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THE ATLANTICS
Band Members:
Jimmie Meza (lead guitar)
Juan Meza (rhythm guitar)
Ruben Garcia (sax)
Manuel Garcia (bass)
Jim Hughes (vocals)
Frank Ascolese (drums)
Mike Ronquillo (trumpet)
Carmen Caudillo (vocals)
EDITORS NOTE:
This post has been revised after a an e-mail and enlightening telephone conversation with Atlantics guitarist, Jimmie Meza. I wish to thank Mr. Meza for sharing some information and his memories of the Eastside scene.
The Atlantics were yet another Eastside band discovered by Billy Cardenas. The band members attended Rosemead, El Monte & Arroyo High Schools. The band was originally called The Vandells and performed at house gigs and at Zamora Park in El Monte. An employee of El Monte High School, Mike Sharboro became their early manager.
Mike introduced the band to Billy Cardenas and they were booked for an audition at the Rhythm Room in Fullerton. Billy liked what he heard and brought the band to Eddie Davis. Eddie changed the bands name to The Atlantics and took them into the studio where they waxed two singles for his Rampart label.
The Atlantics opened for many big acts including Little Anthony & The Imperials, the Crystals, The Coasters, Gary US Bonds and Sonny & Cher.
They were the house band at Bob Eubanks "Cinnamon Cinder" for two months 1964/1965
The Atlantics first single was "Beaver Shot" and "Fine Fine Fine" on the Rampart label (Rampart 643) released in 1965.
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You May Listen To The Atlantics "Beaver Shot" Here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pw7r6rOlUJE
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The Atlantics second single was "Sloop Dance" and "Sonny & Cher" also released on the Rampart label in 1965 (Rampart 647). "Sloop Dance" was a remake of The Vibrations song.
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The Atlantics appeared on Sam Riddle's 9th Street West in December 1965 where they performed "Fine Fine Fine"
In December 1965 the Atlantics played the Alexandria hotel. Also on the bill were Thee Midniters & Ron Holden. That was their last gig.
In February 1966, Jimmie Meza & Manuel Garcia were drafted & the Atlantics soon disbanded. Saxophonist Ruben Garcia would go on to join the Premiers.
Carmen Caudillo and Jimmy Hughes went on to join The Epics.
NO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT INTENDED!!!!
Solely for educational & historical purposes and for listening pleasure.
NO COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT INTENDED!!!!
Solely for educational & historical purposes and for listening pleasure.
Were these the same Atlantics that recorded on Rampart, Linda and Faro labels?
ReplyDeleteAs I recall, we recorded on the Faro and Rampart labels.
DeleteJimmie Meza
Well, if I had some patience I would have had all my questions answered. :-) Thanks for always taking the time to do such wonderful research.
ReplyDeletemy grand father was carmen caudillo and he was a fantastic guy and sang very well. he unfortunately passed away a little over 2 years ago and i miss him so much. but its good to know that people still like his music.
ReplyDeleteI knew ur grandad mr.g I use to go in there and sweep the shop and hang out all the time. I heard the news when I went out to visit I. 2011 sorry for ur loss ..the shop was gone broke my heart..does ur grandpa have a plot ...I would like to pay my respects ..my email is Jimenez.richard88@gmail.com I've been tryin to find someone for years
DeleteYour grandfather Cotton as I knew him was a great talent and I have many great stories of this good man
DeleteCarmen great guy owner of mr g Montclair Ca
DeleteWhere did the band members go after they disbanded? Jim Hughes was my cousin.
ReplyDeleteTwo band members went into military service myself (Jimmie) and Manual the bass guitarist. Carmen and Jimmy went on to play with a group called The Epics. At present, three of the band members have passed away.
DeleteAccording to lead guitarist, Jimmie Meza two band members went into military service, Jimmie & bass guitarist, Manuel Garcia. Carmen caudillo & Jimmie Meza went on to play with a group called The Epics. At present, three of the band members have passed away.
DeleteHe’s my dad
DeleteHe’s my dad
DeleteAs a kid (1961) I remember meeting “Cotton” aka Carmen Caudillo.....when we lived in El Monte.....I was impressed so much that years later I joined a rock band called the Vipers from Coachella.....I stumbled onto a great YouTube video tonight that chronicled Chicano artists.....keep the memory alive of that soulful sound we call sabor Chicano!
ReplyDeleteNice Job Guy! Beautiful tributes to the Eastside bands and the musicians. Keeping it alive! Bravo
ReplyDelete