The Mandrake Memorial - 1968 (full album)

  • 9 years ago
Anyone who lived in Philadelphia in the late '60s would remember the Mandrake Memorial well. They opened for many of the star rock bands who passed through the city, and in terms of local popularity, they were probably only second to the Nazz. Outside of Philadelphia, they were scarcely known whatsoever, though they did manage to produce some fine second-division psychedelia. As vocalists they were adequate, but they were accomplished players and interesting writers, dressing their solid melodies with liberal jazz and Middle Eastern influences. Guitarist Craig Anderton became a noted music technology writer, contributing to magazines such as Electronic Musician.

The Mandrake Memorial
By far their best album, this suite-like collection features some haunting, first-rate songs, such as "Bird Journey," "Here I Am, " and "Dark Lady." With their harmonies and interplay between guitar, electric keyboards, and occasional sitar, they were very much a band of their age, but played with a drive and precision that anticipated progressive rock.

Credits
Drums, Timpani – J. Kevin Lally
Guitar, Sitar – Craig Anderton
Keyboards, Vocals – Michael Kac
Vocals, Bass – Randy Monaco

http://www.allmusic.com/artist/mandrake-memorial-mn0000671886

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