Peninsula Records

The Riot Squad
Peninsula 001 (1968)

20997 - Come On, Let's Go (Valens)

The Riot Squad

Peninsula 001
20998 - Ferry 'Cross The Mersey

The Prophets Of Doom
Peninsula 002 (1968)
21891 - I Told You



21892 - Baba-Do-Wah

x x x

Peninsula Records was an unofficial "division" of Bands Unlimited, the Escanaba-based talent agency run by Gene Smiltneck, who produced and engineered Peninsula's two singles. (The label was actually owned by Gene's brother Leon; and there is no connection between this Peninsula label and an earlier Peninsula label based in Cadillac, MI). The Prophets of Doom were one of Bands Unlimited's top attractions in the late '60s; "I Told You" was written by the band's bassist, Dave Watchorn, while "Baba-Do-Wah" was written by one David Brooks.

Peninsula's second release was by The Riot Squad (not the British band), who turned out to be the dominant force in the Escanaba music scene; for more than two decades after their breakup, Escanaba's most popular local bands tended to be "descendants" of the Squad. Side A is an eccentric version of the Ritchie Valens oldie, with odd chord and tempo changes and a scorching guitar solo; Side B is the Gerry & the Pacemakers hit with lyrics hopelessly mangled.

[Above information was found HERE]

Further reading (much detailled, courtesy of Steve Seymour) :

• Prophets of Doom aced debut
• Peninsula label issued singles