Jim Kriss compiled an amazing history of Thee Illusion (later known as Thee Illusion and Brass). There are dozens of great photos, a detailed history, and info on other groups from the area like the Humans and the Cult.
The PDF is available at the link below – a fairly large file, 22 MB.
https://garagehangover.com/images2020/TheeIllusionAndBrassAlbionNY1965-71.pdf
Below is Jim’s list of musicians in the Misfits and Thee Illusion and Brass:
Tom McNall – (original member of the Misfits and Thee Illusion – Rhythm/Lead guitar and vocals
T. Slate Raymond – (original member of the Misfits and Thee Illusion) – Lead Guitar
Alan Farnsworth – (original member of the Misfits and Thee Illusion – Drums, Bass Guitar and Vocals
Jim Kriss – (original member of Thee Illusion) – Drums and Vocals
Mark Heard – (second generation member of Thee Illusion) – Keyboards
Ray Colonna – (second generation member of Thee Illusion and Brass) – Percussion and Roadie
Steve Rustay – (first generation member of Thee Illusion and Brass) – Trumpet and Percussion
Bob Mathes – (first generation, former member of Thee Illusion and Brass) – Trumpet
Chuck Lafferty – (second generation member of Thee Illusion and Brass) – Trumpet and Percussion
Although these guys were two years younger than me, all in my younger brother’s (Frank) grade it was a pleasure to hear them. I was at their last concert at Nesbitt Motors. What a GREAT party.
I still remember to this day at that party Jim playing “In a Gadda da Vida”. He did a hell of a job.
Frank and I to this day consider Jim and his brother Jack lifelong friends!
Fond fond memories!!
Thank You Jim for a Great trip down Memory Lane. Always enjoyed the Band’s great play list. You guy’s were it for our formative years. Classic pictures throughout brought back a lot of memories but the real deal was that pic at the Black North. A Great group of guys that shared their talent and friendship with all of Us…..Rock on Gentlemen…..Frank
Sorry to report on the passing of our original Trumpet mate, Robert “Goober” Mathes in Houston, TX. I remember Bob from years in both the ACS Marching Purple Eagles as well as Thee Illusion and Brass and other sports along the way. He spent his career in the oil exploration and production business, including a stint or two in the North Sea. He passed way too young, and will miss the opportunity for the big reunion concert. RIP Bob.
As a1972 graduate from Albion I remember Alan Farnsworth and Bob Mathes from the swim team. I believe we used to see the illusion @ the Albion lanes. I recently ordered the 45 from the humans Take a taxi and warning on e bay. Also remember Steve’s brother Greg and the gang in CAMF .