As a rule I prefer demos and practice recordings to slick studio finishes, but Hot Tropics may be the exception. This brilliant work showcases the Growlers in their fullest stride, like fancy new boots that make you feel mature and confident.

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Chris Darrow was the underheralded sideman of ‘70s L.A as well as one of the founders of the Kaleidoscope, one of the best psych-and-everything-else bands to ever come out of California. He is present on perhaps 15% of the records in your collection. This interview by Dan Collins

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