Psychedelic Jukebox: [1966] Dr. T And The Undertakers - Undertakers Theme

In the midst of the wild garage rock scene of the 1960s, a dark gem flourished in sun-drenched Miami: Dr. T. & The Undertakers. The band, led by frontman Tony "Dr. T." Asci, was active between 1965 and 1967 – and was considered a local sensation. Dressed in black suits, with their own hearse as stage decoration and a penchant for morbid show effects, the group truly lived up to its name.

 

Their sound was raw, direct, and organic – classic garage rock with a touch of soul and a hint of psychedelia. While their A-sides like "Times Have Changed" were radio-friendly and vocal-driven, it was often the B-sides that caused a stir in hindsight.

Such was the case with the B-side of their 1966 single, the simply titled but unforgettable “(Deceased) Undertakers Theme.” A purely instrumental track that blends eerie organ lines with driving guitar riffs, creating the soundtrack to a beat-horror film that never existed. Creepy, hypnotic – and yet danceable. A hidden gem, later rediscovered on compilations like Psychedelic States: Florida in the 60s.

Dr. T. & The Undertakers also appeared on television shows like Rick Shaw’s TV Show, arrived on stage in a hearse, and were known locally for their theatrical performances – long before Alice Cooper and his kind. Today, their vinyl records are sought-after collector’s items, and the band itself remains a well-kept treasure of American underground music history.

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