The band was formed in 1968 by several Walthamstow Art School students, (located in United Kingdom near London). Mandrake Paddle Steamer (later known as Mandrake) was heavily influenced by the psychedelic music and hippie culture emerging from America's West Coast.

Mandrake Paddle Steamer opened for and supported many British acts of the day including Pink Floyd, Santana, Free, King Crimson, The Nice, Spirit and Vanilla Fudge.

Their first single included "Strange Walking Man" (side 1) and "Steam" (side 2) on EMI's Parlophone label (listed as R5780). It was notable as one of very first releases from Abbey Road Studios.

Mandrake Paddle Steamer disbanded around 1971.

Band members during their active period included:

Brian Engle (vocals, 1967-69)

Martin Briley (lead guitar, vocals)

Paul Riordan (bass, vocals)

Martin Hooker (keyboards)

Barry Nightingale (drums, 1967-69)

David Potts (drums, 1969-71)

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