Charmer “Your Presence Requested” 1976 US Heavy Psych
Formed in 1977 by keyboardist Duane Hitchings (ex-Cactus) and Mike Pinera (Blues Image-ex).recorded in 1971 but released in 1976.
This mysterious act sprang from FL in the early 70’s, essentially as a studio project led by keyboardist Duane Hitchings (ex-Cactus) and his cohort, Mike Pinera (ex-Blues Image). It’s believed that this album, comprised of recordings were never intended for release, but Pinera had other plans. The recordings surfaced under the guise of “Charmer” and issued in 1977 on the infamous Illusion Records, a label which was later found to be a cloak for illegal tax activities.
Sporting a sound that blends elements of hard rock and soul, “Your Presence Is Requested” is a fairly decent collection of material, though there’s an overabundance of monotonous instrumental jamming sprinkled throughout. If you can get past that, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here. Obscurity seekers are encouraged to find their follow up LP, “Do It To It”. For now, enjoy the one and only, Charmer.