Alquin

Album Overview

Released in late 1973, "The Mountain Queen" is the second studio album by the Dutch band Alquin. The album was recorded in August 1973 at De Lane Lea Studios in London. It was released under the Polydor label, catalog number 2441 069. This album represents a blend of jazz and rock, falling into the categories of jazz-rock, psychedelic rock, and progressive rock.

Production and Engineering

The album was produced by British producer Derek Lawrence, who is known for his collaborations with bands like Deep Purple and Wishbone Ash. The engineering team featured Dick Plant and Richard Goldblatt, both of whom contributed to the album's polished sound. The production quality reflects the era’s musical advancements, showcasing a sophisticated mix of instruments and styles.

Band Lineup

The lineup of Alquin for "The Mountain Queen" includes Ferdinand Bakker on electric and acoustic guitars, electric violin, piano, and vocals. Job Tarenskeen provides lead vocals and plays tenor and alto saxophones, along with percussion. Ronald Ottenhoff contributes tenor, alto, and soprano saxophones as well as flute. Dick Franssen adds depth with the Hammond organ and Fender Rhodes electric piano, while Hein Mars handles bass guitar, and Paul Weststrate is on drums.

Musical Structure

The album contains six tracks, including two significant side-long suites. The first, "The Dance," spans 13 minutes and opens Side A. The title track, "Mountain Queen," follows on Side B, lasting 15 minutes. Other tracks include "Soft-Eyed Woman," "Convicts Of The Air," and a full studio version of "Mr. Barnum Jr.'s Magnificent And Fabulous City." The music features intricate wind harmonies, soaring guitar passages, and dynamic keyboard counterpoints.

Style and Influence

"The Mountain Queen" is often associated with the Dutch progressive rock scene and is influenced by the Canterbury sound. The compositions are lengthy and complex, drawing comparisons to bands such as Focus, Camel, Caravan, and Pink Floyd. The interplay between jazz elements and rock creates a distinctive sound that characterizes the album.

Recording Venue

The album was recorded at De Lane Lea Studios in London, a notable location for many significant music projects during the 1970s.