Search - Wilkinson Tri-Cycle :: Wilkinson Tri-Cycle

Who Were These Guys?

Curt L. Schwebs | 10/03/2009

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I bought this album in the spring of 1969 when it was released on Date records, a CBS (Columbia) subsidiary. Being interested in three-piece bands the cover looked intrigueing - three stone-faced long-hairs staring at the camera. The bar was set rather high for trios in 1969. Cream's "Goodbye" album had come out, Hendrix was alive and well. Upon hearing "Wilkinson Tri-Cycle" I was pleasantly surprised. Guitarist David Mello wasn't going to win any awards for prolific soloing but his playing fit in well with their sound. Bassist Richard Porter and drummer Michael Clemens were the real story. Porter had good chops and an excellent singing voice while Clemens drove the music with precision and rhythmic dexterity. Their music covered a range of styles - heavy rock, blues and pop-rock with a dash of psychedelia. They had a unique sound. I couldn't classify them. Two tracks in particular stood out - "David's Rush" and "Yellow Wall". Both had an orchestral accompianment and were very memorable. Especially "Yellow Wall" about a trip to the dentist. Over the years I would periodically bring out this album for a listen. It always stood-up and retained its originality. Upon seeing a CD of "Wilkinson Tri-Cycle" on Amazon I had to order it. Unfortunately, the CD is mastered from vinyl. I have two vinyl copies already so I was disappointed. I was also hoping for some information regarding the band but, apparently, Wilkinson Tri-Cycle remains a mystery. The notes indicate they may have been from the Boston area and played with The Velvet Underground at the Boston Tea Party March 13-15, 1969. That's it. [...]lists the album but has no information. These guys seem to have fallen off the edge of the world. Regarding the CD, there is some surface noise but overall it's not a problem. This is one rare item from the late sixties. Depending on your taste for the music of those times I highly recommend it."