Los Shakers were one of the most significant rock n roll bands to emerge from South America (Uruguay) during the reign of the Beatles. Their early albums were strongly influenced by the Fab Four but in later years, the Shakers would branch out into new sounds that were quite original. In 1966, the Shakers released For You, which was a their version of Rubber Soul and Revolver wrapped up into one LP – a true classic. It’s arguable which is the better LP of the two. La Conferenica Secreta Del Toto’s Bar was a stylistic leap forward and one of the most daring South American rock n roll LPs of the day.

Odeon Pops released La Conferencia Secreta Del Toto’s Bar in 1968. This label, which I believe to be a subsidiary of EMI, did not approve of or promote the Shakers new sound, which was an adventurous mix of psychedelia, classic 60s pop and candombe/tango. A few tracks still nod to the Beatles, such as the hooky but excellent Paul McCartney influenced On Tuesday I Watch Channel 36. Deep cuts such as Candombe dive into indigenous sounds while still incorporating elements of psychedelia in the record’s production. BBB Band, which features a chunky rhythm section and hypnotic organ is a true highlight to this reviewer. One of the great psychedelic cuts from South America, the Shakers are able to balance sweeping melodies and excellent harmony vocals into a trippy, intoxicating whole. Other cuts such as I Remember My World and Shape of a Rainbow are more complex pieces of music that feature accordions, backwards guitars, strings, pianos and fuzz boxes. This was some of the best music the Shakers had produced up to that point.

I’ve owned this LP for years and it’s a record that I continuously come back to. The Fattoruso brothers always wrote thoughtful lyrics and beautiful melodies but the band as whole crackles with a special energy – the Shakers were tight band. With this LP they made an original album that has stood the test of time.

Candombe:

BBB Band:

I Remember My World:

LP | 1968 | Odeon Pops | discogs ]