Marlys Roe & The Talismen

The Talismen established their roots in Brookings, South Dakota in 1960 when John Murphy and Jeff Ferrell paired up and within the year were joined by Pat O'Connell and Tom Hoy. As the band developed, they began playing at school functions, auditoriums, fairs, and street dances throughout South Dakota. Entering their college days, the band added saxophonist Bob Trieds, who was replaced soon after by Dennis Gerald. The group quickly earned their way into the dance hall circuit and club venues. Teaming up with booking agent Jimmy Thomas during the early 60's they toured with Jimmy Soul and Dale & Grace. By 1966, the core members of what would become known as Marlys Roe and The Talismen were Murphy, Gerald, O'Connell, Wynn Kanten, Mike Cannon, and Marlys Roe. Frequently the band was joined by additional horn players and performed throughout a 6 state area and Southern Canada. Marlys Roe and The Talismen recorded 45's in both Milford, IA and Minneapolis, MN. Both records, "Remember September" and "Walking Proud" received widespread air play in the Midwest.