R.I.P. Joe Yamanaka

Joe Yamanaka, vocalist/harmonicist of Flower Travellin' Band, died today (8/7/11). In remembrance of this incredible band, which may or may not be done, I give you their most acclaimed album, "Satori". Back when hard rock was erupting in the late 60s/early 70s England had Zeppelin, Sabbath, and Cream; America had Blue Cheer and Jimi Hendrix; and Japan had Flower Travellin' Band. They started out as a cover band to bring Japan the good news that was infecting the rest of the world, realized what they had, recruited a couple new members (one of which was Joe Yamanaka), recorded an album of covers called "Anywhere " (which also rules), and immediately started cranking out original material and that same year released "Satori". And it is glorious. If you like your rock hard and psychedelic, this is a must.

Flower Travellin' Band - "Satori" - 1971

Reignin' Bows of Black on the Daily (even if it's not on here...sorry 'bout that by the way),
Jon