McPhee-McPhee (1971)

Hailing from Australia, McPhee were a strange and obscure psychedelic rock band whose single album, released in 1971, has earned them a place among the rare gems of the rock world. The lineup consisted of vocalist and organist Jim Daverell, singer Faye Lewis, guitarist Tony Joyce, drummer Terry Popple, and bassist Benny Kaika. Their style straddled proto-progressive rock and acid rock, characterized by powerful vocals, sharp guitars, and a prominent organ, all underpinned by a solid and driving rhythm section. Their only album, released on the Violets Holidays label, features original songs and covers, including a spectacular rendition of Neil Young's "Southern Man", which they elevate to a breathtaking psychedelic climax. Another standout cover is "Wrong Time", originally by Spooky Tooth, which they transform into an epic progressive hard rock anthem, while "Sunday Shuffle" showcases the band's melodic side with a good dose of addictive rock and roll. Meanwhile, with "Indian Rope Man", they return to hard rock with progressive touches. The Beatles' "I Am The Walrus" takes center stage here with a hypnotic and dark version full of raw energy, before concluding with the expansive psychedelic jam "Out to Lunch".