Commander Cody
Although renowned for its high-energy rock, the Detroit/Ann Arbor region also formed the focal point for this entertaining country-rock band. The first of several tempestuous line-ups was formed in 1967, comprising Commander Cody (b. George Frayne, IV, 19 July 1944, Boise City, Idaho, USA; piano), John Tichy (b. St. Louis, Missouri, USA; lead guitar), Steve Schwartz (guitar), Don Bolton aka the West Virginia Creeper (pedal steel), Stephen Davis (bass) and Ralph Mallory (drums). Only Frayne, Tichy and Bolton remained with the group on their move to San Francisco the following year. The line-up was completed on the Airmen's debut album, LOST IN THE OZONE by Billy C. Farlowe (b. Decatur, Alabama, USA; vocals/harp), Andy Stein (b. 31 August 1948, New York City, New York, USA; fiddle/saxophone), Billy Kirchen (b. 29 January 1948, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA; lead guitar), ‘Buffalo’ Bruce Barlow (b. 3 December 1948, Oxnard, California, USA; bass) and Lance Dickerson (b. 15 October 1948, Livonia, Michigan, USA; drums). This earthy collection covered a wealth of material, including rockabilly, western swing, country and jump R&B, a pattern sustained on several subsequent releases. Despite attaining a US Top 10 single with Hot Rod Lincoln (1972), the group's allure began to fade as their albums failed to capture an undoubted in-concert prowess. Although LIVE FROM DEEP IN THE HEART OF TEXAS and WE'VE GOT A LIVE ONE HERE redressed the balance, what once seemed so natural became increasingly laboured as individual members grew disillusioned. John Tichy's departure proved crucial and preceded an almost total desertion in 1976. The following year Cody released his first solo album, MIDNIGHT MAN, before convening the New Commander Cody Band. Cody and Farlowe re-formed the Lost Planet Airmen in the '90s.