Kaleidoscope

Label: Epic
Country: US
Released: 1969
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Release Overview

"Incredible Kaleidoscope," also known as "Incredible! Kaleidoscope," is the third studio album by the American group Kaleidoscope. It was released in June 1969 by Epic Records. The catalog number for this vinyl LP is BN 26467. This album showcases the band's eclectic approach, blending elements of rock, psychedelic rock, and world fusion.

Musical Composition

The album features a diverse array of instruments and styles. David Lindley leads with his impressive skills on the guitar, banjo, violin, and vocals. He is joined by Solomon Feldthouse, who plays the oud, saz/caz, clarinet, and foot percussion, among other instruments. The rhythm section includes new bassist Stuart A. Brotman and drummer Paul Lagos, who brings experience from jazz and R&B backgrounds. Chester Crill, also known as Templeton Parcely, contributes with lead violin and organ, while harmonica parts are played by Max Buda.

Highlighted Tracks

The album is marked by a dynamic range of musical styles. One of its standout tracks is the eleven-minute "Seven-Ate Sweet," which is characterized by complex time signatures and an interplay of Greek and Balkan motifs. Other tracks include "Lie To Me," "Let The Good Love Flow," and Lindley's fast-paced bluegrass piece "Banjo." The album also features an electrified version of the traditional folk song "Cuckoo."

Production Details

Bob Breault served as the engineer for the album, ensuring a polished sound. The liner notes were penned by Tom Donahue, a notable figure in the San Francisco FM underground radio scene. The combination of Breault’s engineering and Donahue's insights adds depth to the album's presentation.

Musical Fusion

"Incredible Kaleidoscope" represents a high point in the band's exploration of musical fusions. The album transitions seamlessly from intricate bluegrass banjo melodies to rich Balkan and Middle Eastern influences. This variety reflects the band's commitment to blending different musical traditions while maintaining a distinctive sound.

The album was released in June 1969 on Epic Records.

Tracklist

A1	Lie To Me Written-By – LindleyWritten-By – LagosWritten-By – FeldthouseWritten-By – Brotman	2:45
A2	Let The Good Love Flow Written-By – LindleyWritten-By – Smith	2:10
A3	Tempe Arizona Lyrics By – BurnettLyrics By, Music By – FeldthouseMusic By – LindleyMusic By – LagosMusic By – BrotmanMusic By – Parcely	2:44
A4	Petit Fleur Written-By – LindleyWritten-By – LagosWritten-By – FeldthouseWritten-By – BrotmanWritten-By – Parcely*	3:29
A5	Banjo Written-By – Lindley*	3:37
B1	Cuckoo Lyrics By [Additional Verses] – Feldthouse*Written-By – Traditional	4:15
B2	Seven-Ate Sweet Written-By – LindleyWritten-By – LagosWritten-By – FeldthouseWritten-By – Parcely	11:37

Credits

Arranged By – Kaleidoscope
Bass, Vocals – Stuart A. Brotman*
Design – Richard Mantel
Drums, Vocals – Paul Lagos
Engineer – Bob Breault
Guitar, Oud, Clarinet, Baglama [Caz], Vocals, Cümbüş [Jumbus], Percussion [Feet] – Solomon Feldthouse*
Harmonica, Guest [Guest Artist] – Max Buda
Lead Guitar, Banjo, Violin, Vocals – David Lindley
Liner Notes – Tom Donahue
Liner Notes – Tom Donahue
Photography By – Ivan Nagy
Producer – Jackie Mills
Violin [Lead], Organ, Vocals – Templeton Parcely