Long Branch, New Jersey’s Inmates won a battle of the bands in 1966, leading to just one 45 on Columbia, the horrible novelty song “Local Town Drunk”. Columbia should have promoted the b-side instead, “You Tell Lies”, written by guitarist Ron Flannery.

A few unreleased numbers turned up later on. There’s a psychedelic edge to “Fakirs & Thieves” and “More Than I Have”, unlike the clean garage sound of “You Tell Lies”.

The other members of the band were Bobby Nolan lead vocals, Gordon Rhoades, Al Aschettino on bass, and Sammy Falvo on drums.

I recently received photos of an acetate credited to the Electric Carnival with “Fakirs and Thieves” and “More Than I Have”. Tommy Falcone is listed as producer. Thanks Joe for sending this in.

Anyone have a photo of the group?