The Keyboard Circle (1976)

Hey there - today I want to squeeze in a quick post for a one-off album I really dig. I've decided to start sharing albums regardless of digital availability - because why the heck not. I stumbled across this one strictly because of the release year, 1976. While the 1970s are my favorite decade musically, 1975-1979 are my favorite stretch of the decade. I often just spend time searching releases by year in hopes of finding something new to me to; which is how I found this one.

The Keyboard Circle is a Dutch trio with a unique set-up of 2 keyboardists and a drummer. We have Rob Franken on the Rhodes, clavinet and synthesizer, Jan Huydts on Rhodes and synthesizer and Henk Zomer on drums. Not released until 2009, 1976 was recorded live in the Netherlands at a venue in Pinjacker on February 8th, 1976.

The album has a great fusion sound through and through and is made up of mostly originals. Exceptions being "Blue Bossa" from Kenny Dorham and the final two tracks, "Tamotua" from fellow Dutchman Rik Elings from the band Scope and the "Kumquat Kids" from one of my all-time favorites, trumpeter Eddie Henderson. 

Both keyboardists are outstanding and I really dig Zomer's busy drumming style. I'm not a musician so I don't know technical terms but the overall sound of this record is great. My favorite stretch is 6-8, "For Elaine", "Basic Train" and "Sound Circle/All About Us." All I can say is if you're like me and love the Rhodes and synthesizers, I'll bet you'll dig this one. Enjoy!