History:

The Town Dump was a folk / folk rock outfit from Connecticut. The group had four known members: Patricia “Tish” Saumsiegle on lead vocals, John Rabe on bass guitar and vocals (and probably banjo), Chris Pahud on rhythm guitar and lead vocals, and Larry Abbott on lead guitar.  The band was sponsored by the Pilgrim Fellowship, a christian group. The Town Dump most likely toured universities and churches in Massachusetts, Connecticut, and the surrounding area, resulting in a very 60’s review from the Needham Chronicle: “...another confirmation to me that our youth of today aren’t all hippies, teeny boppers, and hopeless entities.”

The Town Dump only had one release: an extremely obscure and widely unknown EP titled “Positively No Garbage” on Dumpster Records (wow, the angst). Recorded and released most likely in 1969, the EP features a primitive typed sleeve, obscure covers, and a great psychedelic folk sound. After this release, the band’s activity dissipated. Tish Saumsiegle and John Rabe eventually got married, with Tish becoming a popular children’s book writer. 

Review:

Positively No Garbage (1969?, Dumpster Records)

Rating: 10/10

An excellent psychedelic folk record that I am shocked is unknown in most circles. The group does four tracks well with great haunting vocals from Saumsiegle (which reminded me of Laurie Braunstein from the infamous Sandstone), great guitar and bass work, and a great vibe. The EP starts off with a stunning cover of “A Different Drum” with excellent emotional vocals and good lead guitar work. “Mister Spoons” sounds a bit similar to David Bowie’s “Wild Eyed Boy From Freecloud” with some nice harmonies. The group’s stab at “Softly” is their best track, with some groovy upfront bass guitar and dark vocals. “I’m Not Saying” is the weakest track as it just doesn’t fit with the rest of the songs (a little too fast and raw). Overall, a great recording with some killer cover art of assorted garbage.