EKSEPTION Neder Prog Rock Netherlands

In the vibrant world of 1970s progressive rock, a unique thread emerged from the Netherlands – Ekseption. This innovative band dared to do the unexpected, seamlessly blending the intricate structures and melodies of classical music with the raw energy and experimentation of progressive rock. Their music was a sonic whirlwind, a mesmerizing collision of worlds that captivated audiences and left an enduring mark on the genre.

Origins and Influences

Ekseption was founded in 1967 by keyboardist Rick van der Linden. His formative years were steeped in the works of classical masters like Bach, Beethoven, and Tchaikovsky, influences that would profoundly shape the band's sound. Van der Linden was joined by Rein van den Broek (trumpet), Rob Kruisman (saxophone, flute), Cor Dekker (bass), and Peter de Leeuwe (drums), all skilled musicians drawn to the idea of pushing musical boundaries.

Transforming the Classics

Ekseption's approach was revolutionary. They took iconic classical pieces and reimagined them within a progressive rock context. Beethoven's "Fifth Symphony" morphed into a propulsive, keyboard-driven anthem, while Bach's "Air" was transformed into a haunting and melancholic ballad. They didn't simply cover these works; they deconstructed and rebuilt them, adding layers of improvisation, driving rhythms, and soaring solos.

This daring concept resonated with audiences hungry for something different. Ekseption's albums, starting with their self-titled debut in 1969, garnered critical acclaim and commercial success. They toured extensively, captivating audiences across Europe with their virtuosity and the sheer audacity of their musical vision.

Beyond the Classics

While their classical adaptations formed the core of their early work, Ekseption was not content to be defined by a single formula. They composed original pieces that showcased their progressive rock instincts, interweaving complex time signatures, extended instrumental passages, and a healthy dose of experimentation. Tracks like "The Fifth" and "Ritual Fire Dance" demonstrated their ability to create compelling and original music within the prog-rock idiom.

While Ekseption saw some line-up changes during their career, the core band members responsible for their groundbreaking sound throughout the 1970s were:

Rick van der Linden (keyboards): The band's founder, musical heart, and creative visionary. His classical background was the driving force behind Ekseption's unique take on progressive rock. Van der Linden's swirling organ work, virtuosic piano passages, and ingenious arrangements were fundamental to the band's sound.

Rein van den Broek (trumpet): Van den Broek added a distinctive and dramatic edge to Ekseption's music. His bold trumpet melodies soared above the rock instrumentation, bringing a unique color and power to their classical adaptations.

Rob Kruisman (saxophone, flute, vocals): Kruisman was a multi-instrumentalist who lent a jazzy and soulful flavor to Ekseption. His saxophone brought warmth and bluesy inflection, while his flute added a touch of whimsy and folk elements to their music.

Cor Dekker (bass): Dekker provided the rhythmic foundation, delivering a solid and supportive bass line that anchored Ekseption's often complex compositions.

Peter de Leeuwe (drums, vocals): De Leeuwe's energetic drumming was the pulsating force behind Ekseption. His intricate rhythms and dynamic fills pushed the band towards their progressive rock leanings.

Musical Synergy

Ekseption was more than just a collection of talented musicians. The interplay between these core members was what made their music truly special. Van der Linden's classical flourishes intertwined with Van den Broek's assertive trumpet lines, all underpinned by the rhythm section of Dekker and de Leeuwe. Kruisman's saxophone and flute acted both as a counterpoint and as a melodic extension.

This unique blend of instrumentation and the musical understanding between the members allowed Ekseption to craft their singular sound. Their ability to shift effortlessly between bombastic rock passages, intricate classical-inspired moments, and occasional jazzy flourishes spoke to their collective musicianship and unwavering sense of adventure.