THE ELECTRIC PRUNES

The Electric Prunes came out of the San Fernando Valley, Los Angeles, California in 1966.   Initially known as 'The Sanctions' and later, 'Jim and the Lords'.  Jim, being James Lowe (lead vocal, autoharp).   Other original members were Ken Williams (guitar), Michael Weakley (drums) and Mark Tulin Tulin (bass). The lads were much more interested in recording than playing the valley club circuit.   Their break came teaming up with David Hassinger, then resident engineer at RCA studios who worked with the Rolling Stones when they recorded in LA 'Aftermath' at that time.   Hassinger arranged for them to record some demos at Leon Russell's home recording facility, called Sky Hill Studios.   Their name was changed to 'Electric Prunes' during these sessions. The single release I Had Too Much to Dream (last night)' (1966), was chosen from material Hassinger culled from the established songwriting team of Annette Tucker and Nancie Mantz.   It remains their highest charting success, reaching 11 in the USA and 49 in the UK.   Personnel included Jim Lowe on vocals, James "Weasel" Spagnola and Ken Williams on guitar, Mark Tulin on bass and Preston Ritter on drums.   This is regarded by many as the classic Prunes lineup.

THE ELECTRIC PRUNES