Biography
In 1971 the ensemble Grootna assembled in Berkeley, California, uniting vocalist Anna Rizzo with lead guitarist Vic Smith, pianist Richard Sussman, rhythm guitarist Slim Chance (also credited as Austin DeLone), bassist Kelly Bryan, and drummer Dewey DaGrease (likewise known as Greg Dewey). Management soon passed to prominent San Francisco promoter Bill Graham, who guided the group into a recording agreement with Columbia Records. Produced by ex-Jefferson Airplane member Marty Balin, the self-titled debut album appeared in December 1971 yet failed to register on any charts. Live appearances throughout the Bay Area continued until the summer of 1972, at which point Grootna disbanded; several former members subsequently joined Balin in the short-lived outfit Bodacious D.F.
Albums