It's saying something when the words coming out from The Banana Splits, "four costumed animal characters in red helmets with yellow crests", from a psychedelic Sixties US kids' TV show sound more rational than the so-called leader of the free world.
I have a digitial copy of We're The Banana Splits, the one-off album from 1968 spun-off from the show and it's surprisingly good. Then again, given that the album allegedly features uncredited performances from Joey Levine, Al Kooper, Gene Pitney and Barry White, it should be.
I'm Gonna Find a Cave was co-written by Jimmy Radcliffe and Buddy Scott. Depending on whether you go with Iffypedia or Secondhand Songs, it was first released in 1966 by either Charlie Starr or Miki Dallon. The Banana Splits' version is voiced by Ricky Lancelotti.
There have been a handful of cover versions over the years. A version by Girl Trouble popped up on the Sub Pop 200 compilation in 1988 (1989 in the UK).
There are a few more recent takes, by Naked In English Class (2018) and Dog-Sized Rat (a mere three weeks ago, at the time of this post). However, the frankly rubbish band names put me off investigating further.
Right, I've packed my bags, I'm off to Clearwell in the Forest of Dean.
Oh crap, they're closed for another few weeks....
That Charlie Starr version is rather good.
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