Gandalf (American band)
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1965 in New York City, United States |
| Defunct | 1968 |
| Headquarters | New York City , United States |
| Products | Psychedelic rock music |
Gandalf was an American psychedelic rock ensemble with a brief existence, originating in 1965 in New York City. The band issued a single studio album, titled Gandalf, in 1969, following their breakup the year before.
History
Initially named the Rahgoos, the lineup consisted of guitarist Peter Sando, bassist Bob Muller, keyboardist Frank Hubach, and drummer Davy Bauer.
In 1967, they secured a recording contract with Capitol Records. The producers Koppelman & Rubin disapproved of their original name and suggested "the Knockrockers," a title the band declined. Ultimately, drummer Davy proposed "Gandalf and The Wizards," which was shortened to "Gandalf."
Their first LP, recorded during that same year, included renditions of songs by Tim Hardin, Eden Ahbez, and the songwriting duo Bonner & Gordon (known for "Happy Together"), along with two original compositions by Peter Sando. Capitol issued the album in 1969; however, errors in the packaging resulted in a recall that negatively impacted the band's commercial success. Additionally, insufficient promotional efforts further restricted sales. Over time, the album attained greater appreciation and was re-released by Sundazed Music in 2002. A subsequent album titled 2 was released by Sundazed in 2007.
Band members
- Peter Sando – guitar
- Frank Hubach – keyboards
- Bob Muller – bass guitar
- Davy Bauer – drums
Discography
Gandalf (1969)
- "Golden Earrings" (Ray Evans/Jay Livingston/Victor Young cover)
- "Hang On To A Dream" (Tim Hardin cover)
- "Never Too Far" (Hardin)
- "Scarlet Ribbons" (Evelyn Danzig/Jack Segal cover)
- "You Upset The Grace Of Living" (Hardin)
- "Can You Travel In The Dark Alone" (Peter Sando)
- "Nature Boy" (Eden Ahbez cover)
- "Tiffany Rings" (Garry Bonner/Alan Gordon cover)
- "Me About You" (Bonner/Gordon)
- "I Watch The Moon" (Sando)
References
- The Mojo Collection by Jimmy Irvin and Colin McLear, London, 2000, Canongate Press.