PsychepediA

From: Santa Ana, CA, USA

This Santa Ana band, originally called the Blues Express, formed in late 1966, gigged mostly around the L.A. area and in 1968, released two singles on the Verve label. Members included John "Catfish" Knight (vocals, harmonica), Charlie Malyszka aka Chaz Maley (lead guitar), John Jefferies (rhythm guitar) and brothers Greg (bass) and Gary Embrey (drums).

The fuzzy, manic punk-psych gem 'Deathwise' graces the B-side of their first 45 and is credited to Knight, but in actuality was a band collaboration. Both songs on this record were produced by Angelo DiFrenzo who also managed the group. After the release of their first single, Joe Conti (keyboards) joined the ensemble for their second 45 ('See Saw' b/w 'Web Of Trouble'). Unfortunately neither record sold that well, which prompted them to call it quits in early 1969.

Artist information sources include: The book, 'Fuzz, Acid, and Flowers Revisited' by Vernon Joynson. A special thanks also goes out to Charlie Malyszka for the band photo and his important contribution to this article.