KERRS PINK

A legend of the Norwegian prog scene,KEERS PINK started under the name ''Cash Pink'' and we have to go back in May 1972 in the small town of Trømborg to find their early beginnings with bassist Jostein Hansen forming the band.Guitarist Harald Lymtot joined soon after,while several members came and go in a 5 year period.1977,after the band was renamed to KEERS PINK,keyboardist Halvar Haugerud joins them and he has been a consistent member since then.After playing a great number of lives,The first album was released as self-titled on Pottittskiver in 1980.

STYLE: This is quite relaxed progressive rock in general with lots of psychedelic elements, light Folk influences and a heavy amount of melodic guitars.Lymtot is in the center of the arrangements,delivering very melodic work in the vein of ANDY LATIMER with nice solos here and there,but the Norwegian vocals add the appropriate Scandinavian flavor.The calmer parts have an intense Blues/Psychedelic feeling,while Haugerud seems to be playing a b-role,despite using a variety of keys.Keyboards are very distinctive and soft,the same thing with a couple of flute parts.So,melodic guitar-driven prog is the stuff here.

INFLUENCES/SOUNDS LIKE: With Lymtot being the main figure,CAMEL's characteristic style is more than evident,especially from their first two albums.But do not expect some PETER BARDENS' keyboards,as afore mentioned.Several Psych/Prog bands from Scandinavia come also to mind,with KAIPA being the closest comparison.

PLUS: The guitar work is not only melodic,but very inspired as well with some great moments,that stick in your mind.Not a weak track,all arrangements are on the same good level.Classic Prog fans will indicate a few symphonic parts as well.The few flute parts are quite strong.Strong and tight rhythm section as well.

MINUS: The album tends to be rather monotonous,as everything comes around Lymtot's guitars.The keyboards are lost in the background,while plenty of slow-tempo tracks are somewhat boring.Vocals are mediocre and rather indifferent.

WILL APPEAL TO: CAMEL fans for sure!Anyone after melodic or Scandinavian Prog with psychedelic influences and/or a sound of the old-school should also approach.

CONCLUSION/RATING: Guitar work is excellent,all tracks are qualitive,but the album lacks in varety.Not bad,but not that good.No more or less than 3 stars.Dedicated CAMEL followers should add a half star.