KAIPA

KAIPA are still the leading force of the Swedish symhonic progressive rock scene.They were formed in 1973 by long time friends Hans Lundin (keyboards) and Tomas Erikkson.In 1974 original drummer Thomas Sjoberg was replaced by Ingermar Bergman due to a serious disease.Not long after only 17-years old guitarist Roine Stolt was going to be also part of KAIPA.This was exactly the quartet that released their first eponymous album in 1975.In ''Kaipa'' the fantastic mix of classical/symphonic-oriented rock with some Swedish folk influences is leading the way.The album is mainly keyboard-driven,based on Lundlin excellent keyboard themes,not lacking sometimes in intensity through Stolt's inspired guitars.The atmosphere is quite symphonic and mellow and every single composition is tasteful,well-arranged and rich,filled with emotional tunes.KAIPA's debut is the best answer to the growing-UK progressive rock scene and I recommended it more than highly,especially for fans of folk-tinged/symphonic music!