SEE SEE THE SUN

Kayak is Dutch symphonic prog / pop group that scored some major hits in their home country during the seventies. From this debut album the street-organ infused 'Mammoth' and the melodic 'See see the Sun' would launch the band into the public domain. Whereas Kayak reaches some real highlights on their debut album, it also has some major flaws; like the stupendous progressive noodling of 'Mouldy Wood' - a song which also has a very catchy main melodic theme. Ton Scherpenzeel (keyboards) and Pim Koopman (drums, keyboards) are both very melodic songwriters and their Genesis and Yes influences shine through here. The either staccato or classical influenced piano playing by Scherpenzeel would remain a recognizable feature. The recording sound is also exemplary of how Kayak's progressive period would sound, though I think the band sound way more steady on its second album. The mellotron and the often falsetto vocals of Max Werner add a toch of authenticity, though this might be an acquired taste. By a lot of progressive rock listeners the Kayak debut album is considered to be their most progressive. I myself would recommend listening to 'Kayak II' and the moody 'The Last Encore' first, though this album has some strong melodic songs the band would keep playing through its lengthy career.