The Electric Prunes The Great Banana Hoax

The Rise of The Electric Prunes

The Electric Prunes were an American psychedelic rock band formed in Los Angeles in the mid-60s. Originally called The Sanctions, the band changed their name to The Electric Prunes in 1965 after the release of their debut single, "Ain't It Hard". The song became a hit in the US and paved the way for the band's commercial success.

The Electric Prunes' lineup consisted of James Lowe (vocals), Ken Williams (lead guitar), Mark Tulin (bass guitar), James "Weasel" Spagnola (rhythm guitar), and Preston Ritter (drums). With their energetic live shows and innovative sound, the band quickly gained a reputation as one of the most exciting acts on the LA music scene.

The Great Banana Hoax: A Concept Album

In 1967, The Electric Prunes released their third album, The Great Banana Hoax. Unlike their previous albums, which were a collection of singles and cover songs, The Great Banana Hoax was a concept album that followed a narrative arc.

The album tells the story of a teenage boy who eats a banana laced with LSD and experiences a series of psychedelic adventures. The songs on the album are linked together by sound effects and snippets of dialogue, giving the impression that the listener is experiencing the story alongside the protagonist.

The Experimental Sound of The Great Banana Hoax

Musically, The Great Banana Hoax was a departure from The Electric Prunes' earlier work. The band experimented with new sounds and techniques, incorporating elements of psychedelic rock, progressive rock, and avant-garde music.

The album features complex arrangements, unconventional song structures, and unusual instruments, such as a bowed saw and a water gong. The Electric Prunes also made use of tape manipulation and sound effects to create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere.

The Reception of The Great Banana Hoax

Despite its experimental nature, The Great Banana Hoax was well-received by critics and fans alike. The album peaked at number 122 on the US Billboard 200 chart and spawned the hit single "Everybody Knows You're Not in Love".

However, The Great Banana Hoax was not as successful as The Electric Prunes' previous albums, and the band began to experience internal conflicts. In 1968, Ken Williams and James "Weasel" Spagnola left the band, and The Electric Prunes' lineup continued to shift over the next few years.

The Legacy of The Great Banana Hoax

Today, The Great Banana Hoax is regarded as a masterpiece of psychedelic rock. The album's innovative sound and concept have influenced generations of musicians and have earned The Electric Prunes a place in music history.

The Electric Prunes continued to release music throughout the 70s and 80s, and the band has undergone several reunions over the years. However, it is The Great Banana Hoax that remains the band's most enduring legacy.

If you're a fan of psychedelic music or are curious about the evolution of rock music in the 60s, The Great Banana Hoax is a must-listen. Its experimental sound and surreal storytelling continue to captivate audiences today, more than 50 years after its release.

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