The Villagers came from Sarasota County in Florida, just south of Tampa. Some or all of the members graduated from Riverview High School class of ’65.

They cut one fine record “Joann” / “Glad You’re Back” on Dale Records 107. “Joann” is a fine teen-type original by Jim Spoto. “Glad You’re Back” is an excellent fast-tempo original by Neal Larson, with neat harmonies and driving drumming.

The Sarasota Herald-Tribune featured a photo of the band on July 7, 1964, describing them as:

… a recently reorganized ensemble … a formerly all male group, now includes the talents of Gretchen Holland at the drums. Other musicians, from left, include, Ken Larsen, Jim Spoto, Neil Larsen and Bill Burgsteiner.

The Tampa Bay Times reported on May 6, 1965 that the Villagers came in third place at the Suncoast Star Parade talent contest at Bayfront Center, with members listed as Gretchen Holland, Kent Larson, Jim Spoto, Wally Kirsten and Neil Larsen.

A notice in the Tampa Tribune on September 23, 1965 gives a different lineup:

Bradenton – A free concert will be given at Cortez Plaza Shopping Center Saturday at 5 p.m. by “The Villagers.”
The rock ‘n roll recording stars consist of Kent and Neil Larsen, Jim Spoto, Grechen Holland and Wally Kirstin and have won many honors through the state.

The record and articles have variations in spelling, Neil or Neal, Larsen or Larson.

At a 45th reunion at Riverview High School class of ’65, the Villagers played with a lineup of Bill Burgstiner, Jim Spoto, Harold Harms, and Kent Larson.

Somehow the record ended up on a New Orleans label, Dale Records 107, with mastering codes 133-3552/3. The code prefix 133 is unfamiliar to me.

It was recorded by Rick Jarmon, who is also unfamiliar to me. I cannot find any other credits for his engineering or production.

They were a talented group, and I wish they had made more records.

Anyone have a better photo of the group?