The Illusion - If It's So
By some standards, the Illusion were one of the most successful unknown psychedelic bands of their generation -- unknown, yes, but with three LPs to their credit on the Steed label. Their personnel included Michael Ricciardella (drums), Richie Cerniglia (guitar), Chuck Alder (bass), Mike Maniscalco (guitar, keyboards), and John Vinci (vocals). The Steed label released Illusion, Together, and If It's So between 1969 and 1970.
By accident I discovered The Illusion in the early 70s by grabbing the vinyl in the local Woolworth’s department store record section. I grabbed it on a whim not really knowing much at all about the band. It also helped that it was one of those albums affixed with a “special discounted price” sticker and the typical slit in the upper right corner of the cover (you from the 60s/70s know what I’m talking about). I’m really pleased to be able to share it with rock music aficionados here at Demon’s Eye some 35 years later. If this album is available on CD, I’m not aware of it. I tried for years to find a copy. What you have here is an unaltered lossless version of the vinyl rip. Credit goes to my resident expert son for the needledrop. His musical ear and his expertise in producing high quality uploads are second to none.
If you are familiar with The Illusion (not to be confused with the UK band of the same name; see band information below), I believe you’ll agree this album is a psychedelic rock jewel. If not, grab it and enjoy a trip back in rock history with this little known, underappreciated band from Long Island, New York. Enjoy!
From http://distortedrock.tripod.com/: To many, the 60's represent a search for freedom; whether politically, racially, monetarily or musically speaking. Much is known about the headline acts and events of that era. The Jimi Hendrix Experience. Jim Morrison and The Doors. Janis Joplin with Big Brother and the Holding Company . These were the bands of the United States - our country. But closer to home, there was more music brewing... The Long Island Sound.
Some say the Long Island Sound were The Rascals. The Vagrants. The Vanilla Fudge. But to many, leading the way was a five- man outfit called Illusion. Known for their sweet harmonies and stellar musicianship, the band drew a large & loyal following on the East Coast. Lead by John Vinci on vocals, the band featured fine drummer, Mike Ricciardella. Rounding out the rhythm section was Chuck Alder on bass and background vocals. The most versatile member was Mike Maniscalco who sang occasional lead but was the voice that stood out in the harmonies. Mike played rhythm guitar, keyboards & sax. Giving Illusion the edge over all other Long Island bands was a most underrated guitar player - Rich Cerniglia.
Having a top 40 hit on Jeff Barry's Steed label, "Did You See Her Eyes", gave them the opportunity to do their first tour with Mitch Ryder. Illusion later went on to open for such acts as Chicago, The Who, Savoy Brown, The Allman Brothers and Sly and the Family Stone just to name a few. Also, along with Cactus, the Illusion were a support act for Jimi Hendrix at the Boston Garden in 1970, shortly before his tragic death. The Illusion went on to record two more albums for Steed Records- Together (As A Way Of Life) and perhaps their finest album, If It's So. Shortly after the release of what should have been Illusion's break through LP, the band disbanded.
Track Listing
1. Man
2. Let’s Make Each Other Happy
3. When I Metcha Babe
4. Collection
5. If It’s So
6. Life Cycle Theme
7. Dr. Stone
8. Excerpt from Recuverdas De Alhambra
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