The Lamp of Childhood
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1966 in Los Angeles, California, United States |
| Defunct | 1967 |
| Headquarters | Los Angeles , United States |
| Products | Music singles |
| Parent | Dunhill Records |
The Lamp of Childhood was a short-lived American folk rock ensemble that originated in Los Angeles, California in 1966. Although they issued three singles through Dunhill Records, none achieved chart success, leading to their dissolution in 1967. Despite this, the group included several members who later gained recognition.
History
The group was initiated by Jim Hendricks, previously associated with the Mugwumps and known as the spouse of Cass Elliot. The lineup consisted of Hendricks handling vocals and guitar, Fred Olson on lead guitar, Mike Tani (Michael Takamatsu) playing bass, drummer Billy Mundi, and session keyboardist Gabriel Mekler. Their first release was a rendition of Donovan's "Season of the Witch" issued in late 1966. Following disappointing sales, Mundi departed to join the Mothers of Invention. Subsequent singles featured Marty Tryon taking over bass duties.
Just prior to their concluding performance at the KFRC Fantasy Fair and Magic Mountain Music Festival in June 1967—an event integral to the Summer of Love—Hendricks left the band and was succeeded by John York. Positioned after headliners such as The Doors and the 5th Dimension, their festival set had limited exposure.
After disbanding, York became a member of the Byrds, Mekler pursued a successful career producing for hard rock outfit Steppenwolf, Mundi joined the supergroup Rhinoceros, and Tryon worked both as a session musician and collaborated with the Smothers Brothers. Hendricks subsequently developed a career focusing on gospel and country music based in Nashville, Tennessee.
Recordings
Under Dunhill Records, The Lamp of Childhood released three singles:
- "Season of the Witch" / "You Can't Blame Me" (October 1966) – Dunhill 4051
- "First Time Last Time" / "Two O'Clock Morning" (March 1967) – Dunhill 4063
- "No More Running Around" / "Two O'Clock Morning" (1967) – Dunhill 4089