THE OPTIC NERVE "Lotta Nerve" 1994

The Optic Nerve was formed in 1985 by leader Bobby Belfiore along with Elan and Orin Portnoy and Ira Elliott. Elan and Ira left to be full time Fuzztones, and Tony Matura was brought in for the lifetime of the band on guitar and vocals. Drums were handled by Frank Manlin, Greg Clark and Ken Anderson during the Optic Nerve’s duration and Tom Ward played bass. The band packed it in towards the end of 1988, but left behind a legacy of memorable live appearances and some incredible music.Entire recorded output by New York City's amazing Garage band from the 80's and still active today. All songs here are gorgeous originals, with a folk/rock sound that shimmers and sparkles. The songwriting is excellent across the board; with comparisons to Gene Clark, Emitt Rhodes and Michael Brown being easy to see. Certain songs jump out at the listener: “Like To Get To Know Her” with its breathtaking Byrds/Searchers-like harmonies, “Take Me” with the clever psychish opening, and “I See The Truth” with its hooks and guitar lines.trax:

1. Ain't That Man 2. Mayfair 3. Happy Ever After 4. Take Me 5. Leaving Yesterday Behind 6. Same Way Too 7. Kiss Her Goodbye 8. What's She Tryin' To Do 9. What's Been Missing 10. Like To Get To Know Her 11. She's A Drag 12. I See The Truth 13. The Girl With The Beautiful Eyes

…originally served by Gyro1966...