Complete List Of The Human Beinz Albums And Songs

Feature Photo: Capitol Records, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Human Beinz, hailing from Youngstown, Ohio, carved out a unique place in the late-1960s rock scene with their dynamic sound and electrifying performances. Originally formed in 1964 as The Premiers, the group consisted of Dick Belley, Joe “Ting” Markulin, Mel Pachuta, and Mike Tatman. The band soon adopted the name The Human Beingz, reflecting the era’s countercultural ethos, but a record label error resulted in the now-iconic spelling, The Human Beinz. Their music blended elements of garage rock, psychedelic pop, and soul, capturing the experimental spirit of the time.

The band’s big break came when they signed with Capitol Records in 1967. Their debut single, a cover of The Isley Brothers’ “Nobody but Me,” catapulted them to fame. The track, released in 1967, became a massive hit, reaching No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning the group national acclaim. Its infectious energy, pulsating rhythm, and raucous shouts of “no!” captured the rebellious spirit of youth, making it a defining anthem of the decade. The song remains a staple of 1960s rock compilations and has enjoyed a lasting cultural presence, appearing in numerous films, commercials, and TV shows.

Building on the success of “Nobody but Me,” The Human Beinz released their debut album of the same name in 1968. The record featured a mix of covers and original compositions, showcasing the band’s versatility and knack for reinvention. Tracks like “Turn on Your Love Light” and “Flower Grave” illustrated their ability to navigate between soulful grooves and psychedelic experimentation. Later that year, they released their second album, Evolutions, which leaned further into the psychedelic rock sound, reflecting the rapidly evolving musical landscape.

Despite their initial success, The Human Beinz faced challenges maintaining their momentum. Internal tensions and the shifting dynamics of the music industry contributed to their eventual dissolution in 1969. However, their influence and legacy endured, with “Nobody but Me” cementing their place in rock history. The song’s enduring appeal has introduced their music to new generations, keeping their spirit alive decades after their brief but impactful career.

The Human Beinz did not amass a long list of awards during their time, but their cultural impact is undeniable. The vitality of their sound and the timelessness of their biggest hit have kept them in the public consciousness. “Nobody but Me” has been celebrated for its role in shaping garage rock and is often cited as one of the defining songs of the 1960s.

Nobody but Me

Released 1968

Nobody but Me, the debut album by the Human Beinz, captures the raw energy and exuberance of 1960s garage rock. Released in early 1968 by Capitol Records, the album was recorded during the height of the band’s popularity following the success of their electrifying single “Nobody but Me.” Produced by Alexis de Azevedo, the album was crafted to harness the infectious energy that had turned the Youngstown, Ohio-based band into breakout stars. Although specific details about the recording dates and studio locations are not readily available, the record’s sonic landscape is a testament to the vibrant, unpolished sound emblematic of the era.

The Human Beinz lineup on Nobody but Me featured Dick Belley on lead guitar and vocals, Sal Paventi on rhythm guitar and vocals, Mel Pachuta on bass and vocals, and Mike Tatman on drums and vocals. Together, they delivered a collection of tracks that showcased their ability to blend gritty rock rhythms with tight vocal harmonies and a touch of blues influence. The title track, “Nobody but Me,” became a defining moment not only for the band but also for garage rock as a genre. Peaking at number eight on the Billboard Hot 100, the song’s infectious chant and rhythmic drive encapsulated the spirit of rebellious youth culture in the late 1960s.

The album received mixed reviews upon release, with some critics praising the band’s spirited performances while others noted the uneven quality of the material. Despite this, the record remains a compelling snapshot of the garage rock movement, with songs that range from high-energy covers like “Turn on Your Love Light” to introspective tracks such as “Flower Grave,” hinting at the band’s versatility.

CD Track Listings:

“Nobody but Me” – 2:16
“Foxey Lady” – 3:42
“The Shaman” – 3:34
“Flower Grave” – 2:24
“Dance on Through” – 3:07
“Turn on Your Love Light” – 2:20
“It’s Fun to Be Clean” – 2:21
“Black Is the Color of My True Love’s Hair” – 2:20
“This Lonely Town” – 3:06
“Sueno” – 3:40
“Serenade to Sarah” – 2:38

Evolutions

Released 1968

The Human Beinz followed up their debut album with Evolutions, an ambitious effort that showcased a more experimental and diverse approach to their music. Released later in 1968 by Capitol Records, this second album ventured beyond the raw garage rock energy of their debut, delving into elements of psychedelia and incorporating more intricate arrangements. While the band was best known for their hit single “Nobody but Me,” Evolutions demonstrated their willingness to push creative boundaries and explore new sonic territories.

Produced by Alexis de Azevedo, the album was recorded during a period of significant change for the band. Featuring the same lineup as their debut—Dick Belley on lead guitar and vocals, Sal Paventi on rhythm guitar and vocals, Mel Pachuta on bass and vocals, and Mike Tatman on drums and vocals—the record reflected the group’s growth as musicians and songwriters. While details about specific recording dates and locations are scarce, the album’s production quality highlights the polished yet exploratory nature of the sessions.

Critically, Evolutions was seen as a bold step forward for the Human Beinz, though it did not achieve the same commercial success as their debut. The album featured a mix of originals and covers, blending the band’s trademark harmonies with experimental structures and trippy guitar work. Tracks like “Every Time Woman” and “Cement” reveal a band eager to experiment with the burgeoning psychedelic rock sound, while “Two of a Kind” and “The Face” showcase their ability to craft memorable melodies.

CD Track Listings:

“The Face” – 3:24
“My Animal” – 2:52
“Every Time Woman” – 3:12
“Close Your Eyes” – 2:50
“If You Don’t Mind, Mrs. Applebee” – 2:25
“I’ve Got to Keep on Pushing” – 3:03
“Cement” – 4:02
“Two of a Kind” – 3:03
“April 15th” – 3:40
“Hold on Baby” – 3:02

In Japan

Released 1969

In Japan captures The Human Beinz at the height of their international appeal, documenting their explosive live performance in Japan, where they had garnered significant popularity. Released exclusively in Japan in 1969, this live album showcases the band’s energetic stage presence and their ability to connect with an audience far from their home in the United States. It stands as a rare and fascinating snapshot of their career, emphasizing their global reach during the late 1960s.

Recorded during their 1969 tour in Japan, the album features the lineup of Dick Belley (lead guitar, vocals), Sal Paventi (rhythm guitar, vocals), Mel Pachuta (bass, vocals), and Mike Tatman (drums, vocals). The setlist draws heavily from their studio albums, Nobody but Me and Evolutions, while also including covers that highlight the band’s garage rock roots and versatility. Released only in Japan, the album has become a sought-after collector’s item.

CD Track Listings: