Arts in the Valley, Saturday, July 28 (8PM), and Sunday, July 29 (2PM), 2012, 1480 KYOS AM, Merced, CA

 

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Arts in the Valley host Kim McMillon interviews Merced’s 60s psychedelic rock group Crystal Syphon.

To listen to the Crystal Syphon interview, click onto the link: crystal syphon-2

Crystal Syphon, one of the greatest “lost” groups of the West Coast psych scene, came together in Merced, California in 1965. Originally a Beatles / Byrds-influenced unit called the Morlochs, they soon shed their original moniker and moved in a more psychedelic direction, becoming a fixture on the ballroom circuit from 1966-1970. Although their music may nod in the direction of the New Tweedy Brothers and Quicksilver Messenger Service at times, it’s imbued throughout with a distinctive sound that arose from practicing up to six nights a week. The band entertained offers from various labels during their existence, but as they insisted on complete artistic control and ownership of their music, no deals were struck. Now, some 44 years after its creation, Roaratorio is proud to make the music of Crystal Syphon available for the first time ever. Drawn from studio tracks, rehearsal tapes and a live recording from the Fillmore West, Family Evil is released in an edition of 500 copies, with cover art by Norman Orr and extensive historical liner notes on an old-style “tip-on” jacket. Digital download included. 

“Family Evil” is available for purchase on iTunes and as additional pressings of the records become available at http://www.roaratorio.com.