GOLDEN EARRING - Contraband 12" Vinyl LP Album

- A Sonic Journey Through 1970s Dutch Rock Featuring Rare Guest Collaborations

Front cover of Golden Earring's 1976 LP 'Contraband', showing all five band members in theatrical costumes under stage lighting, standing in front of dark curtains. From left to right: a man in trench coat and hat with guitar case, a maid costume with lace gloves, a ballet dancer in white tights and cape, a man in a white

Golden Earring's 1976 album, "Contraband," epitomizes the 1970s rock scene. The LP, a blend of live energy and studio innovation, mirrors the era's musical evolution. Characterized by analog warmth, the production reflects meticulous attention. The album cover, a visual ode to 1970s European aesthetics, complements the LP's sonic journey. "Contraband" remains a cherished artifact, encapsulating the spirit of a musical epoch.

GOLDEN EARRING is one of the oldest Rock bands from the Netherlands and was founded in 1961 in the city of "The Hague". initially this band was called "Golden Earrings" and they dropped the 's' in 1969. The band was formed by Rinus Gerritsen and George Kooymans joined by Barry Hay and Cees Zuiderwijk, this formation has been stable until today (with some breaks in between ).

"Contraband" Album Description:

In the illustrious landscape of 1970s rock music, the Dutch band Golden Earring left an indelible mark with their 1976 album, "Contraband." This vinyl LP, a testament to the band's prowess and innovation, encapsulates the essence of a musical era.

The 1970s were a tumultuous period marked by social upheavals, political movements, and a cultural shift that resonated across the globe. Music became a powerful medium for expressing the spirit of the times, and "Contraband" emerged as a significant contribution from the European rock scene.

Production during this period was characterized by a blend of analog recording techniques and the emergence of nascent digital technologies. Golden Earring, like many of their contemporaries, navigated the challenges of this transitional phase in the music industry. The result was an album that seamlessly wove together the raw energy of live performances with the evolving studio sophistication of the time.

"Contraband" stands as a testament to the band's artistic evolution. The album showcases Golden Earring's ability to experiment with different musical styles, ranging from hard rock to progressive elements, while maintaining a cohesive sonic identity. The production values on the vinyl LP reflect the meticulous attention to detail that defined the era, with analog warmth permeating each track.

The cover art of the album, a visual representation of the band's creative ethos, captures the essence of the 1970s aesthetic. Designed with a keen eye for symbolism and artistic expression, the album cover is a snapshot of the visual language prevalent in European publications during that time.

As listeners immerse themselves in the tracks of "Contraband," they are transported to an era where rock music was a cultural force and vinyl was the medium that brought it to life. The LP format, with its distinct sound quality and tactile experience, became a cherished possession for music enthusiasts.

In the context of European publications of the 1970s, reviews and features on albums like "Contraband" were pivotal in shaping the narrative of the music scene. Critics and journalists, adopting a distinctive writing style, delved into the nuances of each release, providing readers with insights into the artistic vision behind the music.

Production & Recording Information

The album: "GOLDEN EARRING - Contraband" was produced by: Golden Earring for Red Bullet Productions , John Kriek, Damon Lyon-Shaw (Trivia; Lyon-Shaw also worked on the 1976 album "Blue For You" by "Status Quo ")

Sound Engineer: Robin Freeman (Trivia: Robin Freeman worked also on the albums for Highway Chile and Phoney and the Hardcore)

Sound Mix: John Kriek, Steve Lillywhite, Damon Lyon-Shaw

Cutting Engineer: Melvyn Abrahams

Art direction and Artwork: Koos Van Oostrom

Music Genre:

Rock, Pop-Rock, Nederbeat

Label & Catalognr:

Polydor 2344 059

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1976 Made in Germany

Musicians (Uncredited):
  • Barry Hay - flute, vocals
  • George Kooymans - guitar, vocals
  • Rinus Gerritsen - bass, keyboards
  • Cesar Zuiderwijk - drums
  • Guest Musicians:
  • Eelco Gelling - guitar
  • Robert Jan Stips - keyboards

    Biography of: Robert Jan Stips is a highly talented and versatile Dutch musician, singer, songwriter, and composer. Born on 4 December 1950, in The Hague, Netherlands, Stips has had a significant impact on the Dutch music scene and has garnered international recognition for his contributions. With a career spanning over five decades, Stips has showcased his exceptional skills across various genres and has been an influential figure in the progressive rock and pop music scenes.

    Read more...

    Stips' musical journey began in the late 1960s when he formed his first band, Supersister. As the lead vocalist, keyboardist, and main songwriter for the group, he helped shape their unique sound, characterized by complex arrangements, witty lyrics, and a fusion of jazz, rock, and classical influences. Supersister achieved considerable success, releasing several critically acclaimed albums, including "Present from Nancy" and "To the Highest Bidder", and captivating audiences with their energetic live performances.

    Following the disbandment of Supersister in 1974, Stips embarked on a diverse and illustrious career, collaborating with numerous renowned artists and bands. He became a member of the Dutch progressive rock band Golden Earring, lending his keyboard skills to their music and contributing to their albums "Contraband" and "Prisoner of the Night". Stips also collaborated with the legendary English musician Robert Fripp, known for his work with King Crimson, resulting in the creation of the album "God Save the Queen/Under Heavy Manners".

    In the 1980s, Stips formed a new band called Sweet d'Buster, which explored a more pop-oriented sound. The group achieved considerable commercial success, releasing albums such as "Friction" and "Gigs". Stips also contributed his talents as a keyboardist and songwriter to other Dutch bands like Transister and Nits, further establishing his reputation as a sought-after musician and collaborator.

    As a solo artist, Stips released several albums, showcasing his abilities as a singer-songwriter and exploring different musical styles. His solo work includes the albums "Egotrip", "Greyhound", and "Rum & Coca Cola". Each release demonstrated Stips' versatility, as he seamlessly transitioned between genres and experimented with innovative sounds and arrangements.

    In addition to his work as a performer, Stips has made significant contributions as a composer for film, television, and theater. He has composed music for numerous Dutch films and theater productions, infusing his compositions with his distinctive style and musicality.

    Throughout his career, Stips has received recognition and accolades for his contributions to the music industry. He was honored with the Edison Award, the most prestigious music award in the Netherlands, and has been recognized as one of the most influential Dutch musicians of his generation.

  • Nippy Noya - percussion, conga
  • Patricia Paay - vocals
    Patricia Paay ( full-name: Patricia Anglaia Margareth Paaij ) is a Dutch multi-talented singer, tv-host, glamour model and sister of the singer Yvonne Keeley. Since 1966 Paay has released many singles, and released in 1977 the album "The Lady Is A Champ", she also performs as background singer on the album "Contraband" by "Golden Earring".
Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Bombay 3:52
  2. Sueleen 5:38
  3. Con Man 7:08
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Mad Love's Comin' 7:45
  2. Fightin' Windmills 4:40
  3. Faded Jeans 5:06
  4. Time's Up 3:56
High Resolution & Quality Photos
Front Cover Photo Of GOLDEN EARRING - Contraband
Front cover of Golden Earring's 1976 LP 'Contraband', showing all five band members in theatrical costumes under stage lighting, standing in front of dark curtains. From left to right: a man in trench coat and hat with guitar case, a maid costume with lace gloves, a ballet dancer in white tights and cape, a man in a white shirt kneeling with microphone, and a man in dark pants holding a red puppet. Polydor logo in bottom right.

This is the front cover of Golden Earring's 1976 album Contraband. It presents the five band members standing on a stage, dramatically lit and framed by dark, velvety theater curtains. Each band member wears a playful, theatrical costume that reflects an air of absurdist humor and performance art sensibility.

From left to right: The first man wears a beige trench coat tied at the waist with white pants and brown shoes. He tips his hat while holding a worn guitar case slung over his shoulder. The second member is dressed in a maid's black dress with lace gloves, a white apron, and a headband, exuding irony and theatrical flair.

At the center stands a figure in white ballet tights, white shoes, and a short toga-style cape adorned with silver sequins on one shoulder. He stands confidently with arms crossed and a slight smile, striking a stage pose. Beside him, another man crouches down, wearing a white dress shirt, black trousers, and black shoes, energetically holding a vintage-style microphone, caught mid-performance.

The final man on the far right wears black trousers, boots, and a white shirt. He holds a ventriloquist’s dummy with a bright red hat, adding a whimsical and surreal element. In the upper right corner, the catalog number “STEREO 2344 059” is printed. The stylized “Golden Earring” logo curves above the album title “Contraband,” handwritten in red within a gold circle.

At the bottom right of the cover, the familiar red-and-black Polydor logo signifies the record label. The overall visual tone is warm and theatrical, suggesting that this is a band unafraid of self-parody and visual experimentation.

Photo Of The Back Cover GOLDEN EARRING - Contraband
Back cover of Golden Earring's 1976 LP 'Contraband' shows a staged carnival-like scene with all five band members in costume around a colorful faux theater set labeled 'Original Contraband'. Tracklist is printed on the left, Polydor logo top right, and a dog stands in the foreground.

This is the back cover of Golden Earring's 1976 album Contraband, designed as a surreal stage tableau resembling a vintage traveling carnival or vaudeville act. The scene takes place on what appears to be a dusty, reddish stage floor, enhancing the theatrical setting.

At the center is a colorful, cartoonish archway that reads “Original Contra Band” in playful circus-style letters. The arch is flanked by stylized pillars and art deco panels, and features illustrations of airplanes and futuristic trains under the theme “How to Civilization!” evoking retro-futurism.

Beneath the arch, three of the band members are seated or standing in costume: one in a sailor outfit, one dressed in a maid’s uniform, and another in white tights and ballet shoes, slumped as if exhausted. To the left, a large vertical banner reads “Sponsored by The Police,” satirically echoing sideshow advertising.

A fourth band member stands to the far left in a trench coat and hat, similar to the front cover, accompanied by a black-and-white dog looking attentively at the scene. On the far right, the fifth band member sits relaxed on a police-style motorcycle that leans into the frame with its headlight shining, enhancing the theatrical illusion.

The track listing is neatly printed in white on the upper left corner under the heading “Side 1” and “Side 2.” Each track includes its title and duration. In the upper right, the catalog number "STEREO 2344 059" is visible along with the red Polydor label.

Photo Side One GOLDEN EARRING - Contraband
Side One label of Golden Earring's 1976 LP 'Contraband', red Polydor label with black text showing track titles Bombay, Sue Leen, and Con Man, marked Made in Germany, Stereo 33, catalog number 2344 059.

This is a close-up photograph of Side One of Golden Earring's 1976 vinyl LP Contraband, showcasing the original red Polydor label pressed in Germany.

The center label features a bold black Polydor logo and border across the top. Below it, the band's name GOLDEN EARRING is printed in uppercase letters. In the left center quadrant, the GEMA logo appears alongside the words "Made in Germany." To the right, the catalog number 2344 059 is printed in a black box beside the word “STEREO” and the speed “33”.

The album title CONTRABAND is printed in bold uppercase below the center hole. Underneath, the three tracks on Side One are listed:
1. Bombay – 3:52
2. Sue Leen – 5:38
3. Con Man – 7:08

A production credit reads: “Produced by Golden Earring for Red Bullet Productions.” All songs are credited to G. Kooymans and B. Hay. At the bottom edge, the copyright is marked © 1976 RED BULLET PRODUCTIONS B.V.

Surrounding the outer label in small black text is the standard German copyright protection clause printed in German: “Urheber- und Leistungsschutzrechte. Besonders Vervielfältigung (ausser zum persönlichen Gebrauch), Vermietung, Aufführung und Sendung verboten.”

Photo of Side Two GOLDEN EARRING - Contraband
Side Two label of Golden Earring's 1976 LP 'Contraband', red Polydor label with black text listing Mad Love's Comin', Fightin' Windmills, Faded Jeans, and Time's Up. Marked Made in Germany, Stereo 33, catalog number 2344 059.

This is a close-up image of Side Two of Golden Earring’s 1976 vinyl LP Contraband, featuring the distinctive red Polydor center label used on many European pressings of the era.

Dominating the top of the label is the Polydor logo in black, followed by the bold uppercase text GOLDEN EARRING. On the left, a boxed section includes the GEMA rights society and “Made in Germany” notice. Opposite this on the right is the catalog number 2344 059 with the format STEREO 33, and the number 2 denoting Side Two.

The album title CONTRABAND appears centered below the spindle hole. Beneath that, the four tracks for Side Two are listed with duration times:
1. Mad Love's Comin' – 7:45
2. Fightin' Windmills – 4:40
3. Faded Jeans – 5:06
4. Time's Up – 3:56

Below the track list is a production credit that reads: “Produced by Golden Earring for Red Bullet Productions.” All songs are written by G. Kooymans and B. Hay. The copyright statement at the bottom of the label states © 1976 RED BULLET PRODUCTIONS B.V.

The outer ring of the label is printed with a circular copyright disclaimer in German, which reads: “Urheber- und Leistungsschutzrechte. Besonders Vervielfältigung (ausser zum persönlichen Gebrauch), Vermietung, Aufführung und Sendung verboten.”

FEATURED GOLDEN EARRING VINYL RECORDS

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GOLDEN EARRING - The Best Of Golden Earring 10 Years 20 Hits

"Golden Earring's 1975 compilation album, 'The Best Of Golden Earring 10 Years 20 Hits,' is a sonic journey through the vibrant '70s rock scene. Released by Arcade Records, the LP features iconic tracks like 'Radar Love' and 'Another 45 Miles,' showcasing the Dutch band's musical evolution. This collectors' gem, in 12" Vinyl LP format, transcends time, highlighting Golden Earring's enduring legacy in the annals of rock history."

The Best Of Golden Earring 10 Years 20 Hits 12" Vinyl LP
Thumbnail of GOLDEN EARRING - Contraband 12" Vinyl LP Band album front cover
GOLDEN EARRING - Contraband

Golden Earring's 1976 album, "Contraband," epitomizes the 1970s rock scene. The LP, a blend of live energy and studio innovation, mirrors the era's musical evolution. Characterized by analog warmth, the production reflects meticulous attention. The album cover, a visual ode to 1970s European aesthetics, complements the LP's sonic journey. "Contraband" remains a cherished artifact, encapsulating the spirit of a musical epoch.

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GOLDEN EARRING – To The Hilt

Golden Earring's 1976 album, "To The Hilt," is a sonic masterpiece featuring a fusion of rock, prog, and hard rock. Produced by the band and Fred Haayen, it showcases meticulous sound engineering by John Kriek and Robert Ash. The iconic album cover, designed by Hipgnosis, reflects the surreal and hypnotic spirit of the music.

To The Hilt 12" Vinyl LP Album
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GOLDEN EARRING - Live ( Double LP )

Golden Earring's Live Vinyl 2LP Album, released in 1977 Germany, epitomizes the musical spirit of the era. Produced by John Kriek for Red Bullet Productions, the album seamlessly captures the raw energy of the band's live performance. With a striking cover illustration by Koos van Oostrom and photography by Paul Gerritsma and Dorine v/d Valk, it became a cultural touchstone, leaving an enduring legacy in the musical landscape of 1977.

Live ( Double LP ) 12" 2LP Vinyl
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GOLDEN EARRING - Prisoner Of The Night

Golden Earring's 1980 release, "Prisoner Of The Night" (titled "Long Blond Animal" in the USA), epitomizes the dynamic crossroads of rock music in the early '80s. Meticulously produced, it blends the band's mature sound with Robert Jan Stips' unique contributions. From infectious energy to introspective moments, the album remains a sonic masterpiece, leaving an indelible mark on Dutch rock history and influencing subsequent generations.

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GOLDEN EARRINGS - Winter Harvest Nederbeat

The Golden Earrings' 1967 release, "Winter Harvest," encapsulates the Nederbeat spirit of the late '60s. Recorded during 1965-66, the album, with the 'S' in the band's name, captures the essence of Dutch counterculture and musical experimentation. The LP's production reflects the technical challenges of the era, offering a raw, authentic sound. This timeless gem stands as a testament to the band's evolution and its role in shaping the dynamic cultural landscape of the 1960s.

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