The Kreeg
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1966 in Albuquerque, New Mexico, United States |
| Defunct | 1968 |
| Headquarters | Albuquerque , United States |
| Products | Music recordings, live performances |
'The Kreeg were a 1960s American garage rock band originating from Albuquerque. They stood out as a prominent local act, gaining regional acclaim with their 1966 single "How Can I" backed with "Impressin'". A comprehensive collection of their work was later released in 1996 as the anthology Impressin.
History
The Kreeg formed in Albuquerque in 1966, evolving from earlier groups called the Goldenaires and then the Prophets. The initial lineup featured Bob Sturtcman on rhythm guitar and vocals, Hap Blackstock handling bass and vocals, Larry Inks on lead guitar, and Russ Sturtcman playing drums. Subsequently, Ray Trujillo replaced Hap Blackstock on bass. The band's name transitioned from "the Blitzkrieg" to "the Krieg" before settling on "the Kreeg," a change influenced by local cultural considerations.
While their early sound was inspired by the Beatles, they gradually embraced the style of British blues-oriented groups such as the Rolling Stones, Them, the Yardbirds, the Kinks, and the Animals. This was combined with influences from American folk rock and garage bands like the Beau Brummels and the Leaves, resulting in a unique fusion of blues and folk rock elements.
Bob Sturtcman contributed many original compositions, and the band produced demos prior to becoming the inaugural signing of Dick Stewart’s Lance Records, based in Albuquerque. Their debut single, launched in November 1966, generated two local hits and played a key role in establishing Lance Records as a focal point for regional rock artists. The Kreeg sustained a strong following through energetic live shows at fraternity gatherings and high school functions, securing frequent performance opportunities.
The group disbanded by late 1968 due to lead guitarist Larry Inks relocating to California and the looming Vietnam War draft. After the breakup, Bob Sturtcman pursued a career in architecture, while Russ Sturtcman passed away in 2014.
Following The Kreeg’s dissolution, Bob and Russ Sturtcman joined Mother Sturtcman's Jam and Jellies, releasing a 1969 single featuring a cover of the Yardbirds’ "For Your Love," and later performed with Albatross during the early 1970s. In 1996, Bob Sturtcman collaborated with Dick Stewart to compile Impressin', an anthology CD containing all of The Kreeg’s recordings including demos and live performances; it was issued by Collectables Records and is noted for its extensive liner notes and discography.
Their songs "How Can I" and "Impressin'" were included on the compilation Sixties Archives #4: Florida & New Mexico Punk (Eva Records, 1991). Additionally, "Impressin'" appeared on Garage Beat '66 Volume 1: Like What, Me Worry?! (Sundazed Music, 2004).
Membership
- Bob Sturtcman (rhythm guitar, vocals)
- Hap Blackstock (bass, vocals)
- Ray Trujillo (bass)
- Larry Inks (lead guitar)
- Russ Sturtcman (drums)
Discography
- "How Can I" b/w "Impressin'" (Lance 2229, November 1966)