History Mandrake Paddle Steamer

Mandrake Paddle Steamer was an English psychedelic-pop group active in the 1960s.

The band was formed in 1968 by several Walthamstow Art School students. Mandrake Paddle Steamer (later known as Mandrake) was heavily influenced by the psychedelic music and hippie culture emerging from the U.S. West Coast. They opened for and supported many British and U.S. acts of the day, including Pink Floyd, Santana, Free, King Crimson, The Nice, Spirit, and Vanilla Fudge.

Their first single included "Strange Walking Man" (side 1) and "Steam" (side 2) on EMI's Parlophone label. It was notable as one of very first releases from the Abbey Road Studios.

Mandrake Paddle Steamer disbanded around 1971.

Band members during their active period included:

Brian Engle (vocals, 1967-69)

Martin Briley (lead guitar, vocals)

Paul Riordan (bass, vocals)

Martin Hooker (keyboards)

Barry Nightingale (drums, 1967-69)

David Potts (drums, 1969-71)

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