KAYAK a Dutch progressive rock band formed in 1972 in the city Hilversum by Ton Scherpenzeel and Pim Koopman. Core members of Kayak have been Ton Scherpenzeel, Max Werner, Johan Slager and Pim Koopman. This discography has information and album photos of some the albums they released between 1974 and 1981.
Kayak is a Dutch rock band that has had a significant impact on the progressive rock genre. Their blend of symphonic rock and pop melodies helped to create a distinctive sound that resonated with audiences in the Netherlands and beyond. Although their popularity waned in the 1980s, the band has continued to record and tour, and their music remains influential to this day.
Kayak is a Dutch progressive rock band that was formed in 1972 in the city of Hilversum. Over the years, the band has released numerous albums and gained a loyal following in the Netherlands and abroad.
History
Kayak was founded by keyboard player Ton Scherpenzeel and drummer Pim Koopman. The band's early lineup also included Max Werner on vocals, Johan Slager on guitar, and Cees van Leeuwen on bass. In 1973, Kayak released their self-titled debut album, which received critical acclaim in the Netherlands. The album showcased the band's signature sound, which combined symphonic rock with pop melodies and catchy hooks.
In 1974, Kayak released their second album, "Royal Bed Bouncer," which was another critical and commercial success. The album included the hit single "Chance for a Lifetime," which reached the top 10 in the Dutch charts. Kayak continued to release albums throughout the 1970s, including "The Last Encore" and "Starlight Dancer."
The band's popularity waned in the 1980s, and they went on hiatus for several years. In 1999, they reformed and began touring and recording new material. Since then, Kayak has released several more albums, including "Merlin - Bard of the Unseen" and "Seventeen."
Musical Style
Kayak's music can be described as a blend of progressive rock, symphonic rock, and pop. The band's early albums often featured complex arrangements and extended instrumental sections, but they also had a strong sense of melody and catchy choruses. This made their music accessible to a wide audience, and they became one of the most popular bands in the Netherlands in the 1970s.
One of the hallmarks of Kayak's sound is the use of keyboard and synthesizer textures. Ton Scherpenzeel's keyboard playing was a central element of the band's music, and he was known for his innovative use of synthesizers and other electronic instruments. The band also featured strong vocal harmonies, which added to their overall sound.
Contributions to Rock Music
Kayak's contributions to the rock music genre are significant, particularly in their native Netherlands. They helped to popularize progressive rock in the country, and their melodic style had a lasting impact on Dutch music. Their influence can be heard in the work of other Dutch bands, such as Golden Earring and Focus.
Kayak was also notable for their use of concept albums, which were popular in the 1970s. Their albums often told a story through a series of songs, and this helped to create a sense of unity and coherence across the entire album.
Bellaphon 260-07-053 , 1982 , Germany
This album "Eyewitness (Live)" was recorded live at the Wisseloord Studios, Hilversum Holland.
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Vertigo 6360 854 , 1976 , Netherlands
"The Last Encore" is the fourth album by the Dutch progressive rock band Kayak. This is the original version released in 1976, it was produced by Kayak and recorded Morgan Studios, Brussels during May-July 1976.
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Vertigo 6399 115 , 1981 , West-Germany
Merlin is the eighth studio album by Dutch band Kayak. The first half of the original LP is a concept fantasy story about Merlin the Magician. The album was produced by Gerrit Jan Leenders and Kayak.
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Vertigo 6413 960 , 1980 , Netherlands
Periscope Life is the 1980 album by the Dutch progressive rock band Kayak, it was produced by John Tilly and Kayak and recorded at Village Recorder in Los Angeles, California.
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Vertigo 9198 187 , 1978 , France
"Phantom of the Night" is the 6th studio album by Dutch Progressive rock band Kayak. "Ruthless Queen" was released as a single, becoming the bands biggest hit, nearing the top of the charts in Holland.
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