The United States of America (band)

The United States of America was a progressive rock and psychedelic band whose works are an intriguing, if primitive, example of early electronic music in rock and roll.

Formed by leader Joe Byrd[?] in 1967 and featuring Dorothy Moskowitz[?] as vocalist, they released one self-titled[?] album in 1968. This is one instance where the claim that they were "ahead of their time" can be given without irony. Relying on very early synthesizers, the record was an intriguing mixture of electronic sounds. They had no hits; it would take several years before a wide audience would become ready to appreciate a track like The Garden of Earthly Delights[?]. They did win a cult following, and their reputation grew, assisted by the fact that the one album they released was hard to find.

Attempts to support the record by touring were hampered by a number of problems, including legal issues involving several band members, but more because the delicate electronics used to create the band's distinct sound weren't quite ready for the rigors of the road. The band broke up shortly after the first release. Byrd went on to form The American Metaphysical Circus[?], and appeared for a while as a member of Country Joe and the Fish. He also worked for Ry Cooder in the 1970s.