Kaleidoscope

Label: Epic
Country: US
Released: 1967
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Introduction to Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope emerged from Los Angeles in 1966. The band focused on blending various musical styles. Their debut album, Side Trips, was released in June 1967 on Epic Records. This album features a unique combination of rock, folk rock, and world fusion influences.

Musical Composition

The members of Kaleidoscope were skilled multi-instrumentalists. David Lindley played several instruments including the banjo, fiddle, and harp guitar. Solomon Feldthouse contributed with the saz, bouzouki, and lead vocals. Chris Darrow added bass and various string instruments to the mix. Chester Crill, also known as Fenrus Epp, played violin and organ. John Vidican completed the lineup on drums and percussion. Together, they created a rich tapestry of sound.

Diverse Influences

Side Trips is characterized by its eclectic style. The album incorporates Middle Eastern modal scales and Turkish folk instrumentation. It also features elements of Appalachian bluegrass and blues. The influence of Cajun fiddle and 1930s swing can be found in some tracks. Notably, the band covered Cab Calloway's "Minnie The Moocher" and Dock Boggs' "Oh Death." This blend of styles sets Kaleidoscope apart in the musical landscape of the time.

Production Details

The album was produced by Barry Friedman, who is also known as Frazier Mohawk. Mike Goldberg supervised the recording. The liner notes were written by Arnold Shaw, providing context for the listener. The album was released in two formats: vinyl LP and mono. Its catalog number is BN 26304 for the stereo version and LN 24304 for the mono version.

Track Highlights

Among the ten tracks on Side Trips, "Egyptian Gardens" and "Pulsating Dream" stand out for their innovative arrangements. "Keep Your Mind Open" reflects the band’s lyrical depth. The album presents a journey through various cultural influences, reflecting the band's diverse musical background.

Conclusion

Kaleidoscope's debut album Side Trips was released in June 1967 on Epic Records.

Tracklist

A1	Egyptian Gardens Written-By – D. Feldthouse*	3:05
A2	If The Night Written-By – C. Darrow*	1:45
A3	Hesitation Blues Written-By – C. Poole*	2:25
A4	Please Written-By – M. FeedmanWritten-By – D. Feldthouse	3:10
A5	Keep Your Mind Open Written-By – C. Darrow*	2:15
B1	Pulsating Dream Written-By – C. Darrow*	1:58
B2	Oh Death Written-By – J. Reedy*	3:25
B3	Come On In	2:07
B4	Why Try Written-By – D. Lindley*	3:43
B5	Minnie The Moocher Written-By – C. CallowayWritten-By – C. GaskillWritten-By – I. Mills*	2:13

Credits

Baglama [Saz], Bouzouki [Bouzoukee], Dobro, Veena [Vina], Goblet Drum [Doumbeg], Dulcimer, Fiddle, Twelve-String Guitar – David Solomon Feldthouse*
Banjo, Fiddle, Mandolin, Guitar, Harp Guitar, Banjo [7-String Banjo] – David Perry Lindley*
Bass, Banjo, Mandolin, Fiddle, Autoharp, Harmonica, Clarinet – Christopher Lloyd Darrow*
Liner Notes – Arnold Shaw
Percussion – John Vidican
Producer – Barry Friedman
Supervised By [Production Supervised By] – Mike Goldberg
Violin, Viola, Bass, Piano, Organ, Harmonica – Fenrus Epp