Psychedelia...circa...19....99!!!??
Randall M. Benton | Ridgway, PA United States | 03/27/2003
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I must admit when I ordered this CD I thought I was getting a rare live recording from the classic psychedelic era...1967 or so. When I opened it and found out it was recorded in 1999 I was bummed! But, I figured I'd give it a chance. And am I glad I did! The "new" Chocolate Watchband can ROCK! These guys...all 50-ish or so by now sound like a bunch of 20-somethings just rockin' out and having a great time! This CD proves that just because you get older doesn't mean you can't SOUND young! The music is tight and powerful and has that "60's" sound...But, unlike many of the recordings from 30+ years ago this one has punch! The band just sounds so fresh it's really an exciting find to add to my collection. "Are You Gonna Be There (At the Love-In)" may be 35 years old but it sure sounds as fresh as anything else from that period. Not dated one bit! If you like the "garage-psychedelic-punk" sound, also check out "Nuggets" box set for other little-known bands (13th Floor Elevators, The Sonics, Balloon Farm, Lollipop Shoppe, Love etc...). As far as Chocolate Watchband goes...time sure hasn't hurt them! BUY IT and TURN IT UP! See you at the "LOVE-IN!""
Chocolate Watchband - 'At The Love-In Live' (Roir)
Mike Reed | USA | 12/10/2003
(4 out of 5 stars)
"A lot of you probably don't even remember the CWB.They were a west coast five piece that existed between 1965-68,releasing three worthy lp's.Apparently,the band had reunited on November 6,1999 for a show at the Westbeth Theater in New York City.From what I could tell,there appears to be three original members-vocalist David Aguilar,bassist Bill Flores and drummer Gary Andrijasevich.Best described as charismatic garage rock;sort of like a Stones wanna be.Most happening tracks were "Don't Need Your Loving","Are You Gonna Be There?",the Dylan cover "It's All Over Now Baby Blue",their anthem "I'm Not Like Everyone Else","Misty Lane","Sweet Young Thing"(my personal favorite Chocolate Watchband tune)and "I'm Moving On".Not sure if this was a one-off gig reunion or not,but I don't think it was.Will appeal to fans of the Standells,Kingsmen,Strawberry Alarm Clock,Music Machine and the Flamin' Groovies.Recommended."