Taurus

Introduction to Taurus

Taurus, a Dutch rock band formed in Haarlem in 1977, released their debut studio album, Illusions Of A Night, in 1981. The group consisted of Martin Scheffer, Rob Spierenburg, Jos Schild, and Rex Stulp. This album emerged from their recording sessions at Dureco Studios in Weesp and was distributed by Multi Records, marking the label's inaugural release.

Musical Style and Composition

Illusions Of A Night features a blend of symphonic rock and early neo-progressive rock. The album is characterized by lush synthesizer pads and deep Moog Taurus bass rumbles, which contribute to its rich sound. Melodic guitar solos and well-crafted song structures further enhance the listening experience. The music draws comparisons to established acts such as Genesis, Camel, and Marillion, showcasing the band's ability to bridge the classic 1970s Dutch symphonic prog with the emerging 1980s neo-progressive sound.

Production Details

The production of the album was handled by Bas Mul, with engineering by Jan Audier. The visual artwork was designed by Harry van Zijl and Gerda Spierenburg, adding a unique aesthetic to the album's presentation. The band's lineup brought together a range of musical talents, with Martin Scheffer on lead vocals and guitars, Rob Spierenburg on keyboards and synthesizers, Jos Schild on bass guitar and Moog Taurus bass pedals, and Rex Stulp on drums and percussion.

Track Highlights

The album includes eleven tracks that explore various themes and styles. Songs like "Back On The Street" and "Mountaineer" display the band's songwriting abilities. The title track, "Illusions Of A Night," serves as a focal point of the album and encapsulates its thematic essence. Other noteworthy tracks include "Farmers Battle" and "Kaboom," each contributing to the album's diverse soundscape.

Release Information

Illusions Of A Night was released in 1981 on Multi Records, specifically cataloged as MR 001. The album is available in vinyl format, allowing listeners to appreciate the music in its analog form.