the src

Guitarist for influential Michigan rock band the SRC, Garry Quackenbush, has passed away after a struggle with lung disease.

Best known for his work with the SRC (Scot Richard Case) in the late ’60s and early ’70s, Quackenbush had been under home care. Friends rallied earlier this month in Detroit to stage a benefit show.

SRC released three albums (“SRC”, “Milestones” and “Traveler’s Tale” – the latter without Quackenbush) during their run and two posthumous records (“Lost Masters” and “Black Sheep”) after their break-up. The surviving members staged some reunion gigs in recent years.

Quackenbush was recognised as a master of sustain and feedback and the band’s influence was particularly felt in Europe thanks to a string of album re-issues.

Leni Sinclair photo

There’s a benefit show for Gary Quackenbush of The SRC on September 6 at Club 54 in Sterling Heights in Detroit. The guitarist has been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis. 

The SRC were formed by Scott Richardson after singing with the Chosen Few, an Ann Arbor band that also had Ron Asheton and James Williamson (later of the Stooges) as members at various times. The SRC ranks included Glenn Quackenbush, Gary Quackenbush and E.G. Clawson. Jeep Holland, manager of The Rationals, became their manager and suggested Richardson as lead singer. Bass player Robin Dale was added later.

The SRC was one of Michigan’s finest psych bands of the ‘60s and  contemporaries of the Stooges, the MC5 and The Up.

Capacity at the benefit gig is limited to 400 and doors open 6pm.  The bill includes The Reefermen, Frijid Pink and an after-jam with Ray Goodman (SRC) and the Essentials featuring Tosha Owens. Scott Morgan will be the guest MC and will also be performing.