Mountain 45s

Mountain 45s: A Groovy Trip Through the ’60s

Mountain 45s were a band that truly embodied the spirit of the ’60s – a mix of psychedelic rock, garage rock, and blues with a strong dose of improvisation. Formed in 1966 in Pasadena, California, the band was led by the charismatic and talented Leslie West (guitar and vocals) and Felix Pappalardi (bass and vocals). They were joined by Corky Laing (drums) and later by Steve Knight (keyboards).

Their sound was heavily influenced by blues greats like Jimi Hendrix and Cream, but Mountain 45s brought their own unique flavor to the table. Their music was energetic, raw, and often showcased West’s impressive guitar skills, a blend of blistering solos and heavy riffs.

Most Known Songs:

Their debut album, “Mountain” (1969), was a commercial and critical success, featuring the iconic tracks “Mississippi Queen” and “Theme for an Imaginary Western.” These two songs solidified their place in rock history, showcasing their signature blend of power, melody, and blues-inspired swagger.

“Mississippi Queen,” a seven-minute epic, is a prime example of Mountain 45s’ prowess. The song seamlessly blends blistering guitar work, powerful vocals, and a driving rhythm section, creating a sonic experience that was both exciting and captivating.

“Theme for an Imaginary Western” offered a different side to the band, featuring a more introspective and atmospheric approach. This song showcased West’s versatility as a guitarist, moving from bluesy riffs to soaring lead lines.

Other noteworthy songs include “Blood of the Sun” and “Nantucket Sleighride,” both showcasing the band’s ability to craft catchy and powerful tunes.

Similar Artists:

Mountain 45s shared musical kinship with many bands of their era, including:

• Cream: Similar blues-rock influences and a shared appreciation for improvisation.
• Jimi Hendrix Experience: Shared a love for pushing the boundaries of guitar technique and creating psychedelic soundscapes.
• Led Zeppelin: Both bands were known for their heavy and blues-inspired sound, with strong vocal performances.
• The Who: Both bands were known for their energetic live performances and a raw, powerful sound.

Friends and Influences:

Mountain 45s were part of a vibrant music scene and shared a strong camaraderie with other artists. They were known to be close with members of:

• The Velvet Underground: The two bands shared a mutual respect and admiration for each other’s music.
• The Doors: Both bands were known for their psychedelic and experimental elements in their music.
• The Grateful Dead: The two bands shared a common ground in their focus on improvisation and creating extended jams.

Legacy and Influence:

Mountain 45s left a lasting legacy on the world of rock music. Their powerful sound and innovative approach to blues-rock inspired countless other artists and influenced the development of heavy metal and hard rock genres. Their songs continue to be staples on classic rock radio stations and remain popular amongst music fans worldwide.

Though the band went through several lineup changes over the years, they continued to tour and release music until Leslie West’s death in 2020. Their music remains a testament to the power and passion of the ’60s, a reminder of a time when rock music was truly revolutionary.