Midnight Sun

Label: Sonet
Country: Denmark
Released: 1972
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Album Overview

Midnight Sun's second studio album, Walking Circles, was released in 1972 under Sonet Records, catalog number SLPS 1536. This album marks a new chapter for the band, introducing Frank Lauridsen as the lead vocalist and harmonica player. Lauridsen replaced Allan Mortensen, bringing a fresh energy to the group. Recorded at Ivar Rosenberg Lydteknik in Copenhagen, the album features a blend of jazz, rock, funk, and folk blues.

Musical Composition

The album expands Midnight Sun's musical palette. Key compositions include "Can You Hear The Music Play," "Country Song," and the Eastern-influenced instrumental "A La Turca," composed by Bent Hesselmann. The title track, "Walking Circles," stretches over seven minutes and showcases the band's progressive rock influences. The addition of guest violinist Finn Ziegler and congas played by Simon Koppel enhances the album's dynamic sound. Niels Brønsted’s work on acoustic and electric pianos adds depth to the arrangements.

Production Details

Freddy Hansson served as both producer and recording engineer for Walking Circles. His expertise contributed to the album’s polished sound. The cover art was illustrated by Roger Dean, known for his surreal and imaginative designs, depicting a skeleton sitting on its own tail. Photography for the album was handled by Jan Persson, adding an additional visual layer to the release.

Personnel Involved

In addition to Frank Lauridsen, the band features Peer Frost on electric and acoustic guitar, Bent Hesselmann on tenor and soprano saxophones and flute, Bo Stief on bass, and Carsten Smedegaard on drums and percussion. Each member contributes to the album's rich textures and diverse musical influences. The collaborative effort among these musicians is evident in the seamless integration of various styles throughout the record.

Noteworthy Tracks

Standout tracks include "Winds Gonna Blow" and "The Way Of Zen," both of which exemplify the band's range. The music combines intricate melodies with improvisational solos, typical of the jazz-rock genre. The album not only showcases individual talent but also reflects the collective creativity of Midnight Sun.

Walking Circles was released in Denmark in 1972.

Tracklist

A1	Can You Hear The Music Play Written-By – Lasse HelnerWritten-By – Peter Helner	3:57
A2	Country Song Written-By – Bo StiefWritten-By – Frank Lauridsen	5:12
A3	A La Turca Written-By – Bent Hesselmann	4:47
A4	The Way Of Zen Written-By – Andy LevyWritten-By – Frank LauridsenWritten-By – Peer Frost	3:49
B1	I've Got A New Mind Written-By – Andy LevyWritten-By – Bo StiefWritten-By – Frank LauridsenWritten-By – Niels Brønsted	4:23
B2	Winds Gonna Blow Written-By – Andy LevyWritten-By – Niels Brønsted	5:40
B3	Walking Circles Written-By – Andy LevyWritten-By – Niels Brønsted	7:21
B4	I'm Living A Dream Written-By – Andy LevyWritten-By – Niels Brønsted	1:37