When I used to work at The Corner Record Shop I would sometimes go up and fill shifts at the Grandville store. Some pretty amazing records came through the door but one that stood out to me was ‘Ode To Quetzalcoatl’ by Dave Bixby. The title, coupled with the strange minimalist artwork, intrigued me. Sometimes, you can tell a record is gonna be good just by looking at it.
I listened to the record and was immediately interested. One of the best psych/folk albums I’ve ever heard! A lot of music in that genre is typified by odd instruments, lots of effects, ambient instrumental sections and general psychedelic sounds. However, this album was mostly just Dave’s vocals and acoustic guitar with some natural reverb and echo. What really set it apart was the mood. Practically the definition of haunting pop. These are beautiful songs but played with a feeling of torture and isolation. There is a profound sense of passion and longing. No doubt that the music is completely genuine.
I did some research and found that the album was actually recorded in Grand Rapids in 1969. Apparently Dave was a part of a drug cult at the time. One evening he found God and decided to renounce his ways and live a life of sobriety and peace. He was then promptly abandoned by the cult, his friends and the local Christian group. Shortly after he wrote and recorded ‘Ode To Quetzalcoatl’ as a reflection on his new found convictions and loneliness.
I then found out from CRS’s owner, Steve, that the record was super rare and was the kinda thing vinyl nerds went crazy for. We put the album on ebay and as I remember it ended up selling for close to $1000. I found the whole thing fascinating as there seemed to be very little known of Dave since then. He recorded a few other albums with no real success or acclaim and then seemingly dropped off the face of the earth for 40 years. As a lover of obscure music, I’ve come across many artists with stories ending similarly. I can’t help but wonder where some of them are currently and what they’re doing.
Normally the story would end there. However, a few weeks ago I got a unexpected email from the musician Derrick Hart. He wanted to know if I’d be interested in helping set up a show for this guy he’s touring with. DAVE BIXBY. I couldn’t believe it! Instead of just wondering what happened to him, Derrick actually tracked the man down and convinced him to go out on another tour. AFTER 40 YEARS! This kind of thing just doesn’t happen often.
So, all this to say, the one and only Dave Bixby will be playing The Strutt TONIGHT. Joining him will be Derrick Hart, Peter Damien Cook and Silphium Blooms (Tyler Bassett). Cover is only $5 and music starts at 9pm. All ages are welcome.
If this sounds at all like something you’d be interested in, please help spread the word! Let’s make sure Dave feels welcomed!!
DITKalamazoo 
