Biography
Collectors primarily recognize Thee Sixpence for transforming, after several personnel adjustments, into Strawberry Alarm Clock. Prior to this transformation, the ensemble put out four singles during 1966 and 1967 through the small All-American imprint. Although not exceptional, these tracks stood out as solid examples within the raw and ominous style of Los Angeles garage rock that edged toward psychedelia, bearing resemblance to more polished recordings from the same period by acts such as the Chocolate Watch Band, the Seeds, and the Standells. Demonstrating discerning choices, they interpreted two compositions by Love, specifically "My Flash on You" and "Can't Explain," while also attempting a hard rock rendition of "Hey Joe," a track that Love had featured on their initial album, much like numerous other bands from Los Angeles. Among their non-cover originals, "Heartful of Rain" shone brightest, characterized by its anguished growled singing, winding guitar melodies, sharp organ tones, and harmonies in a minor key. Their moniker shifted to Strawberry Alarm Clock right before issuing "Incense and Peppermints"; upon Uni acquiring the single, it ascended to the top chart position and launched an entirely fresh phase for the group. The complete set of recordings from those scarce All-American releases, encompassing the "Incense and Peppermints"/"The Birdman of Alkatrash" single that appeared under the Strawberry Alarm Clock name prior to Uni's involvement, came together on the compact disc compilation Step By Step.