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.
In the vibrant tapestry of European rock history, Golden Earring stands as a formidable presence, and their 1980 release, "Prisoner Of The Night," encapsulates a distinct moment in the band's evolution. This album, known as "Long Blond Animal" in the USA, not only showcases the musical prowess of the Dutch rock band but also reflects the broader artistic and cultural landscape of the time.
The Time Period: 1980
The early 1980s marked a dynamic era for rock music, witnessing a transition from the rebellious spirit of the 1970s to the diverse sonic experiments of the upcoming decade. "Prisoner Of The Night" emerged against this backdrop, capturing the essence of the evolving musical landscape. The album's release in 1980 places it at a crossroads, blending the residual energy of the '70s with the emerging styles that would define the '80s.
Production Excellence: Crafting Sonic Landscapes
The production of "Prisoner Of The Night" is a testament to Golden Earring's commitment to sonic excellence. The album presents a polished sound, characterized by the interplay of guitars, drums, and distinctive vocals. The production quality is a reflection of the band's maturity and experience, with each track meticulously arranged to create a cohesive musical journey.
A notable highlight of the album is the participation of Robert Jan Stips as a special guest. Stips, a versatile musician and composer, adds a unique layer to Golden Earring's sound. His collaboration with the band enriches the album, contributing to its depth and complexity.
Robert Jan Stips, born 4 February 1950, is a Dutch musician and songwriter. Emerging in the 1970s, he gained prominence as a member of bands like Supersister and Golden Earring. Stips is renowned for his versatile contributions to the Dutch music scene, showcasing prowess in progressive rock and pop. His enduring impact resonates across decades, marking him as a key figure in European musical history.
Exploring the Tracks: A Musical Odyssey
"Prisoner Of The Night" features a diverse array of tracks that showcase Golden Earring's ability to traverse different musical territories. From the infectious energy of the title track to the introspective moments found in other compositions, the album invites listeners on a captivating musical odyssey.
The USA release, titled "Long Blond Animal," adds an interesting dimension to the album's narrative. Renaming an album for a specific market was not uncommon during this period, and it often played a role in shaping the reception of the music in different regions.
This album "GOLDEN EARRING - Prisoner Of The Night" includes the original custom inner sleeve with album details, complete lyrics of all songs.
The album: "GOLDEN EARRING - Prisoner Of The Night" was produced by: George Kooymans
Sound/Recording Engineer(s): John Kriek
Sound Mix: John Kriek and George Kooymans
This album was recorded at: The Golden Earring Workshop , Zoetermeer, Netherlands, with the "Mira Sound" Mobile Studio
Mixed at: Sound Push Studios, Blaricum, Netherlands.
Mastered at Sterling Sound , New York
Album cover photography: Kees Tabak
Classic Rock, Hard Rock, Nederbeat
Polydor 2344 161
Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram
1980 Netherlands
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.
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.
George Kooymans, the celebrated Dutch guitarist, songwriter, and co-founder of Golden Earring, has passed away at the age of 77 after a long and courageous battle with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). His death marks the end of an era for Dutch rock music and leaves a profound silence where once there was the fierce echo of electric riffs and melodic innovation.
Born in The Hague on March 11, 1948, George Kooymans began his musical journey in the early 1960s, co-founding Golden Earring (initially known as The Golden Earrings) at the tender age of 13. Over the decades, he would become the band's creative cornerstone, writing many of their biggest hits and contributing a distinctive guitar sound that fused raw energy with lyrical elegance.
Kooymans was the composer of "Twilight Zone," the band's breakthrough hit in the United States in 1982, and co-wrote the anthemic "Radar Love," a rock classic that still echoes through concert halls, car radios, and playlists across the world. His guitar work was both muscular and melodic, driving the band's success while influencing generations of musicians.
Throughout a career that spanned over 50 years, Kooymans remained dedicated to his craft, performing on stage with unrelenting passion and humility. In early 2021, he publicly revealed his ALS diagnosis, leading to Golden Earring’s decision to disband, a poignant closure for a group that had stayed together with its classic lineup for nearly five decades.
Beyond the stage, George Kooymans was a quiet and thoughtful man, known for his dry humor, love of Americana music, and deep friendship with his bandmates, especially Barry Hay, Rinus Gerritsen, and Cesar Zuiderwijk. He also released solo material and worked as a producer for other Dutch artists, always with a keen ear for authenticity and emotion.
George spent his final years surrounded by loved ones and supported by the deep admiration of fans in the Netherlands and far beyond. His bravery in facing ALS, a disease that robbed him of the ability to play but never his dignity or spirit, inspired many.
He is survived by his wife and family, and by the legacy of a band that put Dutch rock on the global map. George Kooymans may have left the stage, but his music will reverberate for generations to come.
"There's a feeling I get when I look to the West..."
"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
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.
Contraband 12" Vinyl LP
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
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
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.
Prisoner Of The Night 12" Vinyl LP
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.
Winter Harvest Nederbeat 12" Vinyl LP