Alquin

Label: Polydor
Country: Netherlands
Released: 1976
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

Introduction to Alquin On Tour

Alquin On Tour is a live album by the Dutch progressive rock band Alquin, released in 1976 by Polydor under catalog number 2925 049. This recording captures the band during a vibrant period in their career, following their previous studio album, Nobody Can Wait Forever, released in 1975. The album showcases the band’s musical versatility and prowess in a live setting, recorded using the Mirasound Mobile Studio.

Band Members and Their Roles

The lineup for Alquin On Tour features several notable musicians. Michel van Dijk lends his powerful lead vocals and is known for his previous work with Ekseption and Brainbox. Ferdinand Bakker contributes with his lead guitar and electric violin, enhancing the band's sound with soaring melodies. Dick Franssen plays the Hammond organ, piano, and synthesizers, adding depth to their progressive rock arrangements. Ronald Ottenhoff brings a dynamic flair with his tenor and soprano saxophones, alongside flute. Jan Visser, formerly of the George Baker Selection, handles the bass guitar, while Job Tarenskeen plays drums, percussion, and saxophone, providing a robust rhythm section.

Musical Highlights

The album opens with the medley "Sunrise / Wake Me Up," setting an energetic tone. It transitions into "L.A. Rendez Vous," followed by a lengthy rendition of "The Dance," which stretches over 15 minutes. This track highlights the band's proficiency in progressive rock structures and improvisation. The second side features the hard-rocking "High Rockin'" and the suite "Amy / I Wish I Could," which combines for another 15-minute experience. The set closes with "Wheelchair Groupie," a track that has become a staple in their live performances.

Production Details

Alquin On Tour was mixed at Relight Studios in Hilvarenbeek. The sound engineering was handled by John Kriek, ensuring a quality audio experience for listeners. Erik De Bruyn served as the executive producer, guiding the album's production process. The album's artwork, featuring a unique airplane design concept by Luigi Colani, adds a visual element that complements the music.

Release and Reception

Released in 1976, Alquin On Tour captures a significant moment in the band's history, reflecting their live performance energy and musical evolution. The album has been well-received by fans of the genre, particularly those who appreciate the fusion of rock and progressive elements. Alquin's ability to translate their studio sound into a live format speaks to their musicianship and dedication to their craft.

Alquin On Tour was recorded live in the Netherlands in 1976.

Tracklist

A1a	Sunrise Written-By – W. J. M. FranssenWritten-By – F. P. BakkerWritten-By – H. H. MarsWritten-By – R. J. Ottenhoff	2:35
A1b	Wake Me Up Written-By – F. P. BakkerWritten-By – J. R.Tarenskeen	3:40
A2	L.A. Rendez Vous Written-By – F. P. BakkerWritten-By – J. R.Tarenskeen	3:30
A3	The Dance Written-By – W. J. M. FranssenWritten-By – F. P. BakkerWritten-By – J. R.Tarenskeen*	15:30
B1	High Rockin' Written-By – F. P. BakkerWritten-By – J. R.TarenskeenWritten-By – M. J. N. Van DijkWritten-By – R. J. Ottenhoff	5:45
B2a	Amy Written-By – F. P. BakkerWritten-By – M. J. N. Van Dijk	4:20
B2b	I Wish I Could Written-By – F. P. BakkerWritten-By – J. R.Tarenskeen	10:20
B3	Wheelchair Groupie Written-By – F. P. BakkerWritten-By – J. R.Tarenskeen	3:35