The band started out as The Lost World in 1965, playing as an acoustic folk three piece. They were soon joined by Clive and started moving into a rock direction.
In 1966 they changed their name to Illinois State.
In the early days they went through a number of singers, including Jean (a teach from St Austell) and Brian Jenkins, who would stay with the band for about a year.
In 1968 John Pearn and Chris Robins joined the band. Around this time founder member Clive left the band when he got married.
They became a popular harmony pop band, and were affiliated with the St Austell YMCA, where the band would perform regularly. Due to this association the band would on occasion provide the entertainment at religious events.
The band would play all around Cornwall, taking in all the big venues and supporting many big name visiting artists.
Graham left the band in 1969 when he got married and Chris would leave in 1970 to join the police force. The band then folded.
A YMCA gig at The Ponsmere Hotel, Perranporth. 1969
On stage at the St Austell YMCA, 1968
A YMCA event in Newquay where the band performed. |
