Mason Proffit
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MASON PROFFIT, was a band that appeared on the American music scene in 1969, pushed country and rock closer together than ever before; flew high, played hard and, in 1973, left as quickly as they appeared.
In the late 60’s music was changing and adapting to a new generation. Folk music had merged with rock, blues had re-grouped with gospel and ultimately country and rock were converging. The Byrds and other bands were playing a form of country rock, but the undisputed leader and standard bearer was a band from the Midwest called MASON PROFFIT.
Looking more like an outlaw gang from the wild west than rock stars, wearing leather fringe jackets and moccasins, Mason Proffit took the sound and songs of America and fused them with the conscience of a growing movement for social change. On stage, Mason Proffit combined high energy hard rockin' country guitars, pedal steel and dobro, with incredible harmonies and lyrics that cause you to stop and think.
Brothers John Michael (banjo, electric and pedal steel guitar) and Terry Talbot (vocals and guitar) fronted the band and wrote and sung most of the songs. The band packed a phenomenal line up of musicians: with bassist Tim Ayers, Art Nash on drums, and Bruce “Creeper” Kurnow on keyboards and harmonica.
Despite the large and loyal following Mason Proffit enjoyed, the sold out concerts, and even touring with the Grateful Dead, Mason Proffit was unable to develop a commercial audience (via recordings and radio airplay).
Mason Proffit broke up in 1974. John Michael left for religious pursuits while Terry went on tour, opening for the Eagles. Both brothers have enjoyed successful careers in Christian music and continue to write and play music with much conviction.
In 2003, Terry Talbot reunited Mason Proffit with original members Bruce Kurnow and Tim Ayers. John Michael Talbot's religious interests keep him from touring with the current lineup. Legendary guitarist/slide player Al Perkins is his replacement. Even though John Michael is not touring with Mason Proffit, he can be heard on the new Mason Proffit 2005 CD release “STILL HANGIN'”.
DISCOGRAPHY
- WANTED (1969, Happy Tiger) opened with the song “Voice of Change” and “Two Hangman” which would become and anthem of an outlaw generation.
- MOVIN' TOWARD HAPPINESS” (1971, Happy Tiger)
- LAST NIGHT I HAD THE STRANGEST DREAM (1971, Ampex)
- ROCKFISH CROSSING (1972, Warner Bros.)
- BAREBACK RIDER (1973, Warner Bros.)
- COMPILATION CD (2004)
- THEY'RE BACK (2004)
- MASON PROFFIT, STILL HANGIN' (2005)
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