The Illusion

The Illusion were an American psych-rock band from New York that released three albums on Steed Records between 1969 and 1970. Drummer Mike Ricciardella, keyboardist Mike Maniscalco, and guitarist Rich Cerniglia regrouped in hard-rockers Wiggy Bits in 1976. Maniscalco and Ricciardella subsequently reunited with Illusion-vocalist John Vinci in the band Network, which issued two 1977/78 albums on Epic. Cerniglia and Ricciardella teamed a third time in melodic-rockers Aviator in 1986. Cerniglia also played on Hall & Oates‘ 1974 War Babies album and did time in Ellen Shipley’s backing band.

Members: John Vinci (vocals), Rich Cerniglia (lead guitar), Mike Maniscalco (keyboards), Chuck Adler (bass), Mike Ricciardella (drums)

Discography:

• The Illusion (1969)
• Together (As a Way of Life) (1969)
• If It’s So (1970)