There are pages and pages of returns when you google Jack Kittel but very little information about the loose screw who recorded "Psycho" in 1974. Liner notes from Ace's "Dead! The Grim Reaper's Greatest Hits" says that he is/was from Michigan and that's about all that I can find.
"Psycho" was written by Leon Payne and originally recorded by Eddie Noack in 1968. It received no airplay and immediately became one of those titles prefaced with "Hey, did you ever a hear a song called...". Jack Kittel released his version six years later on Atlanta's own GRC label, home to Sammy John's blandly licentious "Chevy Van". From what I've read, everyone seems to be in agreement that Jack's straight-faced delivery makes it the choice of choice, besting a cover by Elvis Costello during his almost blue period. It also makes a perfect antidote to the equally ghastly "The Christmas Shoes"
"Psycho" is disturbing enough but its full creep credentials are found outside of the grooves and in the story of GRC label owner, Michael Thevis, known as "The Scarface of Porn", who started the label in an attempt to hide his more illicit gains. Read more about Michael Thevis and you'll see what I mean.
Have a devilish weekend.
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