It's A Beautiful Day

It's A Beautiful Day was the child of violinist and vocalist David LaFlamme, formed on a beautiful day in San Francisco in 1967. The other members were David's wife Linda (keyboards), Pattie Santos (vocals), Hal Wagenet (guitar), Mitchell Holman (bass) and Val Fuentes (drums). Their debut album, the self-entitled It's A Beautiful Day, was released in 1969, and therefor they were a bit of a latecomer in the psychedelic scene, often considered to be one of the 'second wave' bands that emerged from the San Francisco Bay Area.

The band's first album featured some very strong tracks like White Bird (which quickly became a hitsong), Hot Summer Day and Time Is. The music had a unique style. It was creative, atmospheric and intelligent. The unique violin playing of David LaFlamme and his strong vocals, plus Pattie Santos's singing were greatly appreciated by many, and drew a huge following in the Bay Area.

By 1970 the original setting of the band was changed a little (David and Linda had split up: David stayed, Linda left the band, and Fred Webb replaced her), but their next album, Marrying Maiden, released in 1970, still included some wonderful tracks and didn't fail to chart.

The band continued to record (Choice Quality Stuff in 1971 and the formidable live album Live At Carnegie Hall in 1972) and tour until 1974. Although they were still able to produce some very good tunes, they couldn't generate the interest which they'd enjoyed in previous years. And alas, in 1974, they dissolved.