Aunt Monk 1975: Martin Fierro (1942-2008), Merl Saunders, Tony Saunders; Larry Van; Chris Hayes

A little known, short-lived jazz rock group, fronted by Merl Saunders, in the early 70’s, who were based in San Francisco featuring Merl, his brother Tony, Martin Fierro, Larry Van and Chris Hayes. Chris - later lead guitarist with Huey Lewis and the News - then was also playing in Sweet Meat (pictured right) with his sister Bonnie Hayes and his brother Kevin Hayes. Merl Saunders and Aunt Monk released the album You Can Leave Your Hat On early 1976. The album was recorded (September-October 1975), remixed and mastered at Fantasy Studios, Berkeley, CA. Sheila Escovedo, later known as Sheila E. played congas on this album. You should check out all of Merl Saunders music - including his colaborations with Jerry Garcia or the Dinosaurs. More info can be found on Merl's websites (links below). Martin Fierro, who has also been a founding member of Zero, passed away Thurday, March 13, 2008 from cancer - more information about Martin Fierro's achievements can be found on Merl Saunders' MySpace website.

You Can Leave Your Hat On (Fantasy 1976)

You Can Leave Your Hat On -- Teasin' -- Feel Like Sufferin' -- Boogie On Reggae Woman --- M.S. -- I Feel Like Dynamite -- Meet Me In The Morning -- Bahia

Personnel	Instrument	Ex	To
Merl Saunders	keyboards
Chris Hayes	guitar	Sweet Meat	The Fools
Martin Fierro	sax and flute
Arthur Adams	guitar
Billy Fender	guitar
Tony Saunders	bass
Paul Humphrey	drums
Larry Van	drums
Sheila Escovedo	congas

Further Links: