Strawberry Alarm Clock's "Incense and Peppermints" (1967)

Dance song of the day - July 10, 2024

I meant to mention yesterday that a piece about Todd Rundgren is coming this weekend. I’ve just finished his autobiography and watched a slew of interviews with him, and have to say that his creative process as a performer, producer, and technology developer is fascinating, not to mention that he’s quite self-reflective and shares missteps and failures as much as successes. Stay tuned.

Song of the day

Here’s a 1967 number one single from the psychedelic rock vault called “Incense and Peppermints,” by L.A.-based Strawberry Alarm Clock from their debut album of the same name. Does it bring up groovy memories for you like it does for me? Or did you perchance get acquainted with it more recently in either Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery or Daisy Jones and the Six? Or is today your first time hearing this psychedelic standard?

These guys are still making albums and performing — with five of the original members! Check them out on their website.

Album and song credits

Songwriters: John S. Carter, Tim Gilbert (uncredited: Mark Weitz, Ed King)

Producers: Frank Slay, Bill Holmes

Strawberry Alarm Clock:

• Mark Weitz – organ, piano, harpsichord, vocals

• Randy Seol – drums, bongos, vibraphone, vocals

• Ed King – lead guitar, vocals

• Lee Freeman – rhythm guitar, harmonica, vocals

• George Bunnell – bass, vocals

• Gary Lovetro – bass, vocals

with:

• Steve Bartek – flute (uncredited)

• Greg Munford – lead vocals on "Incense and Peppermints" (uncredited)

• Gene Gunnels - drums, cowbell on Incense and Peppermints (uncredited)

Technical

• Paul Buff – engineer

• Ed Caraeff – photography