Also known as: Moonrakers, The
Origin: Denver, CO, USA
This relatively obscure Denver band evolved out of the the Surfin' Classics in early 1964 when guitarist and frontman Doug Dolph was replaced with Denny Flannigan (vocals, keyboards, guitar) as they began moving away from the surf sound in favor of a harder, R&B groove inspired by The Beatles and the British Invasion. Other original members included Veeder Van Dorn (rhythm guitar, banjo, harmonica, vocals), Bob Webber (lead guitar), Joel Brandes (bass) and Bob MacVittie (drums). The name change came about when it was decided they needed a more "with-it" moniker after the group was matched up w…