T.I.M.E. - Smooth Ball (1969)
T.I.M.E. (Trust In Men Everywhere) were a 60s band from Los Angeles that combined pop, blues, and psychedelia. Originally known as The Hardtimes, T.I.M.E. featured future Steppenwolf guitarist Larry Byrom . Although there are many psychedelic elements like fuzz guitar and mild acid leads . With Smooth Ball, T.I.M.E. became more ambitious with longer songs, less straightforward pop, and an overall heavier sound. Lead guitar plays a much larger role with frequent acid lead guitar by William Richardson and Larry Byrom prominently mixed. New bassist Richard Tepp also adds to the heavier sound of Smooth Ball. The connection to Steppenwolf becomes more apparent on this record as well, with occasional Magic Carpet Ride-esque organ.