribution of their discs was the prime reason they wereRead More

Bartlesville, Oklahoma was where the Skeptics came from. Although the band failed to pierce the national charts, they ruled the regional circuit, and in light of The Complete Early Years, 1965-69 (Gear Fab Records), it’s not difficult to hear why. Featuring all five of the group’s singles, along with aRead More

Not at all associated with the contemporary Australian band of the same name, these fellows came from London, England and got together in 1974. Toting impressive pedigrees, the group included lead singer Andy Ellison and drummer Chris Townson, who both played with John’s Children, which also featured Marc Bolan. TheRead More

A soothing instrumental opens the door to As Seen On TV, but what a tease that is. Such mellow sounds suddenly launch into a torrent of crunchy guitars and churning hooks, which pretty much sets the pace for the remainder of the tracks here on the latest and greatest albumRead More

Born Benjamin Franklin Van Dervort, J.D. Blackfoot had been around the block quite a few miles by the time The Ultimate Prophecy materialized in 1970. Prior to investing his energy into music, the Ohio native worked as a driver, pest controller and insurance salesman. He eventually joined a local band,Read More