The Lost (band)

The Lost

Company type	Band
Industry	Music
Founded	1964
Headquarters	Boston , United States
Area served	United States
Products	Music recordings, live performances
Parent	Capitol Records (former)

The Lost was a garage and psychedelic rock group originating from Plainfield, Vermont, that became active in Boston's rock circuit during the 1960s. Initially formed as an interracial ensemble, they rose to prominence as one of Boston's favored live bands, alongside acts such as the Remains and the Rockin' Ramrods, eventually signing with Capitol Records. Although their first single achieved regional success, they were unable to attain widespread commercial acclaim, which contributed to their dissolution in 1967. Their recordings later attracted interest from music collectors following the release of the compilation Early Recordings and Lost Tapes through Arf! Arf! Records.

History

Established in 1964 at Goddard College in Plainfield, Vermont, The Lost included original members such as Hugh Magbie, an African American guitarist and vocalist. The initial lineup consisted of Magbie (lead guitar and vocals), Ted Myers (rhythm guitar and vocals), Walter Powers III (bass, harmonica, vocals), Willie "Loco" Alexander (keyboards, percussion, vocals), and Tony Pfeiffer (drums). After moving to Boston toward the end of 1964, Magbie and Pfeiffer departed to resume their studies. Lee Mason stepped in as drummer, while Kyle Garrahan took over lead guitar duties. Concentrating on original compositions mainly by Myers and Alexander, the band became a notable presence at Boston venues like the Rathskeller.

On December 12, 1964, they recorded a demo produced by Barry Tashian of the Remains, which secured them a contract with Capitol Records. Their first single, "Maybe More Than You" backed with "Back Door Blues," showcased folk rock influences inspired by Bob Dylan and enjoyed radio play in Massachusetts and New York. The Lost served as opening act for prominent performers such as James Brown, Sonny & Cher, the Supremes, and joined the Beach Boys on an East Coast tour during spring 1966.

The follow-up release, "Violet Gown," encountered delays and was re-recorded under producer Jerry Keller but did not achieve chart success. Frustrated by this outcome, Capitol Records terminated their contract, halting the group's progress. In January 1967, The Lost played several shows at Boston Tea Party—a newly established venue central to Boston’s psychedelic music movement. Their concluding concert took place there on January 28, 1967, shortly before disbanding.

After the breakup, Ted Myers became involved with psychedelic groups including Chamaeleon Church—which featured future comedian Chevy Chase—and later joined Ultimate Spinach. Both bassist Walter Powers and keyboardist Willie Alexander became members of the Velvet Underground's final lineup following Lou Reed’s exit. Alexander continued to be an influential figure within Boston’s music community for many years. The Lost have reunited occasionally for live performances.

In addition to their three singles from the mid-1960s, The Lost recorded numerous tracks that remained unreleased until compiled on Early Recordings and Lost Tapes, issued by Arf! Arf! Records.

1964

• Hugh Magbie (lead guitar and vocals)
• Ted Myers (guitar and vocals)
• Walter Powers III (bass guitar, harmonica, vocals)
• Willie Alexander (keyboards, percussion, vocals)
• Tony Pfeiffer (drums)

1965-1967

• Ted Myers – guitar and vocals
• Kyle Garrahan – lead guitar
• Walter Powers III – bass, harmonica, and vocals
• Willie Alexander – keyboards, percussion, and vocals
• Lee Mason – drums

Discography

• "Maybe More than You" backed with "Back Door Blues" (Capitol 5519, October 1965)
• "Violent Gown" backed with "Mean Motorcycle" (Capitol 5708, July 1966)
• "Violent Gown" backed with "No Reason Why" (Capitol 5725, August 1966)