The Third Eye

There are plenty of obscure psychedelic bands from the Sixties that are always a joy to learn about. One of those bands for me has been The Peanut Butter Conspiracy. I almost like them for their name alone.

The Peanut Butter Conspiracy was a rock band that emerged from the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles in the mid-1960s. Formed in August 1966, the band initially evolved from a folk-rock group called The Ashes. Its founding members included John Merrill, Barbara “Sandi” Robison, Alan Brackett, Spencer Dryden, and Jim Cherniss.

The band’s sound blended elements of folk rock with psychedelic influences, reflecting the trends of the era. Despite several lineup changes and challenges, The Peanut Butter Conspiracy signed with Columbia Records in late 1966. Their debut single, “It’s A Happening Thing,” produced by Gary Usher, achieved moderate success on the charts.

The band released two albums throughout their career: The Peanut Butter Conspiracy Is Spreading and The Great Conspiracy. While they never achieved widespread commercial success, the band toured nationally and contributed music to several films.

Ultimately, The Peanut Butter Conspiracy disbanded around 1970, with members pursuing individual musical endeavors. Despite their relatively short existence, the band left a mark on the psychedelic rock landscape of the 1960s, and fans of the genre continue to appreciate their music. They are a cult classic-type group.

Surviving members continued to make music, with guitarist Lance Baker Fent founding GreenManMedia. In 2009, a reunion performance featuring original members honored the band’s music. Additionally, retrospective releases like “Spreading From The Ashes” and “Barbara” celebrated the group’s contributions, ensuring their place in rock history.

Read more about The Peanut Butter Conspiracy here.

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