For the most part, the MTA label (Music – Talent – Artistry!) signed California bands, but there were a few east coast groups on MTA as well. The Forsaken put out two singles on MTA in the second half of 1966. I have no idea where the Forsaken came from or who was in the band, but I suspect they were from the New York area. Ted Varnick is listed as songwriter and producer on all their sides; he also produced and wrote songs for the the Descendants.
“She’s Alright” is an uptempo pop number, where the singer is defending his painted-up, long-haired girlfriend from slander. The flip, “Babe”, is pretty good despite a dirge-like tempo.
I haven’t heard the Forsaken’s second single on MTA 111, “Frantic” / “Gotta Get Movin'”. It also has Varnick’s name in the credits and Varona Music, BMI as publisher.
I found a copy of this record a few years ago in an antique shop in Wooster, Ohio. Considering the other crazy stuff on the MTA label, I was hoping for some wild psych or raw garage stuff. Needless to say, I was a bit disappointed, but “She’s Alright” is a pretty good song in a Four Seasons-meets-the-garage sort of way. The “I swear, my girlfriend isn’t a slut” theme was, obviously, a common one for 60s pop and reflects a widespread anxiety regarding the issue of (women’s) sexual purity in the post-birth control “free love” era. Anyway, the record was only a buck, so I think I got my money’s worth.
Ok, the harmonies on She’s Alright are way better. Good band.
I know the reason why you found the record in Ohio. They had action on the single in Cleveland, and went there to be on a TV dance show to promot the single. My good friend, Frank Chiaro played and sang on the single. Frank had some recordings he sent along to me to post. Go To https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC-Sdomw2Ykca-eKDuc3mRQ the last two recordings are the Forsaken.
My grandfather was in a band called “The Forsaken” in the 60’s. They opened for quite a few big bands in New York and he has told some great stories about performing. With tomorrow being father’s day I will verify if this is the same band he was a member of.