Phantom – Phantom’s Divine Comedy Part 1 [1974] (USA, Psychedelic/Hard Rock)

Psychedelic rock group from Detroit, Michigan, USA, active in the early to mid 1970s, previously known as Madrigal and Walpurgis. Under the management of Ed «Punch» Andrews of Bob Seger fame, they changed their name to Phantom and released one album, 1974’s «Phantom’s Divine Comedy». The musical instrumentation, mystical themes, and vocalist’s penchant for Jim Morrison-esque vocal stylings on the album led some listeners to spread wild rumors that this was a new project from the deceased Doors bandleader. The speculation was fueled by the fact that the members all used simple pseudonyms in the album’s credits. According to Hammond B3 player, Russ Klatt, the keyboardist of the group, the other members on the record are Ted Pearson (aka Arthur Pendragon) on all guitars, bass, and piano. drummer Jim Roland, and bassist Harold Beardsley. Other members of the group, who left prior to their lone recording were Ray Campbell on keyboards and guitars, and the Wells brother of Russ and Howard, on keyboard and drums, respectively. Another post-recording member was keyboardist Chris Ruetenik, later of Art in America.