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The Mops are one of Japan's most recognized "group sounds" bands, particularly celebrated for their psychedelic phase. Founded in 1966 by high school friends Mikiharu Suzuki (drums), Taro Miyuki (guitar), Masaru Hoshi (lead guitar), and Kaoru Murakami (bass), they initially played instrumental rock inspired by the popular Ventures. The group later welcomed Hiromitsu Suzuki, Mikiharu's older brother, as their main vocalist, sharing the role with Hoshi. The Mops began performing at clubs and discos but did not stand out immediately. Their turning point came in the summer of 1967 when their manager, inspired by the San Francisco hippie movement, introduced them to Jefferson Airplane's music. This led the band, particularly Hiromitsu, to embrace a psychedelic sound, resulting in their signing with JVC Records. Their single "Asamade Matenai" reached #38 in November 1967. In April 1968, they released the album "Psychedelic Sound in Japan," characterized by flower power aesthetics, cosmic artwork, ethnic clothing, fuzz guitars, and sitar. The album featured covers of popular songs, including Jefferson Airplane's "Someone To Love" and "White Rabbit," as well as the Doors' "Light My Fire." The Mops also performed with lighting effects and occasionally blindfolded, aiming to replicate the influence of drugs. Despite their psychedelic label, many of their original

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