My original intention was to try to list the members of
each incarnation of The Exiles in some sort of chronological order. But
this proved nigh impossible with the (often contradictory) information
I have!
So for now here is a straightforward list. Apart from Merrell
Fankhauser and Jeff Cotton the following musicians had a part
to play in the story of The Exiles:-
John Day
keyboards, backing vocals
Joined in the summer of 1964 along with Danny Martin.
John French
drums
In and out of the band filling in on drums for gigs and in the studio.
However, John is doubtful about some of the tracks he has been listed
as having some involvement with.
Jim Ferguson
bass
In the original line-up. In the late 70s Jim teamed up with Lancaster
musician Denny King in an artist management company - White Tree Management. Jim died suddenly from a heart attack in 2016 shortly after playing bass alongside Merrell Fankhauser for his Tiki Lounge TV show.
Don Giesen
drums
Had a short spell with The Exiles in 1966 before they metamorphosed
into The Allusions and then followed Jeff into John French's band, Blues
In A Bottle.
Greg Hampton
drums
In the original line-up, but was drafted and didn't return to the area
until 1970 when he hardly recognised his old bandmates in MU. Turned
up on fellow Lancastrian Denny King's LP Evil Wind Blowing in 1972
along with ex-Magic Band members Doug Moon and Alex St Claire
Dan Martin
drums
Joined in the summer of 1964 replacing Greg Hampton.
Dan Stevens
sax
In the original line-up but soon dropped because the sax was no longer
a 'hip' instrument.
Mark Thompson
keyboards, backing vocals
Bruce Urich
trumpet
Possibly only a member for a recording session.
Larry Willey
bass
Joined Merrell and Jeff in MU but left when the band relocated to Maui.
More info
Randy Wimer
drums
Joined Merrell, Jeff and Larry Willey in MU. Moved to Maui with the
band but left along with Jeff to join the Christian ministry.
