Four Plus One

An unexceptional British R&B band of the mid-1960s, the Four Plus One (also spelled in various permutations such as Four + 1, 4 Plus One, etc.) made just one unmemorable single. However, they're remembered for including two members, vocalist Keith West (then Keith Hopkins) and rhythm guitarist Junior Wood, who would form one-half of Tomorrow, one of the premier early British psychedelic groups. The Four Plus One were already playing by the time West, who also played harmonica, joined them after seeing their ad for a singer in Melody Maker. Their lone single, 'Time Is On My Side"/"Don't Lie to Me," came out in January 1965 on EMI, and stood little chance of hitting considering the Rolling Stones were having success with the song at the same time (and even considering that the Stones' version was released as a single only in America, being relegated to an LP track in the UK). The B-side, "Don't Lie to Me," was a decent if workmanlike Chuck Berry cover. After the single, they changed their name to the In Crowd, playing more soul- and mod-oriented material, and releasing three singles, guitarist Steve Howe joining in time for the second. The In Crowd, after further stylistic growth, evolved into Tomorrow with the addition of drummer Twink Alder. Both sides of the Four Plus One single are on the Keith West compilation Excerpts from ...Groups & Sessions 1965-1974. ~ Richie Unterberger, All Music Guide