The Critters were an American pop/rock band that formed in New Jersey in the early 1960s. The original lineup consisted of Chris Darway (vocals, guitar), Don Ciccone (vocals, guitar), Jim Ryan (keyboard), Ken Gorka (bass), Jack Decker (drums), and Bob Podstawski (sax).

The band's early sound was heavily influenced by the British Invasion bands like The Beatles and The Rolling Stones. They began playing in local clubs and eventually signed a recording contract with Kapp Records.

In 1966, The Critters released their biggest hit, "Mr. Dieingly Sad," which reached No. 17 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song was written by the band's guitarist, Don Ciccone, and it featured his distinctive falsetto vocals.

The band continued to release singles and albums throughout the late 1960s, including "Younger Girl," "Don't Let the Rain Fall Down on Me," and "Bad Misunderstanding." They also toured extensively, opening for acts like The Beach Boys, The Lovin' Spoonful, and The Byrds.

In 1969, The Critters disbanded, with some members going on to pursue solo careers or join other bands. Don Ciccone went on to become a member of The Four Seasons, while Jim Ryan joined The American Breed.

Despite their relatively short career, The Critters were influential in the development of pop/rock music and their music continues to be enjoyed by fans today.

From Plainfield, New Jersey, USA. Named after the cereal "Crispy Critters". Group formed from classmates at Plainfield, Westfield, and Scotchplains/Fanwood High Schools. -GSH

• Jim Ryan - guitar
• Paul Iovino - guitar
• Ken Gorka - bass
• Chris Darway - keyboards
• Jack Decker - drums
  

• Jim Ryan - guitar
• Ken Gorka - bass
• Chris Darway - keyboards
• Jack Decker - drums
• Don Ciccone - guitar/vocals
• Bob Podstawski - sax

1. "Younger Girl" (1966) - Singles: "Younger Girl"; "Mr. Dieingly Sad"

• Jim Ryan - guitar
• Ken Gorka - bass
• Bob Spinella - keyboards
• Jeff Pelosi - drums

1. "Touch And Go With The Critters" (1967)

1. "The Best of The Critters" (1984)
2. "New York Bound: The Best of The Critters" (1986)
   
3. "Anthology: The Complete Kapp Recordings, 1965-1967" (1994)