Roger & The Gypsies

Earl Stanley was the lead guitarist of the New Orleans-based band, named for Stanley's cousin Roger Leon, who'd thought up the title of their lead-off single, "Pass the Hatchet." More of a dance instrumental than a song, "Pass the Hatchet" was an infectious piece of music highlighted by a great beat and beautiful guitar playing (and even some mean tambourine), and it was good enough to become the first hit for Joe Banashak's Seven-B label, circa 1969. Eddie Bo was the producer and arranger, and got hired as Seven-B's resident music director as a result of his work with Roger and the Gypsies. ~ Bruce Eder