The Fe-Fi-Four Plus 2
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1966 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, United States |
| Headquarters | Santa Fe , United States |
| Products | Music recordings (singles) |
The Fe-Fi-Four Plus 2 was a garage rock ensemble originating from Santa Fe, New Mexico in 1966. Distinguished by their creative vocal harmonies and fuzz-infused guitar riffs, the band emerged as early contributors to the psychedelic rock genre. They are credited with releasing what is considered the first psychedelic single produced by a group native to New Mexico, titled "I Wanna Come Back (From the World of LSD)".
History
Initially formed in 1966 under the name the Playmates, the lineup consisted of Victor Roybal on organ, Eddie Roybal handling drums, Mike Layden playing lead guitar, Joe Abeyta on rhythm guitar and backing vocals, along with Ernie Gonzales on bass guitar. The group later incorporated Danny Houlihan as lead vocalist and replaced Abeyta with Eddie James, who brought experience from his time with the Champs. With six members, they adopted the name Fe-Fi-Four Plus 2 to reflect the expanded roster.
The band performed extensively across New Mexico, cultivating a dedicated regional fanbase and engaging manager Tommy Bee. Under Bee’s guidance, they secured a recording deal with Lance Records and worked with producer Norman Petty, renowned for collaborations with Buddy Holly and the Fireballs. In late 1966, they recorded Houlihan’s composition "I Wanna Come Back (From the World of LSD)," featuring signature distorted guitar sounds and eerie vocal delivery characteristic of early psychedelic music. Roybal emphasized their goal to craft a unique sound distinct from mainstream pop trends.
Released in 1967 by Lance Records, "I Wanna Come Back" was paired with "Double-Crossin' Girl" as its B-side. This single holds the distinction of being New Mexico’s earliest psychedelic record. The initial release included the subtitle "(From the World of LSD)" on its label; however, this was later removed at distributors' insistence without affecting its commercial performance. The record’s regional popularity caught the attention of Polydor Records, which facilitated its distribution throughout Europe. By mid-1967, a subsequent single titled "Mr. Sweet Stuff" appeared on the smaller Odex label following disagreements with management. Due to limited promotional efforts and personnel changes caused by military draft obligations, the band disbanded in 1968.
"I Wanna Come Back" has been featured on numerous compilation albums over time such as Pebbles, Volume 5, New Mexico Punk Groups from the Sixties, Pebbles Box, Sixties Archives, Volume 4, and Garage Beat '66 Volume 1: Like What, Me Worry?!.
Discography
- "I Wanna Come Back (From the World of LSD)" b/w "Double Crossin' Girl" – Lance Records (#80-101-8), 1967
- "Pick Up Your Head" b/w "Mr. Sweet Stuff" – Odex Records (#DR-1042), 1967