The First Psychedelic: "Psychotic Reaction" Count Five (1966)

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“Psychotic Reaction” is considered the first acid psychedelic song thus counted as influential with its early use of feedback and distortion. The garage band was founded in 1964 when lead guitarist John Michalski and bassist Roy Chaney met at San Jose City College. Originally the Squires, the band went through personnel changes until settling on the lineup becoming Count Five. They originally played surf music then became influenced by the British invasion, the Yardbirds and the Standells. Though given group writing credit, “Psychotic Reaction” was basically honed by lead vocalist and rhythm guitarist John Byrne and the fast solo inspired by the Yardbirds cover of Bo Diddley’s “I’m a Man.” Harmonica is provided by Kenn Ellner. Double Shot Records put out their debut album “Psychotic Reaction” and the single went to Billboard #5. Count Five did not follow up their hit and disbanded in 1969. Members wanted to pursue college degrees. The band reunited for only one night in 1987 at a Santa Clara club.