Effective period / Period of releases: 1966

Originally a cover group from Staten Island called the Chanters, the line-up of the Cats Meow included John Ventura (lead vocals), Alan Forlenza (rhythm guitar, vocals), Pete Carver (lead guitar) and Bob Chirelli (drums). After signing with Buddah Records, contractual reasons saw the group rechristened The Beeds; Forlenza and Chirelli dropped out, replaced by Richie Martinis on guitar and vocals, Jay Klied on drums, and adding Lester Margolies on bass.