Texas Band Trivia 1 - Mikes Band Archive

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THE 12 AM - need info.. anyone know anything bout this band???

47 TIMES IT'S OWN WEIGHT -(Contributed by John Fonte) JF writes: (jazz)-lp was Cumulo Nimbus

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ABBADON - BAND MEMBERS: David Spurgeon - guitar,voc / Link Summers - guitar. (Contributed by Robin Overall) Robin writes: "The original band consisted of Darrel Roberts-lead vocal / John Quilian-drums / David Spurgeon-guitar / Rene Guerero-bass / and David Barrett-keyboards. Later on, Rene's brother Omar Guerero took over drum duties. The music was mostly original with a few obscure covers thrown in."

ABNER BURNET AND THE BURNOUTS - (Contributed by David Sumners) DS writes: "1970-1975. I spent some time on the River Walk playing at Casey’s B-B-Q with Abner Burnet and the Burnouts. That band recorded an album at the old ZAZ Studios with Abner on vocal and guitar, Joe Kerr on keyboards, Paul Burnet on lead guitar, Cindy Gephardt on drums ( Chris Gephardt of Flash, little sister)and myself on bass. I spent many hour at what we called the old “ Brewery” which is now an art museum downtown , listening to Ralph Straub go maniac on his hot rodded Hammond organ. I also toured a lot with Greg Forest,singer /song writer and the fore runner of the Texas Tune Stranglers both here in the Texas Hill Country and Northern California. Greg still plays to this day out of Kerrville with bassist Ronnie Leatherman of the 13th Floor Elevators and a member of the Texas Music Hall of Fame."

ACE PANCAKES - (Contributed by LIZ) liz writes: "A band that I did not see mentioned on your website was a group called Ace Pancakes. They did a lot of Little Feat (ie. Dixie Chicken, etc.). I saw them in the late 70s at the Village Inn and Cooter Brown's."

ACQUIESCENCE - (Contributed by Steve Denney) SD writes: "('80-81) Steve Denney (guitar / vocals), John Hagerty (keys / vocals), Joe Konnyu (bass / vocals), Jim Eiland (drums / vocals). "Progressive" rock band, mixing originals with mostly obscure covers (Bubble Puppy, Ten Years After). Recorded some tunes at B.O.S.S. (Bobby O'Neill Sound Studio), which used to be next to Good Time Charlie's on Blanco Rd. Joe left and was replaced by Ron McKenzie, then Jim left, and the band morphed into Marauder."

JOE AERO AND BLACKJACK - (Contributed by Mike Workman) MW writes: "May87-Aug87: Joe Aero & Blackjack featured Joe Arredondo on bass. Bobby Flores was on guitar, Phil Dalmolin on drums. I joined the band on the road through South Texas. May88-Aug88: Joe Aero & Blackjack again, this time Bobby Flores quit about June and Renee took over on guitar. Phil was still with the band."

AFRICA - (Contibuted by Chuck Balcar) CB writes: "Frankie Collins joined a band called Africa that I was in right after he got out of prison (Mike Clancy, Bobby Darilek on drums and Rick Garcia on bass. He then fronted Watermelon band with Gary E and Ricky Z. and which at times included David Dobbs and Danny Cowan and later Jimmy Spacek all on lead guitar. He is now "Frankie Hollywood" and plays harmonica blues on the east side of San Antonio."

ALEXIUS - (Contributed by Mike Taylor) MT writes: "It was a rock band I played bass for, based out of Churchill High School. We were a Sam Kinsey band, & played our share of gigs, at the Teen Canteen, in addition to numerous parties and clubs. We formed in late 1976, and played up until around mid 1978. The groups was made up of Rick Nelson - lead guitar,(dad was a football coach at Trinity Univ.), Bill "Butch" Morriss - guitar and his brother David - drums (family owned Arrow Glass Co.), Roe "Sam" Haney - lead vocals, and myself - bass. I have not heard from any of them, since about 1980 and have no idea, if any of them are still involved in music. Reading your column, brought back some great memories....seems like a lifetime ago."

ALICE AND WONDERLAND - (Contributed by Dave Holloway) DH writes: "A rock opera written by Wink Kelso and Richard Rosen. The band itself was composed of Phil Arroyo and Mike Sunjka - guitarists, Ricky Hernandez -keyboard, Mike Taylor -bass, TC Buckman -drums. Terrific show, I still listen to a tape made close to the end of the shows run." (Contributed by Deana Drake) DD writes: "Hi, Mike. On your band trivia page, Wink Kelso's and Richard Rosen's "Alice *and* Wonderland" is listed as "Alice *in* Wonderland (in error). Thought I might let you know. " (Contributed by Phil Arroyo) PA writes: "In the late 80's I was recruited by Wink Kelso for his rock opera called "Alice & Wonderland". It was rejuvenated specifically to raise funds for a local church that was going through some hard times. The ensemble was a who's-who list unlike anything I had ever been a part of up to that time. The cast consisted of singers who like me had been recruited especially for the project. People like Paula Thompson, Angie Reed-Moore, Mike Kropp, Gary Freidrich, John David Martinez, Tommy Stephens, some people from the local cabaret, Ricky Hernandez, Suzy Jenkins, Pat Wellburg, David McDavid etc,etc...about 15 or so in all. Well, the show went over so well, we were asked to perform on Sundays at the Josephine Street Diner which we did for about 3 months and finally took the show to Austin where we ran Friday's & Sat's each week for another 3 months before closing. While there, we were put up at the what was then, the new Radison Hotel. The cast had the entire top floor and I gotta tell you, It was like being a rock star. We were famous there. Everyone knew us from the show & treated us like kings. The after show parties were classics as well. You know, iced down bathtubs filled with everything. It was amazing!" (Contributed by Rachel Beissner) RB writes: "This Show has been produced a few times since its original run. Here's yet another update. Firelight Theater recently merged with The Magik Children's Theatre which will now operate under the name of "The Magik Theater". This will allow them to continue productions of children's Theatre but also open up opportunities to stage adult theater using the historic Beethoven Hall Theatre located on the Hemisfair grounds on South Alamo. This last spring, Firelight with Richard Rosen directing and John Minton producing, brought back the production of "Alice: A Rock Opera" for the older audience. Running concurrently was the children's show, "Alice In Wonderland". Having been a groupie of the original 1973 production, I can attest that the entertainment & music held up wonderfully over the past 30 years. Firelight had to hire two young singers outside of their own troupe to fill a couple of rolls. In the lead as "Alice" was belter, 14 year old Hannah Cochran. The other "outsider" was my daughter, local singer/songwriter, Ashlee Rose, then 13 years old. Both Hannah & Ashlee Rose are now Freshman attending NESA which is San Antonio's magnet school for the arts. The two shows played a total of about 50 shows over Feb & Mar 2003 and I never ever tired of it. I would snap up a CD of this music if it were ever made available. Until then, I guard with my life the cassette tapes I have." ML adds: Check out the artwork poster HERE.

ALLEGED - (Contributed by Ray Wilburn) RW writes: "2003 I was with the group "Alleged" here in San Antonio which consists of Randy Toman jr. guitar/vocals, Art Carrejo bass ,and Chris Lopez vocals but i've since left to start an as yet un-titled band."

AMARETTO - (Contributed by Skip Mascorro) SM writes: "Amaretto was my next band involvement, an interesting "cross country" style turn for me. The line up included the affable John Michael Ramirez ( Caldwell Music & River City Music). Is there a musician anywhere in the San Antonio area that can't call him "friend". John, Peter Carey, a drummer named Paul and then later young Billy Carey, and a sweet and fun front lady named Beth Williams made up Amaretto. I was overjoyed to have my alarm go off ten years later in El Paso one morning and hear Beth getting air play on a local country station. I understand Beth has become quite a Texas songwriting diva and resides someplace in the Hill Country." (Contributed by David Sumners) DS writes: "Amaretto 1976. Beth Williams was the featured vocalist. Often playing without drums, this combo had different players from John Michael Ramirez and Greg Forest on guitar, myself on bass (and others I’m sure ) and sometimes a drummer. The details are a bit hazy on this one. Mostly gigged at the Town Crier."

AMERICAN PEDDLERS - BAND MEMBERS: Glenn Smith - guitar,voc / Aaron Barker - bass,voc / Joe Tora - keys,voc / Greg Hall (also various drummers) - drums,voc. ML writes: Be sure to visit Aarons website at: http://www.aaronbarker.com (Contributed by Bob Gentry) Bob writes: "I'm sure you met some of the guys in the American Peddlers. Are you aware of what happened to Aaron Barker, the bassist and lead vocalist? He has made the move to Nashville, gone country, and written songs like "Love Without End, Amen" for George Strait. Don't know where any of the others went to though...." ML adds: Last I heard....Joe Tora moved back to the northeast, New York I think. Glenn Smith works around Texas as a concert promoter under the name 'Glenn Smith Presents' (I think that's the name!). Greg Hall went back with his former band mates The Smith Brothers. And we know what Aaron is up to......." (Contributed by Kevin Cook) KC writes: "I was surfing the web and came across your site. I was glad to see The American Peddlers mentioned. After Joe Torra left the band, I was enlisted to fill in for him for about a year before the band disbanded. I made the connection from playing with The Boyd Brothers of Bandera and Bill Butler of Hondo. I was was fortunate to play with the band on the road right after Aaron had "Baby Blue" recorded by George Strait and with Glen Smith's booking ability, we were able to play many big shows around the country including opening for Alabama in front of 10,000 in Richmond, VA. While I played with the band, we had Gerald Boyd on guitar and after he left for Nashville, Bill Caisse. After The Peddlers disbanded, I played with Bill several months on The Chelsea Street Pub circuit. I have since lost contact with all the players except an occasional note from Aaron. I went back to college and received my Bachelors degree and now teach for the state of Texas. The band I play with now (3rd Degree) is made of musicians retired from the road playing for fun and a little money on weekends. Although I still play with 3rd Degree, I am concentrating on my recording studio and start-up independent record label. http://coyotedream.com ." (Contributed by Martini) M writes: "Glenn Smith (once an American Peddler) is one of the largest band promoters in Southern United States. He books top of the line performers in the country and rock genres from Garth Brooks to Brittany Spears. He also books classic bands out for their comeback tours like Styx, Foreigner, Heart, etc... He and his wife Linda have built a huge promotion company, but still base out of San Antonio." (Contributed by Willie) W writes: "The American Peddlers used to play out at Fort Hood and my little group of friends would go to see them every time they were here. We even traveled to San Antonio Lackland Airforce base to see them put on a show at the outside pavilion. We knew the original members very well and we were all friends with them for so long, I even named my son after two members in the original band. I would say they had a major impact on my life. We lost track of them for years and one day i was sitting at home watchin CMT and there was this man singin solo, with a flag imposed in the background, i was mesmerized, kept staring at him and listening and saying to myself 'i know this man'. At the end, i saw his name and about fell off the couch!!! It was Aaron. I miss them so much and am glad that I did a search for American Peddlers and came across your website. Thank you so much for having this on here." (Contributed by Bill Caisse) BC writes: "I was the guitarist in not only the Alice rock opera, but the guitarist for the American Peddlers from 1984 -1988, and then also for Aaron Barker as a solo artist through 1993. Currently living back in Texas, after three years in Nashville. Happily working at Apple Computer, and playing guitar for The Klocks." (Contributed by Scott Gerard) SG writes: "I have alot of great memories playing drums for the "American Peddlers" and the times we were out on the road. The lineup at that time was Aaron Barker (Lead Vocals, Bass), Glen Smith (Guitar, Vocals), Joe Torra (Keyboards, Vocals) and myself. Our sound man was Lee Mack and he did a fantastic job for us at that time. The Peddlers always seemed to pack a house wherever they played. From what I know, Glen Smith is a well known promoter (Garth Brooks, Goo Goo Dolls, to name a few) and was nominated for promoter of the year at the CMA awards last year. He currently resides in Bulverde and I see him around town every once in a while. Aaron Barker has definitely left his mark as one of the finest songwriters of our time and currently lives in Nashville. Joe Torra currently lives in Pittsfield, Massachusetts and owns a clothing store called "Diedra's Great Clothing" (named after his wife). Bill Caisse replaced Glen Smith (due to Glen pursued his promoting business full-time), however the band never seemed to be able to do much after that. The band went bankrupt shortly after that and the Peddlers soon disappeared but the memories live on. I still live in San Antonio and I plan on continuing my musical endeavors until I can't anymore. It's great to see some of the old Peddler fans when I play gigs around town." (Contributed by Steve Wisnoski) SW adds: "I also was a member of American peddlers close to the end after Bill Caisse." (Contributed by Bubba Henze) BH writes: "I worked for them as a lighting director for about a year in '82. Glenn and Joe already had the promotions thing going and a production company called South Texas Sound and Lights. When we weren't working Peddlers gigs, they would book the crew and gear on regional shows like Dr. Hook or Reba McIntire. My most memorial experience was the Airman's Club on Lackland AFB in '82. Aaron had finished writing and recording Survive, which was basically all about the whole Air Force recruitment and training experience (the Peddlers had been playing airman's clubs for many years). One song was called Lackland Laser. It referred to the flashlights with the orange cones the airman were had to carry on their walk to the club. That night when the band played it for the first time, to a packed house of maybe 800 "pingers", the whole crowd turned on their flashlights and swept them in unison to the music. It was unbelievable! Joe called me on the intercom from the stage and told me to kill the stage lights. The Air Force had it's own light show going on that night!" (Contributed by James Nichols) JN writes: "I enjoyed reading about this group's history and as I was a part of it, I thought that I would add to the story. The American Peddlers were formed in 1970 with three servicemen ( Jim Nichols, Ken Joiner and Monk Porter) and one civilian (Randy Mason). They started playing on the bases as well as the Pendulm, Timber Wolf, and several other local clubs. In late 1970, most of the members were either transferred or moved with the exception of bassist Jim Nichols. He recruited Jim Morrison (no, not THE Jim Morrison,) Ronnie Black and Joe Torra and kept the band alive. This group played all the military bases in the San Antonio area as well as Laredo, etc. Jim left the group in mid 1971 when he was transferred to Japan, and formed the Country Peddlers and performed there for four years. He then returned to the states, became a civilian and moved back to Ohio. He currently lives in South Carolina and is still playing and writing with his group, Dystansy. Thanks."

AMYR - (Contributed by Steve Denney) SD writes: " ('78-80) Steve Denney (guitar), Mark Stone (keys), Henry Carrera (bass), John Carrera (guitar), Andy Toth (drums). A jazz / fusion band I put together while still in high school (Roosevelt) at the age of 17. Heavily influenced by Weather Report, Pat Metheny, AlDiMeola, etc etc. We did all original tunes, and recorded at Dune Recorders off of Bitters Rd. Turned down by every major record label in the U.S. - I still have the stack of rejection letters, and thought about including copies in our promo package under the heading "Critics Rave!" Played at a Sunken Gardens Battle of the Bands in 1980 (and probably baffled most of the crowd). Broke up shortly thereafter; there was just no market and nowhere to really play for this kind of music at the time. Henry, John, and Andy went on to play in a band called Manic Shuffle."

ANGEL - ( Contributed by Phil Moran a.k.a. OKIE D ) BAND MEMBERS: Danny Cowan - guitar / Phil Moran - voc,harp / Ricky Wells - bass,voc / Brent Hoy - drums. Phil writes: "A really great group, hot, heavy, and tight..... Supertight! (Real good equipment too!). This band formed 3-4 months after the breakup of Aransas with the core members reforming as Angel. This is the band I quit to join...(you guessed it)...OVERLOAD. My only regret was that Danny, Ricky, & Brent were really pissed at me for leaving when things were going real good. Sorry!"

ANGEL FIRE - (Contributed by Bobby Flores) BF writes: "I don't know if I mentioned my last band to you, Angel Fire. We played the "A" circuit in Texas from '88 through '96 and worked mostly in the Dallas area. Played Borrowed Money (Dallas) and Crystal Chandelier clubs (Lancaster), the Texas Star in Denton and the Santa Fe Junction in San Angelo. I was joined by my brother Greg Flores and sister Sandra Flores and we did mostly top-40 country and dance rock too. We came very close to two different major label deals, with Warner and M.C.A. Our band had two or three different drummers and bass players, etc. Here's a list of who performed with us: Drums: Phil Dalmolin, Tad Parker, Brian Pfeffer Bass: Jim Kalson, Joe Cooper, Alan Chapman Keyboards: Scott Honsberger, Rick Ramirez Steel: Chuck Back, Jerry Blanton, Randy Reinhard Acoustic guitar: Greg Flores, Dale Sandling I played guitar, fiddle & steel."

JOE ANTHONY - (Contributed by Steve Denney) SD writes: "OK, so he wasn't a musician, but this guy supported local bands like few other DJ's. KISS-FM / KMAC-AM was one of those great "underground free-form" stations that are waxed about nostalgically today. Joe, the "Godfather of Rock & Roll", had station manager Lou Roney's blessing to pretty much program whatever he wanted. I discovered so many bands listening to his shows - UFO, Garfield, Billy Thorpe, Chris deBurgh, Scorpions, Al Stewart, Judas Priest, Triumph - jeez, this guy was all over the map. They had a "KISS Homegrown Hour" that used to feature recordings by local bands (they even once played a cassette demo that my jazz-fusion band, Amyr, had recorded). I recently had the pleasure of meeting ex-Triumph guitarist Rik Emmett at an outdoor festival in Massachusetts that both our bands were playing at. When I told Rik I was from San Antonio originally, he remembered Joe and Lou right away, as they were responsible for breaking Triumph in the U.S. Rest in peace, Godfather!"

APOCALYPSE - (Contributed by Bobby Flores) BF writes: "I wondered if you'd ever heard of a dance-rock-top 40 band back in the 70's called Apocalypse? I did a gig with them and George Chambers together once, both bands at some big function in SA. They were a really tight band and sounded great. I remember the guitarist was a guy named George Morin or Marine? Great player." (Contributed by Vel Espinoza) VE writes: "Apocalypse used to play in San Antonio and Houston. Your write up on the band mentions a guitar player named George Morin. George Morin is a San Antonio jazz trumpet player (see Momentus). GM never played guitar so maybe it was another George that played with Apocalypse. Momentus used to play clubs in the east side of San Antonio (like Little Hut). They played NCO Clubs, too. I saw them play in Fort Worth once (circa 1975)."

ARANSAS - ( Contributed by Phil Moran a.k.a. OKIE D ) BAND MEMBERS: Danny Cowan- guitar / Matt Keating - bass / Brent Hoy - drums / Dave Braden - vocals (later replaced by Phil Moran - voc,harp), Paul Kandera - guitar,voc (joined later lineup). Phil writes: "Damn, we were good. This was my "Dream Band" until Paul Kandera left. We didn't make enough money, and Paul had to go to work installing sprinkler systems. I got tired of duking it out with other members and I also left after a while." Core members would reform as Angel (see listing).

ARCHIE BELL AND THE DRELLS

ARGYLES - ( Contributed by Chris Holzhaus ) BAND MEMBERS: Steve Perron - guitar,voc / Luis Cabaza - keys / Ben Trieber - bass / Steve Andersen - drums / Chris Holzhaus - guitar,voc. Chris writes: "A weird mixture of Keystone, MacArthur, Jefferson, Cole and Alamo Heights grads...played t.a.g. ( teenage activity group) at Ft. Sam Houston as well as the TEEN CANTEEN in wonderland and THE DUMP on Austin hwy. ...they landed one Texas area hit produced by the world famous record producer Huey P. Meaux (Sir Douglas Quintet, BJ Thomas) the label was Crazy Cajun/Pic-One >A.side was " White Lightnin' " B.side was "Farmer John" (I'm in love with your daughter). The band later became" CHILDREN "and moved to LA in 67. Luis Cabaza recently returned to San Antonio from playing many years with Natalie Cole and the Gap Band (I dropped a bomb on you) and to marry his current wife Brenda (his High School sweetheart). Steve Perron and Ben Trieber both passed away accidentally within 3 years apart. Steve Andersen lives somewhere in San Antonio ...and you know where Chris is!" (Contributed by 60sMan) 6man writes: "Ben Treiber died in about 1969 (about 3 years before Stevie Perron), Benny was a bass player for the Argyles. The Argyles formed the Minds Eye club mentioned in your website - yes it was across from Terrell Plaza on Austin Highway.Next door, there used to be a 50s type of drive called the Big Orange named after an orange drink they served with burgers etc. They had a canopy for parking and the very end was informally reserved for a group of hoodlums called the Big Orange Boys. The Big Orange boys latter shot Benny Trieber in the leg over a bad dope deal. The Argyles formed in 1965 and the Minds Eye opened in 1966."

ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL - ML writes: "One of the all time greats to come out of Texas. Kings of the Texas Swing sound."

AUGIE MEYERS - Augie is a fixture around the SA area. For a period of about 15 yrs after his chart topping hey day with the Sir Douglas Quintet, Augie fronted his own band around the area featuring a revolving door of local musicians. It was not unusual to run into him at the music store or at the grocery store during this period. I never took the opportunity to talk with him as I found his age and large size to be rather intimating. What would I have in common to talk with him about? Around the mid-eighties, Augie re-teamed with Doug Sahm and formed the TEXAS TORNADOES. They revived their careers and became stars again. They are currently big in the Tejas market and Europe and have held steady for 15 yrs now. ML writes: Visit Clay Meyers website for photos of Augie and others: http://www.claymeyers.com/claymeyers.htm / (Contributed by Kurt Otto) KO writes: "I talked to this old guy at Hermes. I was buying a guitar strap. He asked do you play guitar? I said yes. Rhythm or lead? Mostly rhythm. He saw my casbeers shirt and he asked if augie meyers ever played there. I said sure, I said I was an augie disciple then he said he used to have a TV show in the 50's called Children's Theater, his name was Johnny Lane.He said how these 14 year old kids named augie meyers and doug sahm used to come to his show. Also, he mentioned another 14 year old kid named denny mathis. My jaw dropped. I couldn't believe my luck to get in a conversation with him. Claude says he remembers the show, it was before my time I'm afraid."

AUTOMATIC - ML writes: This band was basically a renamed version of the great SA band SEABREEZE. This name change took place about a year prior to the band moving to the Houston area where they renamed themselves EAZE and made a few minor member changes. See the SEABREEZE listing for more info.

THE AVENGERS Styled after the Ventures.

AZRAEL - (Contributed by Robert Fields) RF writes: "I came across your page while in the hunt for some info on "TheWellSouls". Anyway I saw the band listings page and freaked at some of the clubs and bands that I remember going to/ seeing way back when. I myself was in a band called "Azrael". The first version started in 89' with Joe Hudson on vocals, Rene Medellin on drums, Joe Villalobos on guitar, and myself: Robert Fields on bass. We did originals in the "progressive metal" style and even managed a few covers from Journey, Loudness and Ozzy. The second form of the band went from 91' to 93' with David Hamm on vocals, Carlos Martinez on guitar, Brian Taylor on drums and again myself on bass. The band came to an end due to the death of David. He was only 23 and died while sleeping due to carbon monoxide poisoning. I remember playing places like Wacky's, Tacoland, Eddie's, Crystal Palace (I think it was off of Military?), some club off of N.Main across from SAC & right next to Hogwild; can't remember the name. Oh, then there was Pazute's and the infamous Sneakers. Anyway, since then I've played in country bands, tejano bands, oldies bands, and currently I'm playing with Paris By Night (original rock) and DesDemona (with ex-Violet Trip singer Erica). Thanks for keeping up a page like this....very cool."

AZURITE - (Contributed by Bubba Henze) BH writes: "Steve Hines (lead guitar), Bubba Henze (rhythm guitar), Phillip Hines (bass) and Johnny Rodrigues (drums). Hard rock cover band. I was asked to join the band just before graduation in '75 from TR Roosevelt. The other members had been gigging in the Universal City area under the name Dead Rat. We changed the name to play the Teen Canteen and soon doing the same gigs as Heyoka, Razz and other local groups. Played several times at Charlie's Quarter Place and another pool joint named Bookers. After a year or so I began doing sound and lighting work for clubs and other bands. It's led to a career in stage lighting."

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BADFINGER - ML writes: My band RENEGADE had the chance to do the warm up slot for this band at a large club off West Ave in SA around 1983. Badfinger had long since faded in glory but they sounded great as ever doing all the famous hits. The original bass player was now on lead guitar and the only member of the original group from the 60's. They pulled in a large crowd and it was generally a great night for everybody. Both bands shared a large dressing room backstage and the guys held us in awe with their stories of how they use to hang out with the Beatles and the wild times they had in their heyday. Nice bunch of fellows." (Contributed by Steve Denney) SD writes: "I also remember the show you mentioned that Renegade played at The Rock Saloon, opening for Badfinger. I was there. I seem to recall that the tickets said that Shawn Sahm’s band Prezence was going to open, but for whatever reason they weren’t there, and Renegade opened instead. You guys sounded good and did a great job warming up the crowd that day! It pains me to tell you that I am about 99% sure that the guy who claimed to be in the original Badfinger was probably talking through his hat. The real original bass player was a guy named Tom Evans (who hanged himself in ’83). I saw Tom in ’79 (at the Armadillo!) and he was definitely not on the stage at that show in S.A. Around the time of this show (July ’82), the remaining original Badfinger members were bitterly infighting, and there were several bands called Badfinger on the road at this time. Some of them with NO original members. I remember being so disappointed because I had really been looking forward to that show. The bizarre thing is that the band that played had really done their homework, and actually sounded pretty good. They were the best Badfinger cover band I probably ever heard!" ML adds: "In all honesty.. I can't say that what Steve Denney says is not true. I just don't know. I was there in the warmup band but it was such a busy confused day and I was not a Badfinger historian at the time... I am just not sure who It was that I was talking to backstage from Badfinger. I certainly was not going to insult the Badfinger guys by asking 'who are you again?'. It's sad for me if it was all a bogus band after all this time. At any rate, it was still a thrill for me to have been a member of the warmup band that night for whatever Badfinger lineup it was. Maybe more folks can shed some light on this."

BAD NEWZ - (Contributed by Debra Fiedler) DF writes: "Preston and John Bracy fronted this band... we use to practice next door to them and we did a gig with them at Sheps."

JULIE BAILEY AND THE TEXAS GEMS - (Contributed by Mike Workman) MW writes: "Aug84-Sep85: I played in various bands: Most consistent with Julie Bailey & the Texas Gems [Brett Lowey, J.R on bass, Will on drums], Frank Chamberlain & Black Mountain."

BAKER STREET CASE - (Contributed by David McDonald) DM writes: "Baker Street Case was a band that played the canteen 67-68. My memory of them was that they had new Kustom amps and a new double tom Ludwig drum set."

THE BATHTUB RING - (Contributed by Ralph Fritz) RA writes: "The Bathtub Ring consisted for most of its existence of Richard Tondre and Ralph Fritz. Other members over many years, included Grant Heller, Pat Hughes, David Kersh and several others. Tom Kinsey was recorder and sound man. We played many clubs included Mike's site as well as Kelly's Pub on the River, Artist Colony Club in Hemisfair Park, etc. (in)Famous for Alexis from Texas, etc. we were basically a Kingston Trio sound-alike. Contact can be made at bathtubring.com."

BARRIER - (Contributed by Jody Moore) JM writes: "My first band, Barrier, (Rusty Howard, Larry Howe, Brian Pogue, me and David Montgomery). We opened regularly for Heyoka at Charlie's Quarter Place in Universal City and at Crazy Darryl's on Fred' Rd. Our name was
unique in that it was in honor of our roadie, my best friend, Jack Barrier (now a big-time jet-setting executive with Oracle)."

BEEFEATERS - (Contributed by Jimmie Randall) JR writes: "I played bass with the Beefeaters (I still cringe at that name!) in '68 and '69. We played at the Pusi-Kat almost all summer in '68 during Hemisphere. What a grand time! I was nineteen and out on my own for the first time. Wild in the streets! We also played Teen Canteen and Love Street (Whatever happened to Brandi?) Later, I played with Gary Myrick from Dallas and we played the Jam Factory a few times opening for Leon Russell. Even later, I moved to L.A. and joined Jo Gunne. We played Sunken Gardens in '74. I wonder if any one has any pictures. I am getting quite nostalgic these days. I have such great memories of my time in San Antonio."

BEARDED FORTUNE COOKIE - BAND MEMBERS: Danny Cowan - guitar / ? / ? /? /

BEES MAKE HONEY - BAND MEMBERS: Jay Hoyer (the queen bee) -voc / Keith Owens - guitar / Steve Owens (honey luscious) - guitar / Marius (Bubba) Perron - bass,voc / Laurent Perron - drums,voc.

BEHEMOTH - (Contributed by Freddy Carrillo) FC writes: "Behemoth was the house band at B'Wana Dik's on the river walk back in the early 70s. Their drummer for a good time was Leonard Wong, former leader of the band "Timepiece"."

BEPKO, FLETCHER & ROSE / BEPKO, SANTOS & ROSE (See Photos HERE) - (Contributed by Bill Lieber) Bill writes: "Ronny Rose, Phil Bepko and Roger Santos still play here and I have the pleasure of sitting in with both bands. Still there is some of the old clan. And, we're still kick'in. Every time I see them play I get all chocked up." ML writes: Be sure to check out the gallery. I have a pic of BFR taken awhile back before Roger joined. Those guys are real vets of the SA scene going back to numerous bands and lineups in the past. They are still great. (Contributed by Steve Denney) SD writes: "They used to play every weekend at Gallagher's Steakhouse off I-10 and Wurzbach. It was a small, fun, pub-type room and they always had a good crowd. I would go by whenever I wasn't working and they always let me sit in. A great bunch of guys; very versatile musically, always professional to a T, and nice people to boot."

BERG'S MILL SYMPHONY - about 1980. no info yet.

BITTERSWEET - ML writes: Here was a band that I remember catching at The Canteen on many an evening around 71'-72'. It was a four piece with 2guitars, bass and drums. I remember that 2 of the guys were brothers, Rick and Ron Plumley on bass and drums. They did pretty descent versions of typical FM radio hits of the day. All in all respectable group of players. They all seemed to be nice guys as well. They had the typical look of a hard rock act at the time. I came to hear from Tommy Taylor that this lineup was actually an ill mis- named act. It turns out that a former band from several years earlier (69'-70') featuring Tommy and other name players had made a real name for themselves in the area as Bittersweet. This new lineup caused somewhat of a stir because they adopted the same name even though it was a totally different outfit. I hear the problem was resolved when this new lineup renamed themselves "Springfield West".

BLACKJACK - (Contributed by Ernest Cruz) EC writes: Blackjack, who hailed from the Southeast side of town, used to rock my socks off. "The band was fronted by a cool and soulful singer named Keith ?, Mike Mullins on bass, Alonso Avila on lead guitar, Daniel Silva on lead & rhythm guitar and Bob Gonzales on drums. This band played stuff like Trapeze, Deep Purple, Bad Company and Queen. They also won a Battle of The Bands competition at the Sunken Gardens Theater. I don't recall what broke them up but after there break-up Keith left for New York City, Bob pursued an all original band called Metalis, I don't know where Daniel went but Mike and Alonso put another project together recruiting Ralph Pacheco on second guitar, Manuel Castillo on lead vocals and Mark ? on drums and became Rampant."

BLACK ROSE - See Photo HERE BAND MEMBERS: Scott Byers - guitar,voc / John David Martinez - congas, voc / Roger Santos - bass, voc / Mike Workman - keys, voc / Mike Kennedy - drums. (Later members would also include Rob Overall - guitar, voc.) (Thanks to Chris Holzhaus for data) ML writes: This band was a huge draw and big money maker for any club featuring this act around 80'-81'. The music was generally based around the culture of Jackson Browne tunes and genre, which they played with great skill. A big hit with the ladies, the members put forth a charismatic charm without taking away from their dead-on musical talents. A year or so after the breakup, Cher would front a band of the same name - no relation. (Contributed by Robin Overall) Robin writes: "Original members were Scott Byers, John David Martinez, Roger Santos, Jeff Crissler, and Rusty Adams on drums. Later Jeff would be replaced by Robin Overall but would return to the band later and Rusty Adams would be replaced by Mike Kennedy. Mike Workman came later on. Made a 4 song EP which received local radio air play." (Contributed by Mike Workman) MW writes: "Feb82-Aug84: Blackrose started as a trio in 1980, or so. John David Martinez, Scott Byers and Jeff Crisler did lots of guitar work and harmony. I know the order but not the exact times when some of the guys joined up. Roger Santos joined on bass to make it four, and then Rusty Adams joined on drums to make it five. When Snapshot was at our peak, we started seeing flyers for Blackrose at Cooter Browns. In Feb80, I was looking for a gig and Blackrose hired me. Then we were six. I always described us as the original classic rock band. We did Jackson Browne, CSNY, Eagles, Joe Walsh, Steely Dan, Dan Fogelberg, just about anyone that was big - and good - in the 70s. We also had a bunch of originals - some 10-12 we performed nightly during stretches. Mike Kennedy came along after I was in the band a year when Rusty decided to get out. We had some great touring through OK, AK, and LA before coming back to the Austin/Houston/Corpus/SATX staple tour. John David was the next to quit after another year or so. The late John Donahoe replaced him for six months or so when the band broke up. I still feel that Blackrose's contribution to music in South Texas was significant. Our management was good for what we did, but didn't have the organization in place to take the next step." (Contributed by Hunter Harrison) HH writes: "John David Martinez (Black Rose) is playing in a faith and worship band in S.A. these days."

BLITZ - (Contributed by Albert) Albert writes: "70's Judas Priest sound alike band from houston had heavy rotation on Kmac at the time."

BLUE TUESDAY - (Contributed by CJ Wilson) MEMBERS: C.J. Wilson-guitar,voc / Steve 'Liz" Kinser-voc /Geoff Kinser-keyboard,guitar /Tom Lienke-Bass (former member of the Lienke Brothers OKC) /Doc Holliday-drums /Blair Montgomery-Saxophone (former member of the Moondogs in OKC). '86-'87 Local r&b band i was in...this band opened for SRV.

BLUE SKYZ - (Contributed by Roy Rousseau) RR writes: "I, along with David Russell, Mike Lester, and Charlie Dickey have just started a blue grass gospel band called Blue skyz, blueskyzband.com. Music ministry is our purpose. These guys are great pickers and love the Lord."

BLUE VALLEY MILL - ( Contributed by Keith Hinshaw ) Keith writes: "I was a brat at Randolph AFB from 1967-71. Some of us brats put together a band called "Blue Valley Mill" and we were hot at the "Teen Canteen" for awhile in '70-71, It was myself on lead and vocals, Tom Koenig on rhythm, Speedy Moorhead on bass, Bob Hric on keyboard and most lead vocals, and a succession of off-base drummers. One drummer I remember was introduced to us only as "Lightbulb", who we got through Allen Grimm from KEXL_FM who managed us for a short time. We did mostly covers by CSN&Y, Santana, Cocker,etc., and a couple of originals by Bob, ("Iceberg Sea" & "Highway 35"). We were pretty good for our ages (18-20), but my heroes were "Homer"," Pablo's Grove", and "Joker Moon". I was surprised to see the names of Wink Kelso,Tommy Davis,and Phil Arroyo (in these listings). Phil was very kind to me as sort of a mentor. I remember times at "The Canteen" that people up here (Illinois) don't believe when I say names like ZZ Top, Steve Vaughn, and Christopher Cross (I remember him in a band called Blue Jam because we always came in second to them in battle of the bands!). (Contributed by Doug Ryniker) DR writes: "I was one of those "off base drummers" Keith mentioned, and worked with them in what I believe was the last incarnation around 1971. As I recall, we disbanded when Bob joined the Air Force."

BO PORTER & THE DIXIE ROCKITS - (Contributed by Andrea Porter) Check out this Austin outfit next time you are looking for a good time. Visit the website at http://www.boporter.com .

BOBBY JENKINS AND THE JADES - See Photo HERE - (Contributed by Stephen Shelfer) no info yet.

BOBBY JENKINS AND SOUTHERN MAGIC - (Contributed by David Sumners) DS writes: "Bobby Jenkins and Southern Magic 1980. A touring country rock band, we played locally and around Texas and Tennessee. Featuring Bobby Jenkins on vocals, guitar and fiddle, Billy “Bear“ Middleton on guitar, myself on bass, and some different drummers. What a talented player and song writer Bob is, and he still plays today with his equally talented son, Jodie."

THE BOIZ - (Contributed by Bobby Flores) BF writes: "I thought you might remember "The Boiz". We were around when Cooter Brown's, Great Jubilation and Scratch clubs were happening, around '83 though '86. The Boiz included the great Kort Ogden on bass (of the original HomeCooking), Phil Dalmolin on drums, Mike Byrne on keyboards, Mike Feliciano and myself on guitars & vocals. We played down at the Hyatt Riverwalk's La Puerta club as well. The Boiz was formed from an earlier band,"Gone City" which featured the incomparable, late Ronnie Warner. "Gone City" included both Al Balderama and Steve Camp on keyboards, Phil Dalmolin on drums, Fred Carrillo on sax, Mike Feliciano on guitar, Ronnie Warner and then later myself. "Gone City" did everything from Steely Dan to R & B, Funk and originals. "The Boiz" were a dance-rock group and we did the popular stuff at the time....The Fixx, Tubes, Van Halen, Sammy Hagar, The Cars, Toto, Christopher Cross, etc." (Contributed by Phil Dalmolin) PD writes: "I came back to SA to play with other country guys until mid '84 when Kort Ogden, Bobby Flores, Flea and I had been talking about putting together a top 40 techno/rock band and so became the BOIZ. We found a keyboard player from New Braunfels named Michael Byrne. We played all over south Texas and built quite a following. We played for a few years every Sunday night at a club on Fredricksburg road called "Great Jubilations." Everyone in SA knew and we built a great Sunday night crowd for a long time. I remember one of many funny stories about that place. For awhile we attracted some wrestlers from downtown and one night there were about 15 or 20 of them in there and they chose up sides (also something to do with an off duty drunk cop saying he could kick all their asses) And voila! we had a rock and roll John Wayne bar fight scene. They tore that place to shreds. Kort and I were in the kitchen with giant stewpots over our heads shaking like little girls! The Boiz lasted until around '87 when for whatever reasons the band fizzled out." (Contributed by Dennis Shows) DS writes: "My band The Craze's keyboard/guitarist Ken Brazle, had a home recording studio called 'Walk on water'. One time he asked me if i wanted to hang out, and keep an eye on the place, while some guys from San Antonio recorded there. It was the mid 80's, they were a jazz outfit. All i remember was the guitar players name was Mike [flea] Feliciano, and the bass players name was Kurt, he ran sound for us a few times. I remember Flea telling me that his most favorite guitar player in the whole world was Larry Carlton. He said that he had met him at the S.A. airport one time."

BONEYARD - (Contributed by Robby McKenzie) RM writes: "Just wanted to fill in a few blanks. The original Boneyard consisted of Stan Singleton on drums(one of your contributors), Robby McKenzie on guitars (thats me), Alroy(Pete) Lyro on bass, and James(Mac) Mcmahan vocals. We played at some of the clubs you mentioned and others.... Cuchi Room on East Houston comes to mind. We did all original hard rock. I think I remember seeing you guys at the Folklife Festivals. Keep up the good work."

BOOGIE BLUED - ( Contributed by Phil Moran a.k.a. OKIE D ) BAND MEMBERS: Garth Rankin - guitar,voc / Danny Cowan - guitar / Ricky Wells - bass,voc / Hal Wells - drums.

BOSS - (Contributed by Robin Overall) Robin writes: "It was me & Vince Coy-guitars,voc / Ralph Doelling -bass,voc / and Brian Goldberg-drums. We did some originals, lots of Bad Company and a 40 minute Beatles medley that was right before we (Vince and I ) played with you in OVERLOAD."

BOULEVARD - (Contributed by David Sumners) DS writes: "Boulevard 1980 -1985.Too many years spent with this band. Damn near ruined my health. Headed up by song writing duo of Rick Harper and Gary Bolen, the back up players were phenomenal. Dan Dreeben on drums, Mike Kindred on keyboards ( wrote SRV’s hit “Cold Shot” ) ,Don Earl Harding on vocal and guitar and myself on bass. Big aspirations, big egos and big habits broke this band."

BROTHERHOOD - (Contributed by Bobby Flores) BF writes: "In my late teens I had a top-40 band called Brotherhood. It featured: Drums: Bill Heath / Bass: Jim Kalson / Keyboards: John Brandesky / Steel: Gib Wharton / Guitar: Bobby Hargarther & myself Vocals: Pam Kalson & I"

CARMEN BRYANT - (Contributed by Mike Workman) MW writes: "Sep89-Nov89: Carmen Bryant hired me to play in her band, mostly R&B, jazz, and soul. We played a lot on the East Side of SATX, mostly black clubs, functions. In that band was Carmen, myself, Cecil Carter on trumpet, John Tyndell on Bass, Jimmy Smith on drums (these three were from the US Army Band at Ft Sam), David Lukey on sax. Cooking band, really!"

BUBBLE PUPPY - BAND MEMBERS: ML writes: Four piece band based out of Houston (I think). Played around the state. In 69' had a huge radio hit. Great guitar players. Years later I saw them at FitzWilly's in SA. Visit the Bands website at: http://www.bubblepuppy.com (Contributed by Chris Holzhaus ) Chris writes: "Originally called The Bad Seeds from Corpus Christi. This band was very big in Texas from the early to the mid 60's. After moving to Austin somewhere around 1967 the band reformed as the Bubble Puppy and headed for Houston to record with Lelon Rodgers, (kennys brother and noted producer of the 13th Floor Elevators). The band members were > Rod Prince (lead guitar), Todd Potter (lead guitar..they did alot of twin guitar riffs), David Fore(drums), Roy Cox(bass). Their national hit, " Hot Smoke and Sassafrass". (Contributed by Robin Overall) Robin writes: "After their regional success with "Hot Smoke and Sasafras"the band broke up for a time after moving to Los Angeles and getting disillusioned (imagine that). I remember one night in about 1970 or 71 playing in Austin with Homer somewhere on 6th street and Rod Prince came in. We got him to sit in and he traded "chops" with Galen Niles....I remember Rod struggling and Galen dominating the jam. Rod later told me he had not played in some time. Within the next year or so he was back in L.A. and had the original Bubble Puppy together once again this time under the name Damien. They had a national release on ABC/Dunhill with a few of the same songs that were on the original Bubble Puppy album. They did get some radio air play here in Texas and I remember going to see them at the Jam Factory for their big coming home concert but the times had passed them by and they were soon to be dropped from their label deal. They were one of the real Texas hippie bands and were really something during the "Hot Smoke and Sassafras" era. I know Ralph Doelling still has a copy of the original Bubble Puppy album and I still have a copy of the Damien album." ( Contributed by Todd Potter ) Todd writes: "I did want to correct some recollections of Robin Overall's contained in his contribution to the trivia page. Bubble Puppy's ' Hot Smoke and Sassafrass' was not a regional hit but actually went to number 9 nationally. Having been had by our label we moved to L.A. and signed with ABC/Dunhill and the name change was done because Dunhill did not want the legal hassle with International Artist, which had released "Gathering of Promises". Bubble Puppy/ Demian had not disbanded and reunited later to form Demian. As for having jammed with Rod sometime in 71' or 72', somewhere on 6th street, as we Austinites know, sixth street had no music venues in the early seventies as it was still a warehouse district with a few struggling retail, hardware, and feed stores, with a few beer joints where the winos hung out. Your basic skid row. Must have been sometime after 77'-78' when the first of the clubs was opened by Hank Vick and it was yet a while before others took the risk and joined in the redevelopment of Sixth Street. Visit www.bubblepuppy.com for the whole story under "Puppy Tales" and "The Demian Story". The Demian Story being the most telling as to Robin's perception that "time had passed us by", when he saw us on that tour. We weren't dropped by ABC. We disbanded with the second Demian Album budget check in hand and walked away from it. L.A was not the kind of place we could flourish and (our) souls were weary of it." (Contributed by Robin Overall) RO writes: "I wanted to respond to Todd Potter's comment on the Rod Prince "sighting" in Austin in about '71. Even though the big 6th Street "thang" had not happened yet, there was a 6th Street in Austin and the place Homer played that night was in fact on 6th Street....closer to Lamar. It was a Hamburger/Beer joint with a stage. I didn't get to jam with Rod but Galen certainly did and I'm sure all the members of Homer remember it. As far as info about Bubble Puppy breaking up......that came from things Rod told us that night. My comments were only remembrances of a fan. That's the cool thing about this sight.......we can get all the facts eventually." (Contributed by Sonnie B) SB writes: "It was fun reading about the Texas bands of my youth on your website. BubblePuppy kept their equipment in our garage in Austin for a time, friends of my brother Jeff Smith. Loooongggg time ago!"

BUCKBOARD BOOGIE BOYS - (See Photos HERE) - ( Contributed by Phil Moran a.k.a. OKIE D ) BAND MEMBERS: Claude Morgan - guitar,voc / Larry Patton - bass,guitar / Roger Santos - bass,voc / Little Larry Robertson - drums / Pete Karouth.(Contributed by Chris Holzhaus ) Chris writes: "On Buckboard Boogie Boys....you have Pete Karouth.....it was Ron Kunuth fiddle and vocals." (Contributed by Roger Johnson) Roger writes: "I followed Claude Morgan and the Buckboard Boogie Boys for about six months in '77 and saw them play about three nights a week during that period. This was the four piece lineup with Claude, Larry, Roger Santos (this is after Roger had played in Pat Wetmore's first band, Jasmine ca. '75) and Tom Stephens on drums. I sure do miss my attitude check with the band. Tom Stephens drums with what I think is Two Weeks Notice with Phil Arroyo. I saw them in some club on Broadway in April, 2000. By the way, Tommy Stephens (I think that's his name) plays with the band, too. He was the keyboard player for the last incarnation of Man Mountain and the Green Slime Boys (?)." (Contributed by Larry Patton) LP writes: "There was a Buckboard Boogie Boys before I came back to S.A. in 1975 but I don't know who they were. Ron Knuth, Larry Roberson, Albert Lowe Jr., David Zettner and myself had been playing with Hank Williams Jr. when he had his accident in August (he fell 200 ft. off of a mountain in Montana while on a hunting trip with some friends and was in the hospital there for eight (8) months, so we were working all around Arizona and New Mexico as "The Star Country String Band" until about November of 1975. We ended up in San Antonio and ran into Claude ( I had been playing with him off and on since we were in the army together 1967 - 1969). He had a bunch of dates booked at "J. Alfred Proofrocks" as the Buckboard Boogie Boys, ( I am not sure why, but he had no band ). We all started working together, finally Albert Lowe went back to Muscle Shoals, Alabama and David Zettner went to Austin, Texas so that left the four of us. 1975 - 1977 was Claude Morgan (vocals, guitar, trumpet), Larry Patton (vocals, bass, guitar), Ron Knuth (vocals, fiddle, squeeze box, guitar), Larry Roberson (drums) and sometimes Allen Chapman (bass). 1978 - 1979 the group started out as a trio with Claude Morgan (vocals, guitar, trumpet), Roger Santos (vocals, bass), Jimmy "The Bird" Rose (drums, vocals) joined again later by Larry Patton (vocals, guitar). This lineup recorded a live album at Fitzwilly's on Sept. 29th / 30th, 1978 entitled "Lucky To Be LIve" with a special guest appearance by "Little Jet and the Rockets". The tickets were a $10.00 t-shirt advertising the event (blue on Friday/red on Saturday) and you had to wear the t-shirt to get in (no exceptions). There was also a sign up sheet for all who attended and all the names were printed on the inside sleeve of the album. The album cover and photos were taken by the legendary Rock-N-Roll photographer Tom Wright. These albums were pressed on red vinyl and are now collectors items selling on the internet for $35.00 a piece. I think Claude may still have a few of them. I have mine. I have many fond memories of playing with The Buckboard Boogie Boys. The lineup with Claude, Larry Roberson, Ron Knuth and myself recorded a live album at a reunion concert in San Antonio on June 1st, 2000 at The Casbeers Night Club. It was great to see so many of the old regulars there, just like old times. If you missed it, there is a Cd in the works, but it is very hard to edit a Buckboard concert. If you were ever at one you will know what I mean."

BUDGIE - (Contributed by Tom Barrett) TB writes: "Budgie is still touring, new guitarist, John Thomas is recovering from illness. Check out the site at: http://www.budgie.uk.com " (Contributed by Tom Barrett) TB writes: "We may be coming up to the Dallas area with Pete Boot ('In For The Kill', 73-5 Budgie drummer,lion,ex Judas Priest) and Bill Sheffield ('Hey Baby' , 'Que Paso' writer). Could you please put up a link for us, the UK fest is called 'fillyourheadwithrock.com' . Featured this year is Susan Gibson (dixie chick writer), and some other notables including Trevor Burton (ex Move) he does a great Traffic set."

BULLIT LAVOLTA - (Contributed by Sam Wakefield) SW writes: "Clay Tarver (another Alamo Heights alum.) Formed Bullet Lavolta in late '80's in Boston. Signed to Kerrang and later RCA, they toured with Soundgarden, Prong, etc. Is now member of sometimes active NYC band Chavez (on Matador records), garnering much indie cred."

BILLY BUTTERFIELD & DANNY MEYER - (Contributed by Jim Meyer) JM writes: "My father Danny Meyer played with Billy Butterfield from about 1958-1960. They made 2 recordings: 1."Billy Plays Bix", 2."Jazz Festival". He was in Northfolk Virginia in the late 50's. Danny Meyer had played with many off the greats (he also did 3 years in the west point band) from Louie Armstrong in the late 40s to Bob Dylan and Joan Baez in the Greenwich Village Days. He was also at West Point Academy. He was at the Virginia Beach Jazz Festival in 1960 with Billy Butterfield, Tommy Gwaltney, Charlie Bird, Ernie (Stonewall) Caceres. He also played with the Jolly Rogers band with Tommy Gwaltney. He died in 1989 of cancer. I would like to find the 2nd album he and Billy made:"Jazz Festival". Anyone out there have any further info???

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CAIN'S CHILDREN - ( Contributed by Phil Moran a.k.a. OKIE D ) BAND MEMBERS: Doug Barnes - voc / Kent Qvereau - guitar / David Ludwig - drums / Mark (DYNO) Eastwood - bass / and Steve McClelland - keys. Phil writes: The best band from Alamo Heights HS, except for FLASH, of course. This band covered lots of really cool material: DOORS, 13th FLOOR ELEVATORS, LOVE, and HENDRIX at the Mule Stall. They played "Fire" and "Purple Haze" one night. I asked "DYNO" who the songs were by. He told me about Jimi Hendrix, and the next morning I was at the record store before it opened to buy "Are You Experienced?". I was transformed forever. (Thanx!) In the 1970 yearbook, these guys were all juniors (we were freshman). They were COOL and GOOD when they were sophomores in HS. Even now, I'm impressed!

CARASCO, JOE KING - (See Photo HERE) -(Contributed by CJ Wilson) CJ writes: "Joe King Carasco..i ran the sound system on that show in Norman...his drummer was whining to their female keyboardist about Joe not liking him or something and she was trying to advise him on how to talk to Joe..i thought it was funny. Joe was just oblivious to everything going on around him during setup. I asked him how he liked his Roland Space Echo,and he went 'oh, i don't know, how do you like it?' He went to play video games. (Contributed by Randy Galliher) Randy writes: "I saw Joe King Carrasco for the first time in Austin at Club Foot about 1984. He put on a fantastic show jumping into the audience from the second floor balcony while playing lead guitar. Years later I caught him on Saturday Night Live as the featured Band. He tried to backflip into the audience and they almost dropped him. I don't think the audience knew what hit them. It was just great Tex/Mex Conjunto Rock-n-Roll. In 1998 I saw Joe at a bar in Tampa, Florida called Skippers. Skippers is a great restaurant/bar with large oak trees like Cooter Brown's used to have. Joe had long dred locks and had put on a few pounds (like most of us). The crowd was sparse and he did no backflips into the dancers. He has added more reggae to his sets. During a break I spoke with him at the bar and he told me he was playing that gig for his wifes' relatives in Tampa. Nevertheless, the music was great and he still has an exceptional musical style. I always thought he would become re-discovered as another "Elvis Costello" type." (Contributed by Martin Medina) MM writes: "The King's "La Semana" Shows were legendary. Me and my buddies traveled up to the Hill country to see them once. They were billed with a bunch of hard rock bands. I think Yesterday and Today was one of the headliners. They were almost booed off stage. We loved it. We ended up leaving with them to do a photo shoot at the Alamo with a writer from the English rock magazine, New Musical Express. I'll never forget it."

CANARY - (Contributed by CJ Wilson) CJ writes: Canary...i never got to see them..but i believe they were a Texas act. I remember a friend of mine saying the drummer set his cymbals on fire with a lighter.

CASINO ROYALE - They wore real tall platform shoes.

CASTLE - (Contributed by Robin Overall) BAND MEMBERS: Darrel Roberts-lead vocalist,flute / Robin Overall-guitar,voc / Ralph Doelling-bass,voc / Mark Anderson-drums (also, later would be Alan Layton-drums & Brian Goldberg-drums.)

THE CATALINAS - (Contributed by Larry Patton) LP writes: "I was also in a band in high school (Sam Houston High) called "The Catalinas". Larry Patton (Lead Guitar), Ken Schuchardt (Bass), Terry Loper (Lead Guitar), Mike Portis (Drums), John Brown (Vocals). Mike Portis and myself are the only ones still playing music. From what I can remember we lost a lot of talent contests to the Spidels. They were a great band with a huge following. Most of the Spidels also went to Sam Houston High at this same time in the early sixties, Terry Patton, Jerry Osborn, Jesse Samudio, Eugene (Gene) Coleman. Thanks! Larry - my website is: http://www.americanfreedomshowcase.com ." (Contributed by Skip Mascorro) SM writes: "I remember well the Catalina's ...they were neighborhood guys on the southeast side. I believe Mike Portis was the drummer a few houses up the street on Shelburn where I would sit out on the curb and listen to them practice. I also remember Eugene Coleman's paisley topped Ford Falcon passing by my house almost everyday as I rode my bicycle home from school."

CATS CRADLE - (Contributed by David Holloway) DH writes: "Another group I remember was called "Cats Cradle". They played mostly at the "Garter" down on the river walk. Very small club-very tight group, consisting of a female lead singer, drums, bass, keyboard (Ricky Hernandez) , and guitar (Mike Sunjka). They played several songs from Jesus Christ Superstar." (Contributed by Michael Lucke) MLucke writes: "Suzy Jenson sang, Steve Spencer was the drummer, Ricky Hernandez played organ, Mike Szunka was on guitar, and Bob whose last name I have forgotten played bass. They played nightly at the Garter on the river, and played everything from Leon Russell (Of Thee I Sing), Frank Zappa's Peaches en Regalia, some early Allman Bros., the medley from side two of the Beatles' Abbey Road, plus some jazz guitar from folks like Wes Montgomery. Oh, you can throw in some Stones, Joe Cocker, and Steve Winwood, too. A really entertaining bar band." (Contributed by Steve Spencer) SS writes: "The bass player for Cat's Cradle was Robert Schulman. Last I knew, he was a practising Attorney at Law in San Antonio. I played drums in this group. It was a great time...The Garter was THE hot club for live music from
1968-1974. I can remember nights when we got a crowd so going that they were literally dancing on tops of the tables. We also had the opportunity to meet most of the top groups of the time that came to San Antonio for concerts. I fondly remember "Chicago" coming to the Garter every time they came to town. Chicago's drummer, Danny Seraphine would sit in and have a ball. Afterwards, we would all go to Mi Tierra to have some great Mexican food. While I played in numerous good bands at the Garter, no group that I ever played with had the charisma and the ability to relate to an audience more than Cat's Cradle."

CECIL AND SYLVIA - (Contributed by Scoop) S writes: "I haven't read through every entry yet, but I don't recall seeing any mention of Cecil Thomason and/or Cecil and Sylvia. He was friends with Pat Wetmore and David Hill."

CELEBRATION OF THE GNU - (Contributed by BJMMJB) writes: "Ran into a friend, guitarist Jeff Doyle,and he told me to check out your website. Boy did the memories start coming back. Here is some more trivia for you. Ralph Straub was in a band in the early 70's called "Celebration of the Gnu". That was about the time "Flash" was popular in San Antonio. The band was a 3 piece with Ralph playing keys and touch bass. The drummer's first name was Clarence or "Clance" but I can't remember his last name. The guitar player was Arthur Barrow who later went on to play with his mentor Frank Zappa and did a couple albums with him. After Arthur left, Ralph and Clance started a 2 piece band similar to "Lee Michaels". Ralph bought a Hammond organ that had been in a flood and reworked the whole electronics of it and I remember it being the baddest sounding B3 organ around. He was truly a genius when it came to electronics. All these guys went to Alamo heights high school. It's amazing how many musicians came out of that school during that era."

THE CENTURYS - (Contributed by Will Bellamy) Will writes: "The Centurys started in 1963 at Alamo Heights High School at the annual Howdy Night Fiesta. ......." ML writes: To read this along with many more stories about 'The Century's' and other bands, see the GRABBAG section by Will Bellamy and George Maillot - OR click HERE.

CHAD - (Contributed by Ray Wilburn) RW writes: "I was with a funk group around San Antonio named "Chad" members were Harold Green-keys, Gregory Givens-guitar, Josev Castano-guitar, Leonard Wilrich-bass guitar, Marvin Middleton-vocals, and William Smith vocals and percussion."

GEORGE CHAMBERS - (Contributed by Bobby Flores) BF writes: "Do you have info on George Chambers and the Country Gentlemen yet? George was and still is a leading force and very well known here in SA. He had one of the best C & W dance bands in this part of the country during the '50's, '60's, '70's and into the '80's and was very instrumental in helping many to launch their careers. Still performs but mostly as a duo or trio thing, acoustically. He was one of the major influences around here and everyone has much respect for him. Another one is Ray Szapanik and the Top Hands. Been working around here since the '50's too and is still known to have one of the most authentic country bands in the area."

CHANGING FACES - no info yet

CHASE - (Contributed by Dennis Shows) DS writes: "I was looking at your trivia website, and I noticed the piece that Bobby Stoner contributed about the band Foxfire, and their guitarist David DeLuna. I am from Port Lavaca, about 30 miles south of Victoria. I graduated in 1980, and really didn't get to go out to see live music until the 80;s, but when I did, I saw this band at a little dive in the country called the Music Box. There was this band there called CHASE; they kicked major buttocks! They were extremely tight as they played covers by Sammy Hagar, Eddie Money, Journey, and even some real good originals that could have been played on the radio at that time. Anyway, being an aspiring guitarist; I took to David's style, and he was and is still an amazing player! I ended up befriending David, and, have kept in touch with him off and on, from then to today. Let me give some history, where b.s. left off. David on guitar[lead], Mike Penson on lead vocals and rythym guitar, Frank Nance on drums, John Bustos on bass. This lineup lasted until about late 84. Frank left to join the Emotions, I think, and was replaced by a guy out of Austin, named Paul Ramsey. Paul Ramsey left the band quickly, because some things were different than he was told. I left Port Lavaca for a couple of years, and was told that the band went through a few drummers, and a new bass player, that I didn't meet 'till around 2000, named Skip, I cant remember his last name. Ultimately, the band broke up, in about 87 or 88. David played with several bands in the area, including the Emotions, in the early 90's. he finally decided to do his own stuff, and along the way became born again, He now has a three piece band, with Paul Ramsey, back on drums, and Skip, back on bass. They play Christian inspired instrumental rock, and some with vocals too, in the same vein as Joe Satriani, and Eric Johnson; they are called S.K.P."

CHASER - (Contributed by Tony Pena) TP writes: "Another band I failed to mention was Chaser which originally consisted of Jay Martinez (guitar & vocals), Pete Hernandez (keyboard and vocals), Chris Alaniz (drums) and Stanley (bass & vocals). These guys played a variety of blues, rock n roll and rhythm and blues.They sounded so good that when Stanley was quitting and they recruited me for the band, I tried to talk Stanley into staying. He was definitely a key part. Anyway I joined that band and tried to meet the expectations while playing at the Swizzle stick, Casbeers, and various other clubs that I can't remember.Jay Martinez is still playing around town with various combos, Pete moved to Colorado to accept a music teacher position after he got his degree here, Chris stepped into religion and haven't heard from him.Very versatile band and I definitely learned a lot from those guys."

CHAYNS - (Contributed by Phil Moran) no info yet. (Contributed by Roger Barnes) Roger writes: "Another band that i recall as being big in the local teen SA scene during that era was "The Chains"....they seemed to rule at all the Battle of the Bands in the area. I could be wrong on the spelling of "The Chains" but could swear it was spelled as I wrote it, maybe they changed it (to 'Chayns') as they progressed. I just remember that they were considered the coolest SA band going around 1966." (Contributed by Stephen Shelfer) SS writes: "A bit of info on the Chaynes (that's the spelling I remember),Charles Eddleman: Rhythm Guitar,Vocals (Edison), Miles Wells: Lead Guitar, Ocarina on WILD THING (McCollum, I think) Bob Tummer: Drums (school unknown), Dale Watson: Bass (Edison) Name of Lead Vocalist unknown." (Contributed by Jim Frizzell) JF writes: "I played guitar/keyboards originally with a band called the "Rel-Yeas". Early 60's to mid-60's. I was also a member of the "Chayns" from around 67'/68' to around 72'. After the Rel-Yeas ended, I started a group called "Applebutter". (weird name selection.. but we got a very popular in a very short period of time... ). Around 1967-8, Applebutter was playing a gig at the Lackland Officers Club and Charles Eddleman and Miles Wells had heard some good things about us and came out to listen. They approach us that night about possibly joining forces with them as the Chayns had recently broken up and were looking for new musicians. With the Chayns popularity already in San Antonio, it didn't take long for us to say yes. Of course only several of us were asked to join but that is how bands come and go... it wound up as follows: Miles Wells-lead guitar/ Charles Eddleman-vocals, hammond organ, rhythem guitar, bass guitar /
Jim Frizzell-vocals, hammond organ, rheem keyboard bass, bass guitar, guitar/ John Stephenson -vocals, drums / Larry Milligan-bass, guitar. As it turned out, the harmony vocals between Charles, John, and myself were a good mix and lead us off in doing a lot of songs by Three Dog Night, Grand Funk Railroad, Crosby Stills Nash & Yound, etc. Hours could be spent about our musical adventures...." (Contributed by Thom Di Fronzo) TDF writes: "Wow! Some really good details about San Antonio's own hometown group The CHAYNS. I was disappointed that their TOP 45 all time BEST SELLER was NIGHTTIME on one side, and that beautiful instrumental LIVE FOR THE MOON on side two. I have been searching for these two songs since my return from Nam in '73. Do you have these? Also, I noticed, later in years, that the song NIGHTTIME was being used in a Budweiser commercial! I never did find out for sure how they got hold of that tune and used it, but rumor had it that the CHAYNs let the copyright lapse, and Budweiser snapped it up. Both of these tunes were OUTSTANDING! I heard the CHAYNS play at Ft. Sam, Bracken ridge Park (at the old KTSA Lazy days of summer and the Beginning of Summer Festivals they always put on. Back in the days of Bruce Hathaway and Ricci Ware who was my neighbor for years!) So, can you locate these songs? I am a wedding singer (really!) here in Houston, and I'd sure play both of these at every wedding if I had them! Great site, Brother, and keep up the good work! P.S. I can still pick up a guitar and play and sing NIGHTTIME!" (Contributed by Chris Holzhaus) CH writes: "I seem to remember a Chayn member, by the name of Wayne Gustafson, i think. He was an original member I'm sure. The drummers name was Bob Tumblinson. Again, i think.." (Contributed by Skip Mascorro) SM writes: "Mike..noticed reference to the Chaynes instrumental, "Live with the Moon". I heard it played on KSYM a few weeks ago riding down the road and couldn't believe my ears. Immediately tried to connect with the station to no avail, to find out if it was an old cut or a cover. Still don't know. If you were a San 'Antonio musician learning to play a guitar, playing "Live with the Moon" was where one graduated...after learning "Gloria!.... G-L-O-R-I-A!" (Contributed by Matt Farrar) ML writes: The following link is an excellent article sent in by Matt Farrar who was around in the early days during the formation of this great band. Click HERE to read. (Contributed by George Callins) GC writes: "If memory serves, Galen Niles was in that band and wrote the B-side Live With the Moon, but I saw no mention of him in the write up. Now, I HAVE been known to be wrong once or twice." (Contributed by Gary Oleson) GO writes: "The Chains (later Chayns) drummer was Bob Tunmer (John Jay HS). I got the group together, but I was too young (& square) to stick with them."

CHEAP TRICK - ML writes: While doing a Wed night gig at the Knave Club in SA with my band PANTOMIME, members of Cheap Trick came in to bar hop and look for a little R&R after their show downtown at the Municipal Auditorium earlier in the night. The lead singer "Robin" and drummer just wanted to relax and enjoy some local music. It can be intimating to try and play your set when you know that national class musicians are in the crowd. When our break time came we went over and chatted with them. By this time, a large crowd had surrounded them after having been recognized or ratted out by the club owners. They were very polite and talkative although it was obvious that they were tired from a long hard day. I was charmed by the fact that they were basically down to earth nice guys who would have preferred to stay anonymous for the evening. Many big stars have egos but not these guys. I grew to like the band after having met them and wish them continued success.

CHICKEN LITTLE AND HIS FABULOUS EGGWHITES - See Photo HERE (Contributed by Randall Rudd) RR writes:"Chicken Little and His Fabulous Eggwhites," the legendary outfit from Abilene, Texas, was not only the inspiration for Johnny Dee & The Rocket 88s, but some of the original players are still with the band nearly 40 years later. Others went on to be part of "The Electromagnets." The Fabulous Eggwhites were a phenom in West Texas at the time. They invented Elvis impersonation, with the first known Elvis impersonator, Tommy Grisham, complete with gold suit! And this was back when Johnson was still president! They did lots of Mothers of Invention, Elvis, parodies of the hit bands of the day, originals and what's now called "oldies." Plus onstage comedy routines and bits. Way, way ahead of their time."

THE CHILDREN - ( Contributed by Kenny Cordray ) BAND MEMBERS: Steve Perron-vocals & main songwriter / Cassel Webb-vocals / Louis Cabaza-key bass,keyboards,vocals,and arrangements / Jim Newhouse-drums,vocals / Kenny Cordray-guitar / (also Bill Ash - guitar / (also Chris Holzhaus-guitar). Kenny writes: "The Children were originally from San Antonio.We recorded for Atco in the 60's (BILL ASH on guitar) and Ode records in the early 70's. Out of these sessions came '"Francine'' by Perron/Cordray which was the single off of ZZ TOP's Rio Grande Mud album. I went on to play with Wayne Cochran & CC Riders with Jaco Pastoruis, Cassel is producing records in New York, Louis performed in LA for over 15 yrs, and now is back in San Antonio playing. Jim Newhouse is living in Houston, and sadly Steve passed away in 73' ". ML writes: I ran across numerous internet references to Kenny's accomplishments including song writing, session work, jazz festivals, and solo CD's. If you are in the Houston area, keep your eyes open for performances by this ex-Children member. ( Contribution by Chris Holzhaus ) Chris writes: Kenny Cordray left out a whole section of Children info...the band was the ARGYLES and when we moved to California in 66 we became the Children (Davey Jones of Monkee fame was our mgr.)...then..we added Cassel Webb who lives in England now. Kenny didn't come into the band until the early 70's and wouldn't know much of our times in LA since he was 14 when he joined the band and I was gone already. He (Kenny) did later work with Wayne Cochran & CC Riders and did the lead guitar work on Skylark's hit "wildflower" (leslie guitar licks ..real good). I am surprized he didn't remember that session?...it was a big hit! Anyway...thought i'd throw that in...." ( Addition by Kenny Cordray ) Kenny writes: "I did not play on the studio track of "Wildflower" by Skylark but I did tour with them ." ( Contributed by Bill Ash ) Bill writes: "I was the lead guitar player for two Texas bands in the 60's. "The Stoics" and the "Children". I wrote the first Children single: "Picture Me" and about half the cuts on the Children's album "Re Birth". After I left the band to travel in Japan, Kenny Cordray joined them as their lead guitarist. The Children were taken to Hollywood by Davie Jones of the Monkees who recorded that single "Picture me" at the Beach Boy studio, and we spent the summer playing around LA in clubs like the Hullabaloo. When Davie Jones got ripped off by his manager (who was our guardian and manager as well) we went from nice clothes and apartment to having to crash in a friend's garage for a month. We finally burned out with no money or management support and returned to Houston, where we recorded our first album a year later which was picked up and released by ATCO (AtlanticRecords) and that is another story..." (Contributed by Kurt Linhof) Kurt writes: "The Children, last iteration (late 1970 to the end) after keyboardist/writer/arranger Louis Cabaza left the band, consisted of: Steve Perron - songwriting, vocals, occasional acoustic guitar or piano, Cassell Webb - vocals, percussion, Kenny Cordray - guitars, Jim Newhouse - drums and percussion devices, Kurt Linhof - bass, lap steel. As stated already on the website, Steve died. Cassell, living in London, has released 7 albums/CD's on Virgin in Europe, and engineers part-time at Abbey Road. She is also doing production engineering with Craig Leone, on projects ranging from Blondie to Pavarotti. Kenny has cut a couple of CD's but not released them, Jim is on the verge of playing again, in Houston, and now 8 years out of rehab, I'm recording demos of 25 years worth of new tunes. While the Children were going through some changes, in '70, before Dusty and Frank came along, I played bass with Billy G. as he developed his sound, although Reed Farrell had a lot more to do with ZZ's original sound than I did. The only concept Billy and I fully developed that I've ever heard is the music to Morphine's "Buena," but it could be just a stone coincidence. My only good story from that period: Kenny Cordray was in a car wreck a couple of days before the Children were to open for B.B. King, in Huntsville, and instead of canceling, I convinced Steve to let Billy fill in, which is the first time he heard "Francene," a tune of Steve and Kenny's we had just cut as a demo. It came out as ZZ's first or second single, and the Children fell apart and never officially released it, although it is on a bootleg CD with 6 other demos on Collectible Records. Then in '74 or '75 I came up with "Arrested For Driving While Blind", Billy copped it, and although I got $500 down, songwriting credit and royalties are, naturally, Gibbons, Hill, Beard. Life goes on. My one brush with notoriety. I've seen it on a list of the 25 worst rock songs ever, for political incorrectness." (Contributed by Steve Trowbridge) ST writes: "Mike, When I found this, I thought, this is exactly the kind of stuff (MikesBandArchive) would like. All kinds of familiar names pop-up in this Bio. I sent a correction to them about Chris' misspelled last name." To read a very in-depth history of the Children saga brought to my attention by Steve Trowbridge, click the link HERE .

CHRIS HOLZHAUS - (See Photo HERE) - (See YouTube Video -Nov18,07 HERE ) ML writes: Here is a guy that can only be described as an honest to goodness Texas Blues guitar legend. His work goes back some 35 years or so. Never in all of that time did Chris ever venture to far from his roots in the blues or variations of the blues. While much of the time Chris performs as a solo artist with band, he has played in a long list of bands most notably in Augie Meyers band - LP ("You ain't rollin your roll right") and 14 years as main axeman for recording artist Delbert McClinton based out of Ft.Worth Tx. Chris has played with many, many groups such as The Argyles, Giant Smiling Dog, Eastwood Review, The Children and many, many more. If you have lived in SA or the Texas area any length of time........you know who he is. One of the best slide players ever and has a CD on the market and still plays the Texas area. (Contributed by Val Mora) VM writes: "I jammed many times with Chris thru the late 80's and early 90's. I fondly recall doing a gig with Chris and Van at an outdoor restaurant on 410 and Evers area. It had palm trees. Jammed with Chris many times at clubs up and down Austin Hwy in NE SA. Kimosabe's and Jagged Sky come to mind. Ran into Chris at Heart of Texas (in Austin) along with SRV more than a few times. I would like to jam with Chris again."

CHRIS HOLZHAUS BAND - (Contributed by David Sumners) DS writes: "Chris Holzhaus Band 1979. What a power house. Chris on lead and vocals plus Vince Coy on lead. Man, it was like Rick Derringer and Johnny Winter blazing away. Those guys just smoked ‘em. We had a great drummer, a very young ( 19 I think) Mike Kennedy, who now plays drums for George Strait, and myself on bass. Mike was the drummer on Chris’s unreleased instrumental “Stick Up“ featuring David McDavid which was recorded at a local studio down on Broadway. Anybody remember that one ? Mike Taylor produced the Butt Hole Surfers there. “Stick Up” was an Average White Band type tune that just punched you in the guts. Most of our gigs were at some of the little clubs up and down the Austin Highway."

CHRISTOPHER CROSS - Also see listing and photos for FLASH ML writes: His real name is Chris Geppert. Long before he was famous and the Grammy awards he spent years in the San Antonio area. When I first moved to SA I became aware of him and his band FLASH. He was always known to me as this great guitar player who could be seen at a number of local gigs. I don't know why he never became known as a guitar player once he hit the big time. I once heard him do a note for note rendition of Cream's "Crossroads". My mouth dropped at the ease which he pulled this off. One of my favorite original tunes of Chris's in the early days was a song called "The Crush". Chris came from a rich family and was several years ahead of me attending Alamo Heights HS. I once had the chance to talk to Chris at a gig at the Teen Canteen and what he said surprised me at the time. He was totally disgusted with the band business and he was getting ready to quit and go back to school to be a dentist. Which he did for a while (I heard). A couple years later I found out he had returned to the music business and moved to Austin and formed a cover band called CHRIS CROSS (among others) playing the college circuit. I once caught a gig by this lineup at FitzWilly's near UTSA one night. They did a great set of Beach Boys tunes note for note among other songs. He got the music industry behind him after years of struggle and demo tapes and managed to sweep the Grammy's (1980) to everyone's surprise including his. Phil Arroyo, a local guitarist, ran into him at a music store in SA a year after his 5 grammy sweep. He told Phil that despite his gold record he had yet to see any money from the label. It took another 6 months or so for the money to start rolling in and all that time he had to continue to live as a poor guy on a small allowance. Things finally got better and Chris spent his money on race cars until he had a bad accident almost ending his career. His web site says that he is back to songwriting and continues to record. Now on his 7th CD release. Click HERE to view his web site. ML adds: The following contribution is by Rob Meurer, who is a long time Chris Geppert co-song writer, musical partner, talented multi-instrumentalist and SA veteran. Rob politely corrected me on several items that I had previously written in error. (Contributed by Rob Meurer ) Rob writes: "Flash and The Oh-So-Good Band never co-existed. A little back-info: During the Flash days, I was the drummer in Virgil Foxx (which featured the one and only Jay Hoyer, as well as, in an earlier incarnation, Phil Arroyo. Andy Salmon was the lead guitarist in The Laughing Kind (which featured singer Phil Bepko, who Dubby later played with). Flash, Virgil Foxx, and The Laughing Kind all played at the Jam Factory and other S.A. mainstays in the later 60s, and we were fans of each others bands. The Laughing Kind was the first to disband, and Dubby was replaced in Flash by Andy Salmon, who switched to bass for the gig (and stayed on bass for many years). When Flash broke up, I played drums for a while in a trio called Mister Moose, which featured Dubby on bass and Cliff Oliver on guitar. After a while, Chris wound up in the group and Cliff eventually headed off for law school (Correction: Cliff writes: "finish my accounting degree"). So this trio became The Oh-So-Good Band. But it was at least a year after Flash had broken up; probably more. In '72, Chris, Andy, Tommy Davis, and I all moved to Austin and formed a group. After many name, city, and personnel changes, this group (minus Tommy Davis and plus Tommy Taylor on drums; I'd switched to keys) became the band Christopher Cross. We played as a group for years while sending out demo tapes of Chris' material to labels, and we were all on the big WB album in '80, after WB changed Chris Geppert into Christopher Cross. We all still lived in Austin when the hits were happening. Chris never moved to L.A. until well after the success was in full gear. I played with Chris off and on (but mostly on) until just a year or so ago We put out his seventh album last year, and he sounds better than ever". (Addition by Rob Meurer) "Hank Hehmsoth was our second keyboardist on a few Cross tours, but never played on the records. Old Trivia: The first time Chris and I ever played his music together -- in 1970 in his bedroom at his parents' house on Newbury Terrace, ......... Chris borrowed a Rhodes for me from Hank Hehmsoth" . (Contributed by Kurt Linhof) Kurt writes: "Christopher Cross, in 1974, for the first studio single, 'Talkin' 'Bout Her" consisted of: Chris (Geppert) Cross-vocals and guitar, Eric Johnson-lead guitar, Rob Meurer - keys, Jim Newhouse-percussion, Kurt Linhof-bass. We played in Houston disguised as 'Heatherblack', a pretty hot cover band. Additional or alternate personnel were, at various times: Galen Latimer-vocals, Kenny Cordray-lead guitar, Clay Hemphill-keys."

CIRCLE C BAND - (Contributed by Bobby Flores) BF writes: "Then there was the Circle "C" Band who was another local C & W dance band that featured some local legend musicians, like Don Pack on steel and the late Cal Berry on fiddle & mandolin. What about the Metheny Brothers? They still perform around here some and were another very popular and talented band. Featured Travis (bass) and Perry (fiddle) Metheny, very talented guys and well respected in the local music scene. Tully Magnum was on guitar and Glen Harden was on steel. All very worth mentioning."

C.J. & THE PARTY CRASHERS - (Contributed by CJ Wilson) MEMBERS: C.J. Wilson-guitar,voc /Jayne Brady-Bass /Deb Hill-Drums(circa '89-'92)

CLEAR - ( Contributed by Phil Moran a.k.a. OKIE D ) BAND MEMBERS: Vince Coy - guitar / Kenny Pease - keys / Larry Kuentz - voc / Charlie Kuenel - bass / Vince Rakowitz - drums. Phil writes: Except for the bass player, these guys went to Edison HS in SA. They were a Sam Kinsey favorite because of their straight nice guy image. Relatively blase repertoire except for some Deep Purple tunes that COY and PEASE really nailed. I heard that Kenny Pease was killed in a car wreck (73' or 74') on his way to or from an out of town college. ML writes: Vince Coy would later play with Phil Moran in the band HEIRONYMOUS, then with me in the 2nd edition of OVERLOAD. Larry Kuentz would go on to become a country musician around the area. His vocals greatly improved over the years. (Contributed by John Arevalo) JA writes: "I stumbled upon your website and felt I had to drop in a note or two. I was the other guitarist in Clear before they added a keyboardist upon my exit. We used to play practically all of Wishbone Ash's repertoire. I moved to Austin shortly after that and worked with Andy Reil in a band called Reality. We worked along side Stevie Ray's bands in Austin's Eastside blues bars. We played for beer and tacos back then. I then toured the "chittlin circuit" with the Bobby Byrd Revue. He was known as James Brown's right hand man and he penned some of JB's big hits. I then moved back to SA and worked with Frank Rodarte in a band called Texas Roach. We almost got signed by Atlantic when the band split up over money problems. (thanks Frank!) I moved to Southern California in the mid 70s and soon joined the Righteous Brothers Band. I toured with them for 7 years. I moved back to SA in 1989 and worked with several local bands and then formed my own band called simply, Arevalo. We played the heavier classic rock and more eclectic tunes by Toto, Deep Purple and Pink Floyd. After seeing the how the local SA scene was a major struggle for survival I moved back to California. I was a Jefferson High student in the 60s. " (Contributed by Fernando) F writes: "Kenny Pease actually drowned in an outing accident up in Austin after graduating from the University of Texas. Larry Kuentz died about three years ago." (Contributed by Ron Frei) RF writes: "Stumbled onto your web site. Great info about "the day. I went to Edison and graduated in 1972. Played with Larry Kuentz and the Clear guys after Coy left. This was in 1975. Vince Coy moved onto bigger things so Kuentz asked for me to try out. Once the dust settled it took me and Larry Horowitz to fill the shoes of Coy. In 1975 we had a gig in Laredo Texas on a Sunday night. I had a test at St. Mary's U the next morning. Kuentz told me go to the gig or leave the band. I went the school route."

CLEARFOLK - (Contributed by Pat Hood) BAND MEMBERS: Rick Carver - guitar,voc / Pat Hood - bass,voc / Drums - ? / 2nd guitar - ? . (Contributed by Hunter Harrison) HH writes: "Clearfolk drummer: Steve "T-Bone" Bland, Bass: Steve Miller (I think)" (Contributed by Steve Miller) SM writes: "Clearfolk Update: I was not a member of this band." (Contributed by Robin Klause Bland) RKB writes: "Hi...I was there... 30 years ago... Clearfolk began between Rick Carver, and Steve "T-Bone" Bland, James Lampley, who Pat Hood later replaced, (Pre-Heyoka days - Hey Pat! Miss 'ya dude and your "Wooden Birds"!) and Mark Weber while the guys were still in school. Not to long after I met the guys out of Churchill, Rick was opening for and playing Shawn Phillips, blowin' folks away with his voice. The Group was managed by Karl Wigaman (Now residing in Grapevine and designs computer network systems for major companies); T-Bone left Clearfolk and moved on to pursue a music degree, and played with allot of guys, and allot of styles (Jazz, Country, Classical and Rock; played with Jumbo, Oh So Good, Frenchie Burke, aka Leon Bourque & Bobby Beal, to just name a few. (Currently he works as a stand-in drummer on short notice for just about anyone who needs a drummer in a pinch.). When Byron Spears joined Clearfolk and took over as drummer, Pat Hood was added and Clearfolk's popularity grew because their vocal harmonies were so tight. Toward the end of our high school days, this guy named Steven Allen Griffiths shows up from New Jersey and is enthralled with these "kids" (10 years his junior). The 1st time he saw them was at the Armadillo Races at Hemisphere....We hooked up 2 weeks later, at the Rhapsody Street Club and he came "home" to meet the band. (Rhapsody Street was owned by a guy named Bill and who was stylin' at the time with a Rod Stewart haircut). Griffiths (aka HairBall!!) came out specifically to see the group... Gene Coleman was playing the club regular, leading up a band called "Pale White Horse" (for real!), which was the predecessor to Overload. PWH kinda went belly-up and that opened the gig up for Clearfolk. That started the idea in Griffiths' head for Beggar's' Banquets in Helotes. Out at Villareal's Ice House the show went on with the mission to give original musicians a venue to play their stuff that the club scene clientele just would not pay for or allow to be heard, and there were lots of really great guys out there trying to make it...So, for 3 days in August, over a six year period, the culmination of the previous year's work of promoting and networking came together. with Griffiths leading the vision, Victor Rapanotti (R.I.P.) caught the spirit and provided sound for five of the six years. My Mom, RuthE, and I provided time, office administration, printing food shelter and what ever it took to make the show work, with the help of a lot of other people. It was always about sharing the good stuff, the fellowship and given every body a chance to play what they had created. A lot of people did not understand the spirit of the Banquets, and that was the ultimate demise of them, that and cash flow when the unscrupulous took the gate meant for the players. We booked Too Smooth, Sweetwood Brothers, Ruby Falls Blues Band, Nasty Habit, Heyoka, Overload, (Gene Coleman currently owns Alamo Sound in Garland, TX...and that's a whole 'nother story as to how, after 20 years, he walked into me by chance while I was working at Kinko's and what he's doing!), and "Wild Man" Ray Liberto, and lots & lots of other guys...some showed up to play, some did not. It's now 30 years later and this past March 2004, I married my friend, T-Bone. Griffiths, now known as HairBall!! is in the Sarasota/St. Pete area of Florida, is widely respected for his technical expertise in Community Theater, acts, gigs solo & has recorded with group called "Scheister". Yes, the guys and I still stay in touch. Mark Weber currently plays drums with the Mo-Dels, and Byron found the Lord, gave up drugs and is the music minister at Faith Outreach International (he's got Christopher Cross' old sound board from "the day"!)...and boy does God's House rock with joy! Rick Carver continues to attempt to record privately while fighting health issues. These guys were my "brothers", up late into the night at my mom's, jammin' and writin' ... we are tied in spirit, and more." Catch the Photos HERE

CLEARTONES - (Contributed by Mike Workman) MW writes: "Aug92-Aug02: Charlie Traeger approached me when I was sitting in down at Dick's and asked me to join with him. We formed the Cleartones to do mostly weddings and functions (hardly any clubs) and we have been through a number of musicians in these 10 years. And I can't remember their names. You can find the currently lineup at http://www.cleartones.com . I am upgrading the website, so the first page doesn't draw very well. Will be better in a week or so."

THE COBRAS (See photo HERE) - Rhythm & Blues based outfit based out of Austin. (Contributed by Steve Lewis) SL writes: " Unfortunately, Jr. Medlow of the Cobras died at home in Lubbock: Cancer claimed the life of rhythm 'n' blues vocalist Larry "Jr." MedlowWilliams on April 17, 1997." (Contributed by Max Thrailkill) MT writes: "On the memorial page you list Jr Medlow's Band as the Cobras. I went to High School with Larry back in Lubbock. I know that Larry had several bands. He sang for the Cobras right after SRV left to form Double Trouble. Jr. Medlow's last band was called Jr. Medlow and Tornado Alley. They played in SA a couple of times. I think the last time might have been at the Bowie Street Blues Fest in 95 or 96."ML: visit Steve Lewis's website at: http://www.hyperindex.com/srl/

COLD STEEL CANDY - (Contributed by Ernest Cruz) EC writes: "On Cold Steel Candy, I remember that band being fronted by Donald Kolonik; not sure if last name is spelled correctly, Bill Huedepohl on drums, Jackie Hancock on bass and Steve ? on guitar. Donald's grandmother had this hair salon on Hackberry St. and this was where they held rehearsals. The guys were from the Highlands High School area. Donald used to go to high school wearing these extravagant outfits and would definitely turn heads since he looked like a rock star. After their break-up Bill & Jackie put another band together called Lynx which did well for a while. Donald moved to California but not sure if he continued the field. Jackie moved to Dallas and I don't think he ever pursued this field either. Bill went on to other projects here in San Antonio such as Roller, Ground Zero and is currently with Seven Layer Dip."o info yet

PATSY COLEMAN / BUBBA BROWN - (Contributed by Larry Patton) LP writes: "Bubba Brown was a respected songwriter from San Antonio after having one of his songs recorded by Roger Miller, he had several songs recorded by major artists after that. One of the most laid back souls on the planet. Patsy Coleman was a dead ringer vocally for Linda Ronstadt. The two of them had a band together and also lived together for many years around S.A. They had most of the best country players in the area in their band at one time or another. They had the house band gig at The Town Crier Club for a long time and were a big draw in the area all thru the 70's and into the 80's."

THE COMMANDS - (Contributed by Vic Perez) VP writes: "The Commands with their smash hit "No Time For You" that was recorded at Randolph AFB as this group was stationed there, hence their name the Commands after Air Training Command(Randolph Air Force Base)."

CONES SISTERS - (Contributed by Mike Workman) MW writes: "Jan90-Oct90: I played with the Cones Sisters band at the Holiday Inn Airport. We never had a name, but a hell of a group! Billy Staggs on guitar, Dan Dreeben on drums, Jerry Fields on bass, and me. Carmen Bryant sat in with us for a few weeks here and there."

CORNBREAD - ( Contributed by Phil Moran a.k.a. OKIE D ) BAND MEMBERS: Steve Baxter - bass / Cliff Oliver - guitar / ?? - drums / ?? - keys / Mike - vocals. ML writes: This was a band consisting mostly of Alamo Heights area guys. Played local cover songs and did local gigs like the Mule Stall as well as others. Good band just short lived. (Contributed by Cliff Oliver) Cliff writes: "Cornbread just had two Alamo Heights guys, me and Steve Baxter. Our singer was Mike, and drummer was what's his name, came from the Chayns..."

THE COSMIC ARMADILLOS - (Contributed by Lee Adams) BAND MEMBERS: Robert Adams-bass,voc / Lee Roy Adams-Drums,voc / Jeff McCarley-lead guitar /Val Hernendez-Guitar,voc. Lee writes: "This band was an early seventies group (73 -75'). Even though we were minors we played a lot of nightclubs in S.A. as well as outlying towns. The music was a mixture of southern rock and country (which was popular in that time) with some original music. The band was tight and we had lots of fun."

COUPE DEVILLE - (Contributed by Jimmy Rose) JR writes: "I joined Asleep at the Wheel and played with them for awhile then joined up with a band called Coupe Deville with Brint Anderson (who now plays with George Porter ( Meters)), T.P., Tom Beresford, Rick Casual"s brother, and Wayne Harvey from Austin. We went on tour with Doctor John for about 6 months as his band. Great times. I now live in Houston and Play with Earl Gilliam, a 67 yr old piano player who used to work with Joe Guitar Huges who recently past away. Earl is a blast to play with."

THE CRAZE - (Contributed by Dennis Shows) DS writes: "I was in this band, it had been going since about 80, i guess, by some school friends from New Braunfels. I was in it from 85 to 87. Just a weekend party band. We played stuff from that time, INXS, Tommy Tutone, Bryan Adams, and some stuff from the 60's too, Louie Louie, Wild Thing. We played at the Prickly Pear a lot, and did a few outrageous frat parties in Austin! This was the line up. Ken Brazle: gtr, keys, vocals. Mark Mendez: lead vocals. Loren Crow: lead guitar, vocals. Dennis Shows: lead guitar, vocals. Carl Morgan: drums, vocals. Will Willard: bass, vocals."

CROSSFIRE - ( Contributed by Bill Lieber ) Bill writes: "I still play around town a little. My forte is rythym and blues but I play all kinds of music. I play at the keyboards and guitar but
my main instrument is harmonica. I play with a band called Crossfire....mainly do private gigs ....weddings ....corporate stuff. The money is definitely better."

CROSSOVER - ( Contributed by Rick Linn ) BAND MEMBERS: Dickie Loos - voc, guitar,fiddle, pedal steel / Rick Linn - keys, guitar, voc /Duane Klaus - lead guitar / James Brandesky - voc,bass, guitar / Alan Zidek - voc, Hammond organ /Tooter Ripps - voc, guitar / Pat Estrada - voc / PhilKelman - bass / John Damaini - drums, voc / ScottWilliams - voc, drums'75 to '82. RL writes: "This lineup was the longest running edition of Crossover. Crossover was a large band with the ability to play many different musical styles to include R&B, MOR and country, but specialized in contemporary rock and pop, covering many LynardSkynard, Rolling Stones, Eagles, Motown and Van Halen tunes faithfully note for note, but could also play the old country dance hall tunes with the authentic sound of Bob Wills. The band almost exclusively played the South Texas dance hall circuit, attracting 1,000 or more attendance at dances every Friday and Saturday nights for its entire run. Locally,Crossover played regularly at the old Randy's on Bandera Rd and Blue Bonnet Palace. There were only a select few bands that music lovers and dances would support in that circuit and Crossover was one of those few. This band featured Dickie Loos, who could play just about any instrument that has ever been made. This was the ultimate party band playing in a dance hall setting. Several other musicians passed through the Crossover years, most notably Vince Villastrigo,who replace Rick when he moved to Houston. After his Crossover stint, Vince went on to a successful music career on the East Coast. Other notable musicians passing through the band were Melody Ackerman on guitar (man, can she play!) and Peggy Keener (wife of Small World's Kyle Keener) on lead vocals. Peggy had a beautiful voice. Crossover parted ways in '82 primarily due to several of the members graduating from college and going their separate ways. Dickie and Scott went on to form Firefox, which became a very successful party/bar band in the mid-late 80's."

CROSSROADS SOUTH - (Contributed by Lin Thomson) LT writes: "Were you familiar with Crossroads South? I think they were out of Fort Worth. We're talking late '70s to early '80s. A good cover band - they had a real tight version of "Waiting for the Bus/Jesus Just Left Chicago". I first saw them at a fraternity kegger up at SWTSU in San Marcos in 1978, then in San Antonio at the Razzle Dazzle and the Rock Saloon. I didn't see them listed on your websight (which is very possible given the task of chronicling the Texas music scene)."

CROSSTOWN TRAFFIC - (Contributed by Ron Frei) RF writes: "Another SA band was Crosstown Traffic 1973-1974. We'd practice in a garage on the east side of SA on Edgar street. I remember hauling a Marshall half stack in the back seat of my 1968 Camaro. I lived on the northside, thats how I got the bands name (apologies to Hendrix). Wrote a song back then called "Edgar Street Blues". We'd have all day concerts in this guys back yard. Had a stage and everything."

CRYSTAL WINTER - ( Contributed by OKIE D ) Bob Ocampo - guitar,voc / Eddy Ocampo - drums,voc / Ricky Rodriguez - bass / Paul Getty - guitar / Phil Moran - voc. Okie-d writes: CRYSTAL WINTER (74') was a group of young guys from Edison HS. A little bit stiff but fairly competent nonetheless. The band was well under way when Eddy broke his shoulder, so they hired me to sing. Thanks to older brother Bob, they pulled off a surprisingly nice version of "Reeling in the years". (Contributed by Bob O'Campo) BO writes: "Update on Crystal Winter by Bob O'Campo: Rick Rodriguez passed away almost ten years ago. Don't know what happened to Paul Getty. Brother Ed and his son are DJ'ing around town and Ed also has a jewelry business. Bob is in the insurance claims industry and is one of your "good neighbors". Just a note, Bob's (guitarist) son, Michael, has carried on the tradition. His band "Lifter" is currently in the studio producing their second CD. Their first CD was self produced and they have now been signed by an Indie label. Their website is lifterrocks.com. Wouldn't we have had fun with a website back in the day....... .Our favorite (bands) were Zeppelin, Black Sabbath and later the Doobie Brothers. I remember our big night was when we opened for Oz KaNoz. Anyway, I still wish we could have played together longer. I do fondly remember the band Meadow ....seems they had a great blues guitarist......and a wailin' lead vocalist. Great site Mike....Thanks for the blast from the past." (Contributed by Ron Frei) RF writes: "I worked with Crystal Winter, Replacing Paul Getty for a short time 1973."

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DANCE REGINA - Dallas Band - See Photo HERE. ML writes: "I had the chance to catch this outfit out at Wizards here in Dallas. Great band. They have their own niche in this area that sets them apart. These guys (&gals) make use of all the latest tricks in computerized gizmos to create a non stop sweaty dance fest for the audience. In addition to each members main instrument each has their own synth and the night is spent switching and moving without ever skipping a beat. Out front on main vocals is Kaila Brasell who also does a mean guitar and keys. Her voice is rich and reminds me of the sound of Christine McVie from Fleetwood mac. Kaila's stage presence is energetic with grinds and bumps as she belts out the songs. The guitarist named John Inman does his share of blazing guitar and I'm sure he acts as the eye candy for the ladies. Allen Mouradian is the rock solid back beat on drums and one of the best in the area. Bobby R is the unchallenged electronic wiz of the band handling the wall of synths and computers. I'm sure his uncanny resemblance to Rod Stewart complete with haircut is no accident. Ok... yes I like this outfit and I will be checking them out again. Dance on! Visit the bands website HERE .

DANSIR - (Contributed by Geoff Lupton) GL writes: "Acoustic groups such as Dansir and John David and William .....evolved into the beginnings of Black Rose. (Contributed by Frank Longobardi) Frank writes: "The last I remember of Dansir, was the group with Steve Gott on Bass guitar, Danny ? on Vocals, Jimmy ? on Drums, & Charlie Phelps on Guitar. I think there was another player, but I don't know his name. Originally, they were an all acoustic act, playing at places like Maggie's on San Pedro. Class Act! Later, they hooked up with a drummer (Jimmy) to do more of the dance clubs. That's really all I know about them."

DAVE DELUXE AND THE SNEAKERS - (Contributed by David Sumners) DS writes: "Dave Deluxe and the Sneakers 1979. An offshoot of Snapshot featuring David Hill on lead vocals and guitar, Don Earl Harding on vocals and guitar, Bill “Bear” Middleton on vocals and lead guitar, Kurt Kammack on vocals and drums, and myself on bass. This was truly a singers band, four part harmonies that would just blow you away."

THE DELL-KINGS - (Contributed by Steve Denney) SD writes: "Led by ace tenor saxman Frank Rodarte. A smoking R&B combo; '50s and '60s rock and R&B, with lots of Tex-Mex and Latin funk. Went through many incarnations over the years. The one I was in (around '79-80) included Frank Rodarte (sax/vocals), Butch Denney (guitar/vocals), Steve Denney (bass/vocals), Victor Montez (guitar/vocals), Bruce (keys), and a rotating cast of drummers. Great band to cut my musical teeth in; played lots of good old R&B stuff like Fats Domino, Lloyd Price, Little Richard. Frank had worked a lot with the Garibay brothers (Los Blues and other bands), and I got to meet a lot of really good musicians from that circle - West Side Horns Rocky Morales, Al Luna, many others. Favorite story: We played a Low Rider Festival at the Convention Center once, and happened to meet Dusty Hill from ZZ Top, who actually had a car entered in the show. Butch asked Dusty, "So what are the chances of making it big in rock & roll?" and Dusty replied, "There aren't any. You got a joint?"

DELTA-RYDE (See photo HERE) - (Contributed by John Colvin) JC writes: "There's a picker named Johnny Colvin who played with a band called The Konfiguration in'68. The lead singer was Allen (Bubba) Grimm. Johnny played with Guitar Smitty and the tornados in '69 and '70. He and Little Johnny Garza have played together of and on for over 30 years. Johnny Colvin is currently doing vocals harp and guitar for Delta-Ryde."

DAWN, KATHERINE (See photo HERE) - ML writes: "I did a little research after having it pointed out to me the hotbed of talent brewing from the Texas Hill Country region. Turns out there are several artists more than worthy of mention. Several artists such as Katherine Dawn and Ashley Rose are creating quite a buzz in that area. Katherine Dawn is also notable for having worked with a long line of SA players in her long career. Such names as Clay Meyers, the Doyle brothers Jeff and Jerry, Robar Adams, Ric Swanson and many others come to mind. Heads up folks! Katherine has a wealth of info available, including her Bio, CD's & recordings, merchandise, photos and other goodies. Be sure to visit her website at http://www.katherinedawn.com (Contributed by Katherine Dawn) KD writes: "I have some really GREAT nostalgic photos from the late 70's and early 80's. The one of me (in the Gallery) at thirteen was taken by Sam Kindrick. I was working the "Antlers Bar and Restaurant" in Boerne TX every Friday night. Sam was dating the bar maid "Libby". That year I remember well. A fast rise and "stall" to the local music scene fast lane. We "Cypress" opened for Augie Meyers and The Western Head Band , Mo Bandy, Johnny Bush at the Chili Cook-Off. Sam introduced us. My mother took a picture of him at the mic. He just loves that photo. I remember being faint at the site of still to this day THE largest crowd I ever sang too. rumored to be about 3000 people that weekend evening. Sam interviewed us for Action on Augies Bus. To think of it now it was living a dream. To remember how I felt then...we we're just being ourselves and I thought everybody in the music business got a bus. ha! Ha! pure, fearless, expectations."

DENIM - (Contributed by Jimmy Rose) JR writes: "Just a little info, after I left San Antonio. I moved to Austin and played with Denim, Bill Browder, Ricky Mullins, Layton DePenning, David Moerbe. After we broke up Ricky went to work with Stevie Ray."

DER TREMOLOIDS - (Contributed by Steve Denney) SD writes: "Butch Denney (guitar/vocals), Kurt Otto (keys/vocals), Mike Taylor (bass), Barry Littleton (sax), Mark Anderson (drums). Shockingly good cover band that mixed in lots of intricately-arranged originals, with a warped (and very funny) Zappa-esque sense of humor. Never saw them play a gig during which at least one person (usually clutching a Lone Star Longneck) didn't say something to the effect of, "What the &^$&$ IS this crap?" I always thought of that as a compliment. Great original tunes like "Mineral Wizard", "Flagrant Violation of my Teenage Love", "Barry Rides Again", "Do the Motor Mount", and the ever-popular "Ballad of Lungy Rodriguez and Patty O'Schwartz."

DIESEL (See photo HERE )- (Contributed by Hunter Harrison) HH writes: "Had some friends in a band called Diesel that played around in the 1972-1975 time frame. Deisel: Drums: John Nutt, Guitar: Greg Van den Dries,Bass: Steve Miller, 2nd guitar: (can't remember the name)" (Contributed by Steve Miller) SM writes: "Diesel: Here is the correct band member list: Byron Spears (guitar),Steve Kelfer (guitar and vocals), John Nutt (drums), and Steve Miller (bass). We played in our high school years from 73 to 75, from being a Canteen regular to high school dances and everything you can think of in between. Byron and Steve K. are still very much in the music arena. After 20 years we recently all managed to make contact with each other." .

DIVINE, TOM - (Contributed by Bill Lieber) Bill writes: ""The last few times I have seen them (Bepko Santos & Rose) ..who should show up supporting them, but someone that you probably knew in the old days ......Tom Divine! You probably remember his song "Free My Soul Again" (I guess thats the name of the song). He's a real good guy - probably a mentor to a
lot of us. Talk about country rock and cross ountry/folk/ballads .... he's the man!"

DOGMAN & THE SHEPHERDS/ NEAL BLACK & THE HEALERS - (Contributed by Janet Walden) JW writes: "Starting as Dogman & The Shepherds around 1980ish, Neal Walden aka Neal Black, Gary Walden and Rene Lopez played the local club circuit for many years. With hits like "I don't get the blues when I'm stoned", and "Jail in San Antone" the band was highly requested by bar owners and patrons alike as well as having enormous airplay in the United States.After years of playing in San Antonio and touring the rest of the country as well as a few band member changes along the way, Neal decided to head to New York. The Dogman & The Shepherds music that Neal had written and recorded was being pirated by a local idiot so Neal had to change the name of the band. His project was now known as "Neal Black & The Healers". He also hooked up with many famous blues artists such as John Sebastian, Chuck Berry, Johnnie Johnson, Papa John Creach and too many more to mention. He performed at the Woodstock 20th anniversary, Nottodden Blues, Montreaux Blues, and many other festivals throughout the world. With more than 10 albums out including a Polygram Compilation along with Bo Diddley, Ian Moore, Chuck Berry, Johnny Winter, etc, Dixie Frog Records, Flying Fish / Deluge, and more, and huge success throughout Europe, United States and Mexico Neal Black is one of San Antonio's success stories. Check out his web page for more and download some of his music... Enjoy! http://members.tripod.com/neal_black ."

DOUBLE BARREL - ( Contributed by Rick Linn ) BAND MEMBERS: Danny Clark - voc, guitar / James Brandesky - bass, voc / Buddy Reininger- lead guitar / Rick Linn - keys, voc / Pete Sengle -drums, voc '84 to '88. RL writes: "This lineup was the longest running edition of Double Barrel, started by Danny Clark, who was an aspiring songwriter. This group specialized in contemporary country, covering songs as faithfully to the originals as possible and was equally at ease with all styles of music. Double Barrel's sound was good enough to earn them many gigs opening up for well known country acts to include John Conlee, Steve Wariner, Gary Morris, and the Bellamy Brothers. Double Barrel would do 1 or 2 original tunes every set, all written by Danny. The lead guitarist Buddy is a well known guitarist in South Texas who can play both conutry and rock licks with ease. The band eventually broke up after Danny and Rick decided to pursue other interests. Pete moved to Corpus Christi and now devotes his musical talents in Christian ministry. Buddy continues to play with various groups in South Texas. James passed away from Bone Marrow Cancer about 5 years ago. James' brother John Brandesky is an extremely talented multi-instrumentalist who has quite a legacy in the SA and South Texas music scene."

DOYLE TWINS - (Contributed by Glenda Brock) See photo HERE . GB writes: "Jeff Doyle is staying very busy these days - he is currently involved in the following groups and projects. Lead Guitarist/some vocals - TEXAS RADIO. Lead Guitarist/some vocals - NSomnia - (Sunday evenings at Snoops along with Val Mora of Bamboo and Jason Brooks of Driven Zero). Lead Guitarist/some vocals - Our Religion (Americana Band) currently working on 2nd CD. Permanent member of the "Tuaca Whores" base band (open jam) every wednesday and thursday nights at Make My Day - The Tuaca Whores band members are: Jeff Doyle, Vince Garcia, Randy Adair, Craig Whittiker and Bobby Beal. Lead Guitarist - Pignation - (look to find them opening for nations acts real soon) Other members in that band are Chris Watkins on Bass Guitar and, of course, Jerry Doyle on drums. Lead Guitarist - Nightwork - (Nightwork is about to go into the recording studio and do a re-issue of their 1986 record with 4 new bonus tracks added)(very popular overseas). Jerry Doyle (current activites includes) - : Drummer - Pig Nation: Drummer - Our Religion. Hope this will help you update the DOYLE TWINS. Thanks... Glenda".

DRUG STORE COWBOYS - BAND MEMBERS: Dub Robinson - guitar,voc / Larry Horwedel -bass / Robert Payne - drums. ML writes: This band was/is SA's country rock trio answer to ZZTop. Dub is a great guitar player in a rock vein with country roots. A mainstay in area clubs for many years. Talented players and nice guys on a personal level. I have a copy of a single they put out. Side A - "Changing Partners" , Side B - "Somebody help me fall out of love". Listed credits include: Bob Mahaffey - steel guitar / Reese Wynan - piano / Backgrn vocs - Judy Price, Lisa Rhodes, Andy Salmon. Producer: Andy Salmon. 1983. on Austin Records. (Contributed by Butch Linam) BL writes: "Howdy from the hill country, there's a long story here if ya have the time, I can tell it to ya, that is if you want to know. The original Drugstore Cowboys.. three teens on the south side of San Antonio, Dub Robinson - guitar vocals,Tom Mckay - bass vocals, Butch Linam - drums . We started writing and playing a long long time ago. I tell ya our first recordings were a little rough. Early days of the cowboys were rough, but we were kickin hind end as a three piece band. Not many people even know of the early days, except those who were in the band. And as far as i know Dub and Butch are the only ones around who know the original band and how difficult it was back then. I was surfing around, never found any mention of the original band or the songs we recorded. we were mixing rocking beats way before Willie Nelson had a clue what hit him.crowds kept saying to play the songs like the records.but a little slip here and there in the songs is what was happening. There's a reason things happened. but I can't tell ya.. ya just wouldn't believe it.." (Contributed by Ray Wilburn) RW writes: "I joined the drugstore cowboys from 90' to 91' while signed to the Misty record label. That line up consisted of Dub Robinson - guitar/vocals,John Brandeski- keys/vocals(Stardust, Duck soup, etc.) Jeff Long- bass/vocals and me Ray Wilburn- drums/vocals."

CHRIS DUARTE - (Contributed by Ann In Dallas) RockinAnnie writes: "Is San Antonio's own Chris Duarte mentioned on your website? I saw him the other night at Poor David's Pub. His fingers move FASTER than ever and his new material is GREAT! He said his new CD should be out in August."

DUSTY ROADS - (Contributed by Fernando) F writes: "I was into jazz although I played guitar and pedal steel during the 'country rock' era with a group called Dusty Roads (Larry Kuentz- guitar /vocals, Charlie Kuhnel Bass/vocals, Fernando Esparza guitar/pedal steel guitar/ vocals, Vincent Rakowitz drums) we played at places like Gasoline Alley, the Place Next Door, but mostly did more with the military base clubs. I knew Vincent Coy, Kenny Pease and those Edison guys through Charlie, Larry, and Rak. David Wilson would later play drums too. CJ Troilo would sometimes sit in."

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EASTWOOD REVIEW - BAND MEMBERS: This band consisted of main guitarist Chris Holzhaus, Bubba Perron on bass, Laurent Perron on drums, and on occasion Ricky Hernandez - on keyboard. Also, Steve Trowbridge (future bass player for JIVA JIVE ) on equipment duties. Late in the band's tenure Jim Newhouse ( Rachels Children, Augie Meyers, Chris H ) would join on congas and drums. (Thanks to Chris Holzhaus for data) ML writes: The first time I ever saw them was at the Mule Stall in Alamo Heights. Right off Chris was a standout guitarist. The band played blues and it was the real thing. They released an L.P. which included members in the original lineup. The LP did poorly at the time as the music trends of the era left little audience for the blues. (Chris informs me this CD is still avaliable, I'm currently searching the internet for a copy as it contains some great stuff ). Chris and the Perron's eventually went their own separate ways to form other bands around the area. (Contributed by Steve Trowbridge) ST writes: "I saw my name associated with "Eastwood Revue", wow that's really going back. As you probably already know Chris was Best-Man at my wedding just a few years after the Eastwood days. I miss him."

EASY MONEY - (Contributed by Lee Adams) BAND MEMBERS: Rusty Martin -
voc,guitar,mandolin,harp / Bobby Hargarther - Lead guitar / Reggie Hammond - Piano,vol / ?- bass,voc / Lee Roy Adams - drums,voc. Lee writes: "The band started off as a trio. 80'-81'. Rusty, Reggie & a bass player whose name I can not remember. They played for a while in places like Maggie's and Mamma's. Then Rusty brought me (Lee Roy) into the group. I introduced Bobby to the guys a few weeks later and wa la! We were a full fledged band. Rusty Martin was (and is still) one of my all time favorite singers. Very talented. Like the name of the band, the sound was easy listening. Light rock with a flare of jazz this band was one of my favorites to play in. All the musicians in this band were well polished players. Like Reggie Hammond, a child prodigy, this guy played on a piano that was literally held together with a piano dolly and straps. He made it sound like a baby grand. Bobby Hargarther a product of Jackie King Studio (and a lot of natural ability) gave the band the jazz touch with his guitar. It's to bad we are not still playing together. Rusty is still around somewhere playing I'm sure." (Contributed by Roy Rousseau) RR writes: "Mike. Great job on band info. My name is Roy Rousseau. I played guitar with Easy Money. Rusty Martin, myself, and Gene Haynes on bass were the original trio. 80-81. We had a honky-tonk piano player named Reggie Dale join later. I heard that Reggie lost a couple of fingers in a skill saw accident. Not sure where he is today. I still see Rusty occasionally, sadly the last couple of times were to play songs for his two older brothers memorial services, Richard Martin, and David Martin. We played little league together, coached by thier father Herb. It was an honor for Rusty to contact me after all these years to celebrate his brothers passing."

STEVE EARLE (See photo HERE) - (Contributed by Larry Hall) Larry writes: "This guy is a huge talent, but he has that ol' San Antonio propensity for messing up his life. He and C.W., Our bassist in Mesquite, used to hitchhike back and forth to Nashville before he made it big. He is definitely a San Antonio product." (Contributed by Danny Cowan) Danny writes: "Here's something you might not have known (or maybe you do): The outlaw country singer Steve Earle was in a couple of my little band aggregations in the early days. He was attending Rogers Jr. High (on the southeast side) for a couple of years and we were big running buddies, jamming and gettin' in to trouble...... Our paths crossed some when I was touring those four years with Augie Meyers & The Western Headband and I talked with him by phone when he started touring with his band The Dukes." (Contributed by Chuck Balcar) CB writes: "My memory of Steve Earle was staying up all night on July 3rd, 1972 sitting on the parking lot of the Kelly Field Drive-in theater for something called IDF I. Steve, my twin, a guitarist named Fred Money, and a girl named "Star" -- remember it was 1972 -- and I drank a case of Strawberry Hill (9 bottles) that my dad had bought us (we were all about 17) and slept maybe an hour after watching lone ranger movies and jamming, then sit through Freddie King, Frieda and the Fire Dogs (Marcia Ball) and Seals and Crofts. That night we must have sang "Bexar County Jail to the tune of Birmingham Jail about six times everytime a new group of stoners would wonder over." (Contributed by Gloria Jauregui) GJ writes: "By the way, that reminds me I went to Holmes High School with Steve Earle. I have some great photos of him in our year book when he was a sophomore in the drama club called the Holmes Players. I remember him sitting on the sidewalk across the street from the high school playing his guitar outside a place called Sunny's similar to the Sac & Pac's in New Braunfels. If I can make some copies would you like me to send them to you? One photo is of him with his guitar." (Contributed by Bubba Henze) BH writes: "I wasn't aware that Steve Earle was from SA. I toured with Mary
Chapin Carpenter in 2001 and Steve Earle opened a lot of those shows. He is an outstanding guy and we fly fished together in Reno."

EDDIE AND THE ALLNITERS - (Contributed by John Ramirez) JR writes: "I'm in two bands but only one is playing - Eddie and the Allniters ... that's Ed Polanco-remember Island? Basically a blues band but a 3 guitar army with Ray Symczyk who also plays accordion, mandolin, and keys; we mix in some Cajun and Tex-Mex. Ed plays good blues harmonica, acoustic and slide. I must say at age 61, I still get the same feeling with all guitars wailing at the end of Watchtower...except now we know to go where the other guys aren't. We have a myspace site that is just getting going ... trying to come up to the times."

EGDON HEATH - (Contributed by Phil Moran) PM writes: "Just a quikkie, (Chris) Geppart band (aka Christopher Cross). 'Egdon Heath' , sort of a Mr. Moose , Oh So Good Band, in
between line-up. Bet I'm the only one who 'members this one!"

ECLECTIC - (Contributed by Don Moore) DM writes: "The Eclectic (1968-1970) came in second at a battle of the bands at Randolph AFB in 1968, and, as a result, obtained a contract with the San Antonio military base clubs, as well as the USO. Ricci Ware, Sr. was one of the judges, the others fade in memory. The Shades of Night won first place. One of the judges told the band that they would have won first place if they had all been dressed alike, which was the fad at the time. The Elcectic were Jorge Parra (drums), Baxter Wolfe bass/vocals), Mike Smith (lead guitar), Guy Stubbs (guitar/vocals), Don Moore (vocals), with short stints from Kent Carpenter (organ/vocals) and Billy ???? (lead guitar). The band enjoyed the military circuit and only deviated from it twice once to play at teen canteen when it was just off Bandera and another time to play a private party in La VIllita. Favorite songs included "7 and 7 Is," "Little Red Book," "House of the Risiing Sun," "Summer in the CIty," "My Generation," "Like a Rolling Stone," "Gloria," "Under My Thumb," "Get Off My Cloud," "Heart of Stone," "You Gotta Run," and "Tired of Waiting." The band had one original, "Lisa," written by singer, Don Moore. The Eclectic did not ever record, and they broke up in 1970, with a short revival as the "Society of the White Rose."

THE 13TH FLOOR ELEVATORS - (Contributed by Bob Galindo) ML writes: This is by far one of the most legendary of the South Texas area musical groups. Damned near icons of the region. Since I was to young to speak of this group with any authority, I approached Bob Galindo for his memoirs on the subject. Bob's brother Danny was a bass player in the Elevators, so I knew Bob could add some trivia. The following page was kindly contributed by Bob Galindo for all to share. Click HERE to see Bob's Elevator page of trivia. (Contributed by Jay Cox) Jay writes: "Here's a weird Roky Erickson story for you: Our band did a weekend gig in Houston, backing up Roky Erickson and a couple of the International Artist big dogs. As we were about to record, we were in the dressing room getting dressed and Roky was starring at himself in the mirror. A fly started buzzing around him and he intently watched it as it flew around him. It landed on the mirror in front of him and he starred at it for the longest time. All of a sudden he spoke to and for the fly...he said in a high weird voice, " Hi Roky" and he responded in his regular voice, "Hi Fly". It was so weird, but he was pretty much brain-fried at this time of his career. I heard he was doing better...hope so." (Contributed by 60sMan) 6man writes: "I once had to score for a show with the Elevators down in Padre Island. It took some old felonious connections to find enough weed in Corpus to get that many people high on such short notice. John Ikes and Stacy were really friendly and got stoned with us, but Tommy wanted to make the Elevators a "closed" experience and kept Roky at a distance. That all changed later."

EMERALD - (Contributed by Ernest Cruz) EC writes: "Emerald was another band that was a great show band performing original music. I only know that John Sauceda formerly of The Sweetwood Brothers Band was on lead vocals, Mike Mullins on bass and Jerry Doyle on drums. I don't remember the guitarists' names. These guys went on to open for big name acts one I recall being Eddie Money. John married and moved to Boston, Mike is still around; I occasionally run into him at some clubs and Jerry is with the Bad Boys."

EMERALD CITY BAND - ML writes: One of the major dance bands in the Dallas area. These guys have been around since the early eighties and are still a major draw in the area. I've seen them several times at Clubs like Memphis but also at a few local special events around the area. This is a very large band, around 12 members or so, and they fill up the stage when they perform. I have to say, they do kick ass, and with such a variety of instruments in the band they can play just about any type of music which usually consists of very danceable current cover tunes. Band members include: Deno Taglioli -Vocals,Percussion/ Kenny Evans -Drums,Vocals/ Dwayne Heggar -Electric,Key Bass/ Dean Columbaro -Keyboards/ Lynn Gamez -Vocals/ Jennifer Smith -Vocals/ Adam Palma -Guitar,Vocals/ Dave Butler -Trombone/ Jim Foster -Trumpet,Flugel/ Ken McGill -Trumpet/ Clay Pritchard -Saxophone/ Kazuki Magashima -Bari Sax . Check out the website at: http://www.emeraldcityband.com .

EMPIRE - no info yet

THE END - (Contributed by Joe McDuffie) Joe writes: "Ive been "hacking" a guitar since about 1965,out on the southside of San Antonio. Anyway, summer of 1983, I hooked up with Stan Teel, one of the original members of "The End" and we revived the name. Personnel were Stan Teel/Bass,Gordon Hasdorf/guitar vocals,Bigboy/drums(cant remember his real name) and Joe McDuffie/lead guitar/vocalist.We had some fun out at Ferdies on 281 and a few other spots like Marty's Veranda. One time some of us flew a small plane to the gig out there and landed in that field south of Ferdie's.We were so heavy taking off that we almost clipped those power lines by 281 !!! Stan runs a private detective agency now,and I think Gordon(Butch) is a Real estate broker. I went to work for Continental Airlines as a pilot in 85.Rock on !!!"

ESCHER - (Contributed by Scott Marbrito) SM writes: "Our old band ,Escher, played in front of the public only possibly 8 or 10 times. All of our music was original except for “Hideaway” by Freddie King. Alas, my old band was not in the list of bands but one of our members is there: Mike Kropp!! I had heard that Mike was still playing but have not seen or spoken to him in at least 25 years. I used to have a midnight blue fender jazz bass that was stolen (I still feel physical pain when I mention that). I’ll call another guy, Joe Marshall, that was in our band for dates if he can remember & get the info to you."

EXCALIBUR - BAND MEMBERS: Phil (from NY) - guitar / Sam Davis - bass / Dan Dreeban - drums / Phil Miller - keys (Contributed by Danny Cowan) Danny writes: "I was also the guitarist in Excalibur for a good while, I was the only guitarist for awhile and then the original cat came back and the group had two guitar players. Dan Dreeban and myself layed down some powerful mojo. I added some blues funk into their Yes type mind set. We did damn good Allman Bros. stuff with excellent keyboards from Phil Miller. I still have a tape from a high school gig." (Contributed by Steve Wisnoski) SW adds: "When I played with Excaliber and Razz we used to do some shows with different groups, Heyoka, Nitzinger, Navasota."

EXCEPTIONS - (Contributed by Ron Frei) RF writes: "I currently play original and cover music in a band called the Exceptions here in SA. Sometime we use the name Bad Neighbor, depending."

DENNY EZBA - (Contributed by Tom Kinsey) TK writes: "Denny Ezba and the Goldens was a popular San Antonio group around 1959-62 or so, and produced at least one record. Lead singer was Denny Ezba and (among others) included Harvey Kagen, Marty Kagen, Jack Trinklebach, Rocky Hill, Danny Segovia, and Tom Kinsey. There was much cross over of personnel Sammy Vaughn and the Starmarks, so some of these may have been with only the Starmarks."

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FEEL, GENE COLEMAN AND - (Contributed by Spencer Drake) SD writes: "The name of the Band: Gene Coleman and "Feel" This band was originally a trio featuring former Swiss Movement drummer Gene Coleman, former Union Jack lead guitarist Butch Denny and bassist Joe Sarli. In early September of 1970 former Union Jack rhythm guitarist Spencer Drake joined the group. The group played mostly around SA and the south Texas area. Around the first of October of 1970 Gene Coleman moved out of town and was replaced by the former drummer of the Outcasts, Ricky Wright. At that point the band became known simply as "Feel". Although the group was only together until the spring of 1971, they had one heck of a lot of fun playing some wild rock -n-roll gigs in this area!!! Among them was a series of "wood-z's" which were organized by a small group of students at SA college. These "wood-z's" were held off fm 3009 near IH-35 as well as the old Domino Ranch off Moursand Blvd and south loop 410. One of the band's specialties was taking 50's rock-n-roll songs and playing them with a 60's sound. Spencer Drake left the group in March of 1971 to join the Air Force and the rest of the guys evenutally went on to other things. As mentioned earlier, "Feel" was not together for a long period of time but you would be hard-pressed to find a rock-n-roll band with a tighter sound and 4 guys who had more fun at what they were doing!!"

THE FEEL (See photo HERE) - (Contributed by Robin Overall) BAND MEMBERS: Robin Overall-guitar,voc / Ralph Doelling-bass,voc / Steve Krugman-drums.1998' Robin writes: "Released an album entitled "Shadowlands" in 1998. The single "Looking For An Angel" went into the national charts (Top 40) first week of release and received air play in 33 markets across the U.S. and in Europe. The album will be re-released in 2001 as a Robin Overall solo album under a new record/publishing deal and will be followed by a second solo record entitled "Firebird". The band will be touring in the coming year in the SW and in Europe. RO adds: Brian Goldberg did a few sessions with Ralph Doelling and I in Austin when I started putting together The Feel, but his schedule did not allow him to be involved when it came time to cut the album. He plays in a band out of Houston that features a 50s style piano player/singer named Ezra Charles (very Jerry Lee Lewis). A really great drummer, always a pleasure to play with him."

FIVE CANADIANS - (Contributed by Don Moore) DM writes: "I was surprised not to find them in the list. I remember them from the late 60s. Louie Stelecky (sp?) was their lead singer." (Contributed by Doug Ryniker) DR writes: "If Don was surprised not to find the Five Canadians listed, there's a good reason for it, and I guess it's time for the truth to come out. We hated the name, and didn't use it when we played in Texas. Not one of the dozens of musicians I've worked with in South Texas since then knows I played with that band. In fact, my wife didn't even know it until it started popping up on the internet, and we were the cover story of the first edition of a punk magazine called "Brown Paper Sack", which claimed we were the great-grandfathers of what later became known as "punk music". Apparently there are people who study that kind of thing, and we were surprised to find out that the Five Canadians were considered one of the great mysteries of the genre until publisher Andrew Brown cracked the case. My band-mates and I just got in the habit of avoiding the subject, because we loved Texas and didn't want to be seen as disassociating ourselves from it. In fact, when we played here, we didn't perform any of our own music even though it was on the radio. The original band was called the Hangmen, but producers and managers changed it without our consent in the spring of 1966 in an attempt to market us as being from any place but here. These were the same handlers who changed Bobby Jenkins and the Jades to Rob London and the Rogues. The Five Canadians got good airplay with several originals, "Writing on the Wall" being the biggest. It did well in Canada of all places. I guess if we had really been from Canada, someone would have forced us to call ourselves the Five Texans. The record also did well in the Los Angeles market. I've heard covers made by bands from various parts of the country, so apparently it got around. We toured in the summer of 1966. Tour may not be the right word, as we slept on floors, under-ate, and came home with less money than we had when we started in spite of some live TV and other interesting experiences. I was only 16 at the time, so it was a good education for me. We also got a fair amount of airplay with other originals, "Never Alone", "Don't Tell Me," and a fast version of "House of the Rising Sun" for which Classy Belou and the Orlandos provided a horn section. Our songs have appeared on numerous compilations put together by various pirates, and are better known in Europe than in the US. And no, we never made any money. Writing this was therapeutic. Thanks for letting me come clean after all these years."

FIVE MILLION - (Contributed by Ernest Cruz) EC writes: "Also a few other bands I remember but don't have too much information on were Five Million who I recall had this great guitar player named Julian Dominguez who was well known for his guitar craftsmanship. Many guitarists would take their instruments to him for repair. His band played stuff by Wishbone Ash, Montrose and Foghat, etc.. I remember going to Julian's house once with a friend who was checking the status of his guitar which was being repaired and walking into this room full of vintage guitars hanging on the wall. That's all I have. Thanks."

THE FLAVOURS - ML writes: "A Dallas area band. These guys have been around since 2002 or so but consists of a group of veterans of the Dallas scene, and then some. They play a mix of music that would please a more oldies style rock crowd, which is to say, not so corporate or commercial variety type band. They can rock out on such tunes from ZZtop and others with a convincing punch. One of the major players is guitarist Dave Hineman who also happens to play with several other Dallas area groups concurrently. A real vet of the area and one of Buddy Magazine's Texas Tornados of Guitar of 2001, He also was/is a member of local acts Solinger and Tres Hombres, Dream On, Metal Shop, Suburban Legend and Comes Alive.! Barbara Jean is the vocalist and keyboardist who originally came from Florida but also played in a Dallas area band called the Crush. A great vocalist and cutie who packs a punch. Breck Shisler is the bands drummer and was also a local vet from the local bands Decline and Aerial. Rounding out the lineup is Bob Prince. Those of you who may remember "Quazi and The Motos" might remember Bob." Check out the website at: http://www.theflavours.com .

FLASH - See photo HERE & HERE - BAND MEMBERS: Chris Geppert - guitar,voc / Dubby Hankins (later replaced by Andy Salmon)- bass,voc / Keith Rubinstein - keys / Phil Glosserman - drums. (Thanks to Rob Meurer for data) ML writes: This band was a favorite around SA in the late 60's and early 70'. Known primary for Chris Geppert's leadership (Later known as CHRISTOPHER CROSS),other band members were no slouches themselves. Every gig Chris and bandmates would have a wall of amps. At one gig he used 6 Kustom brand cabs with three amp heads spread out to make a long wall. This was in the days when most players had only a single little Fender. Later on, he switched to three Marshall stacks. In the early days he used Rickenbacker guitars, later on he got a Gibson reverse Firebird during his OH-SO-GOOD BAND stint. He and the band used this little gray ford van to get around in. On bass guitar was a guy named Dubby Hankins (later replaced by Andy Salmon) and Dubby always had a wall of amps to match Chris's rig. A Fender bass was his main axe. A great vocalist and bassist. These days Dubby runs a recording studio in the SA area. (Contributed by Phil Moran a.k.a. OKIE D) Phil writes: "Later incarnations of the core members were included in the bands MR. MOOSE featuring Dubby Hankins on bass and Cliff Oliver on guitar and the OH-SO-GOOD BAND featuring Geppert & Dubby Hankins. I seem to recall that Rob Meurer played drums for MR M and OSG. Rob is notable for being the BEST double kick drummer in SA. Earlier, he was the powerhouse rhythm keeper for the VIRGIL FOXX GROUP. Later, he was the piano player on CHRIS CROSS'S albums. Rob also co-writes material on CC CD's. Pretty talented!" (Contributed by Andy Salmon) Andy writes: "I quit The Laughing Kind around 1969 to join Flash, Chris Geppert's band, taking over the bass duties from Dubby Hankins. That was a great band. Chris had some cool tunes and we jammed a lot, often refining the jams into tunes and set pieces. We opened a few shows for acts like Taj Mahal, Steppenwolf, and Leon Russell. After we broke up, I took a gig in a San Antonio night club house band with a guy named Danny Segovia. I took over for Harvey Kagan of the Sir Douglas Quintet. Danny was at one time the lead singer in an early incarnation of the Bubble Puppy - (I was at their first gig in San Antonio!) Chris and Rob Muerer had various groups until we all moved to Austin with the addition of Tommy Davis. We starved for a while, then Chris & Rob got a gig in a Houston band called Heather Black. I went back to San Antonio and played at the Garter on the River with Ricky Hernandez. Chris got me an audition with a guy named Dean Scott in Houston. I played with him until they could get me into Heather Black. This is around 1973-4. We stayed together until the original Christopher Cross band disbanded."

FLASH CADILLAC - (Contributed by Hunter Harrison) No info yet. Comments welcome.

THE FLATLANDERS - (Contributed by Fran Barrineau) FB writes: "I had the unbridled pleasure of seeing the Flatlanders in concert last Wednesday night at the Paradise Lounge in Boston. The crowd was hungry and the boys put out a banquet. Their rendition of Terry Allen's "Gimme A Ride To Paradise" was in itself worth the price of admission. They had everybody rockin' and the heat they generated helped melt the last of winter's gloom. This was the first time I had seen them and I look forward to the next time. They hung out afterwards and were charming and unpretentious, which I would have expected. It was wonderful to see an audience of Yankees whooping and hollering - the lively spirit of the band was infectious and smiles broke out on those solemn northern faces like blue bonnets in a springtime Texas field."

THE FLYING ZIPPERS - (Contributed by Alan voight) AV writes: "Mike, I dont't know if you remember me. I worked with you a few times in the Seventies. I was a sound man and musician [drums& guitar]. I'm still in the business. I have a band called "the Flying Zippers" and a recording studio and sound rental co. called 'Band Camp'. I also worked and helped "San Antonio Sound & Light" get going in the Nineties. I live in New Braunfels with my wife Kim and daughter Angela."

FOCAL POINT - (Contributed by Neka Scarbrough) Neka Scarbrough, Jim Ryan, others?? Neka writes: "I got your site address from my friend, neighbor and former band leader of a band I was in named Focal Point - Jim Ryan." (Contributed by Doug Ryniker) DR writes: "I played drums with Focal Point during most of it's brief existence. Paul Kandera was the guitarist for all but the last few months."

FORCE (See photo HERE) - (Contributed by Pete Galuppo) PG writes: "I was wondering if you know the names of the band members from Force which was from the 1980's and I know one of the guitarist was named Fred but that's all I remember. They were a good band from San Antonio Texas and also wondering if they are getting back together?" (Contributed by Ernest Cruz) EC writes: "I remember the band Force. They were an awesome band consisting of Fred Polanco on bass, and the Mclane brothers - I believe Michael on Drums and William on lead guitar. Also the lead singer's name I cannot remember but I do recall this being a powerhouse band doing anything from Gary Moore to Judas Priest. I remember them winning a Battle of the Bands competition at the Sunken Gardens Theater. I had heard that William had moved to California for a while to pursue a rock n roll dream; but that's the last I've heard from him. A while back I went to visit this buddy of mine who fronts the band Texas Radio and Fred Polanco was there. We jammed for a while. It was good to see him again."

FOXFIRE - (Contributed by Bobby Stoner) BS writes: "I grew up in Woodsboro, about five miles from Refugio. In the mid-70's a group from Victoria called Foxfire showed up. Some of the members painted their faces. They played a kickass version of "Hell Ain't A Bad Place To Be. They freaked the farmers out. We would pull up chairs in front of the band and snort Rush and go crazy. They later changed their name to Chase. I think Bill, the singer, died in Houston a few years ago. Their guitarist was David DeLuna. He was amazing."

FRANKIE MACHINE - (Contributed by Sam Wakefield) SW writes: "Creston Funk (ex-Steve & Infidels member) formed Frankie Machine in Los Angeles in 1999. Signed to Mammoth Records, released album and toured with Stone Temple Pilots, Godsmack, Third Eye Blind, etc."

FREEDOM EXPRESS - (Contributed by Jim Ryan) BAND MEMBERS: Jim Ryan - bass / Butch Denney - guitars / Kurt Otto - keys / Bill Goodman - drums. Jim writes: "Butch was the first guitar player in my band of the early 70's called Freedom Express. We worked the basses and did some private parties and weddings. We played for several years with Kurt Otto on Keys and Bill Goodman on drums. Their were a few female vocalists that came and left and also a short association with Steve Perron (Children) that ended with his untimely death. With Butch and Kurt in the band it was always a party and we had some great times. As the bandleader I was a little stiff for some of their crazy antics but usually rolled with the flow. We had a regular weekend once a month in Laredo at the AFB. There were many insane fantasy trips to boys town were such spirits as Pappa X, Doldo and El Rayo X were born. Butch went on to play with Joker Moon after leaving and Kurt formed his own band for a while before settling in as a MO-DEL for years. I play a few gigs a month with the MO-DEL's now but am mostly retired form the scene."

THE FROZEN FEW -(Contributed by CJ Wilson) MEMBERS: C.J. Wilson-guitar,voc /Jayne Brady-Bass /Randy Fowlkes-Drums(died about 4 years ago). Original and covers. circa '84-87.

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GATZROCK - (contributed by Lin Thomson) LT writes: "Early 70's outfit called "Gatzrock". They were fronted by John Gataz (guitar), Gene Hartman (bass), Mark Rocko (drums), and himself - Rick Sanchez (vocals). ML adds" Both Gene Hartman and John Gataz were also one time members of an earlier outfit called MEADOW which did the Canteen and birthday parties and such. Those guys were decent players."

RANDY GARIBAY - The best info can be found at http://www.allstar-sanantonio.com

GIANT SMILING DOG - BAND MEMBERS: Wink Kelso - voc / Phil Arroyo - guitar,voc / Tommy Davis - guitar / Mike Novak - bass / Kevin "Kid" Conway - drums / David McDavid - sax,horns / Wesley Jameson - trombone / Richard Garcia - sax,flute,trumpet (Later replaced by Les Leonhardt on trumpet). ( Contributed by David McDavid ) David writes: "The name Giant Smiling Dog came from the label on a huge box that Wink Kelso and I found in a back alley behind a toy store near Waikiki Beach. We were playing there in a little dive called The Lemon Tree in the summer of 1970 as Wink Kelso and the Kaleidoscope." ML writes: This band was very popular around SA about 1972. They were a 7 or 8 piece group which featured a horn section and specialized in music by Chicago and Blood Sweat and Tears and the like. They drew large crowds whenever they played and did the music letter perfect from the records. The lead singer was a charismatic fellow named Wink Kelso who I hear went on to Broadway theater type activities later on. I believe the play was called "Alice in Wonderland". I'm sorry to report that Tommy Davis passed away a few years ago. He was a veteran of many bands, well loved and is missed by many. After the band broke up, most of the members went on to form other groups listed on this page. ( Contributed by Chris Holzhaus ) Chris writes: "The very last version of this group was: Phil Arroyo - guitar,voc / Mike Novak -bass,voc / Wink Kelso - vocals / Rick Favela - Drums / Chris Holzhaus - guitar,vocals. The horns were dropped when this last version was organized. It didn't last but 6 months and was the final adventure of the group. I do know Rick Favela was the original drummer." Bill Lieber writes: "I remember Giant Smiling Dog (as well as Pablos Grove) did a great rendition of "Living in the Palace of the King".

GLASS EYE - (Contributed by Fran Barrineau) FB writes: "I saw a band in Tallahassee in the late 1980's from Austin, Glass Eye. I have two of their albums. What ever happened to them? Their music seemed to capture so perfectly the gonzo quality of Texas humor and mind set. I assume they broke up but are any of them playing with a band now? I'd really like to know"

GLASS ONION - (See photo HERE) ML writes: I seem to remember catching this act once at the Mule Stall in Alamo Hgt around 69' or so. If this is the act I remember... they were a 4 piece, bass, gtr, drums and a stand up blond haired singer who wore barber shop striped pants that night. On bass was a guy named Steve Holloway who I had seen in another earlier band as lead guitarist. They did a killer version of the Beatles 'I want you'. (Contributed by David Brigham) DB writes: "Mike, just found your web site. Great job. I was the lead singer for the Glass Onion. The drummer was Alan Cooper (Tiny: see Sweet Smoke), keyboard and touch bass was Gene Villareal, guitar was Oscar Ortega. Steve Holloway did follow on guitar for a short time. We had a great time playing around South Texas, appearing on the bandstand like show "Swingtime" three times and opening for "Spirit" at Municipal Auditorium ( we opened and Shivas Headband played next). I have great memories of playing at Teen Canteen, the Jam Factory and Holiday Inn at Lake McQueney."

GONE CITY - (Contributed by Phil Dalmolin) PD writes: "Back in San Antonio Robert Gomez had a band called Turning Point and had pretty much.......... for a in depth history of the band click HERE to read the story written by Phil Dalmolin.

SPUD GOODALL - See Photo HERE. (Contributed by Corbet) C writes: "Spud Goodall --Has anybody got any stories about him?" ( Contributed by Chris Holzhaus ) Chris writes: "He taught Jackie King, Gaylen Niles and me our first lessons on the guitar." Corbet adds: "Unfortunately the great guitarist Spud Goodall passed away on October 13, 2003. Another great guitarist who deserves mentioning is the San Antonio Queen of Classical Guitar "Leslie Lyon." She teaches at 2-3 colleges in San Antonio, so serious guitarists should sign up for one of her classes. She's amazing!" ML adds: "I saw a post on another site added by Buddy Rouse that Spud was a longtime sideman for Tex Ritter and implies that the cause of death was from cancer."

GRACKEL - ( Contributed by Phil Moran a.k.a. OKIE D ) Brad Bird - gtr,voc / Reese Henry - gtr / Joe ?? - Bass / Rico Sardelli - Drums / Phil Moran - voc,harp. Circa 77'

GRAVEN IMAGE - (Contributed by MD Poole) MD writes: "A band from the 60's called the graven image. The singer was a guy called Alan Monserrat. I think they had family conncections at Ft. Sam Houston....and maybe they went to high school there?"

GRIM REAPER - (Contributed by Rob Meurer,Bob Galindo,& Andrew Brown) RM wrote:
"I knew these guys (The Grim Reapers - they never could decide if it was Reaper or Reapers) Most went to Antonian. Alex was one of my good high school buddies, a very funny guy. We got in trouble together, frequently. Gene Kirby was a grade school buddy of mine. This band got by on enthusiasm...no great players, but quite a conglomerate of humans. Jerry Arnold was a classic nerdy smart kid that got stoned and took a left...then he OD'd. Alex died a few years ago, '92 or '93. Lotsa drinking. I have their single somewhere, too." BG wrote: "Glenn Hobart-bass / Alex kinsel-vocals / Gene Kirby-guitar? / Jerry Arnold-keys / Chester Slimp-drums. By the way, Chester Slimp is an architect in san antonio...he could tell you all sortsa stuff about the grim reaper. Several years ago he videotaped Phil Arroyo and I doing a schtick called "little junior and the giants" - music for macho pigs. but that's another story!" AB wrote: "I pulled the Grim Reaper 45 from the shelf to see if there were any names on it. The writer's credit goes to "G. Kirby-A. Kinsel-G. Hobart."

THE GROUP - ( Contributed by Bob Galindo ) BAND MEMBERS: Bob Galindo - guitar / Roy Cox - guitar,voc (and bouffant hair-do) / ?? - drums / ?? - bass / Bobby Trevino - organ. Bob writes: I can't remember the drummer or bass player's name. The drummer was cool, he was a lounge cat that wore shark skin suits, a razor cut hair-doo and a neck tie - has was always yanking on the necktie cause it was too tight. We would play lots of Don Couser KONO promo gigs. Roy Cox was heavy into the TEENTIME scene and was always seen on screen dancing with her highness, Sherry Adcock.....they pushed BIG RED like there was no tomorrow." ( addition by Chris Holzhaus ) Chris writes: "In reference to what Bob Galindo wrote about Teen Time...it was called "Swingtime" (kono12), not TeenTime. Ricky Ware had a tv show on kens 5 called TeenTime. Swingtime aired at 11:00am and Teentime aired at 4:00pm. The 2 shows were heavy competition."

GREEZY WHEELS - ML writes: These guys were a riot. They were one of these Texas bands who I've never been able to categorize. They weren't really country but they weren't rock. Maybe the term 'dance hall' might help. They were the same type of band as Shiva's head band, St. Elmos Fire, The Lost Planet Airmen, maybe even Augie Meyers. The band wore flannel, long beards, had a fiddle player and generally made the audience feel good. A typical Austin style band in the late 70's. Fun to watch and listen to. A great date band. (Contributed by CJ Wilson) CJ writes: Greezy Wheels...i played this place in Kilgore, TX and they had some kind of mural with their logo spread across it. I never saw them, but always wondered about them.

GUESS WHO - ML writes: "This was another warm up slot for my band RENEGADE at the Rock Saloon off West Ave. The Guess Who was another reunion tour act that only featured 2 original members. Neither Burton Cummings nor Randy Bachman were present. Still, they sounded great and there was a full house in the club that night. They did all the hits and the crowd went wild. Another nice bunch of fellows."

GUN - no info yet-

GUNSMOKE - (Contributed by Steve Denney) SD writes: "I knew Jim Orr, who was in a version of Sandcastle. He was a year or two ahead of me at Roosevelt. I recall he had a power trio during his school days called Gunsmoke, with Mark Woodruff on guitar. They did heavy stuff like Rush and Joe Walsh." (Contributed by Jim Orr) JO writes: "In 1975 I was playing bass guitar for a country band called Bobby Baker and the Long necks. Guitar player Pete Barns and I wanted to break away and play both country and rock. We meet with a drummer by the name of Ken Curtis. Because Ken had the same name as the actor on the TV show Gun smoke we decided to name the band Gun Smoke. It lasted one week and we when back to Bobby Baker and the longneck but added some rock n roll to the song list. I kept the Ideal and started The Gun Smoke band with High School buddies Mark Woodruff on guitar and John Bradley on Drums, along with Paul Morison on piano and Kimberly Green on Guitar and Fidel. We played the country dance halls as a five-piece country / rock band and Three piece as a rock and roll band in clubs like the Knave and Players Reteat.We would play orange bloom special by Charley Daniels striate into Working man by Rush. We played Led Zeppelin and Hank Williams with equal enthusiasm. Later Paul Morrison was replaced by John Barrett.The hi light of the Gun Smoke band was the 1979 Ballet of the Bands at the sunken garden theater San Antonio Texas. Latter members included Mark Stover guitar, Kevin Leman drums, and Danny Lopes bass. We were a progressive Country / Rock n roll cover band that eventually recorded an original hard rock song call "one on one" at Zazz recording studios in 1979. The Gun Smoke Band is still available for privet parties, and light yard work. Rock n Roll Brother Mike, love your Web site."

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Mike's Band Archive

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