AmeriKayak (Part 1:early days)

To me it was never really clear how (un)popular Kayak was in the United States. Facts are few and far between, and it looks like a story full of false promises, bad luck and a small bit of success here and there. Besides that, it was more a 'manager and record company'-thing, without much involvement from the band itself. I am sure that the new Kayak book will shed some light on how it all went, but here is what I know (or sometimes: what I guess). If anybody can fill the gaps, please do!

The first small signs of Kayak appear in 1973. Dutch record company EMI Bovema places an advertisement in Billboard Magazine, to get some attention for their Dutch artists and bands. Kayak’s debut album gets an American release in 1974, on the EMI Harvest label. The LP gets a short but favourable review in Billboard. But I don’t think that Harvest released the second LP there?

 

In 1975, Kayak gets signed to Janus Records. They release Royal Bed Bouncer, in a completely different sleeve than the original LP. Janus tries to promote Kayak and their LP, and in the end “Bouncer” reaches the 199th place in Billboard’s album charts. Billboard Magazine reviews positively once again: “With their skillful blend of rock and electronics could take off via FM exposure if given the proper push. There is a strong touch of originality. The basic difference between Kayak and many other groups who work in this musical atmosphere is that nothing is overdone. The electronics are kept in perspective, as are the sometimes rapid fire vocals. Instrumentals, which vary from speedy rock to easy mood music, are the highlight of the set.”

In the meantime, Kayak’s flamboyant manager Frits Hirschland never ceases to shout that Kayak has made it in America, or at least will make it very soon! Dutch music magazines write about the band’s fame overseas, whereas in reality they are as unknown as any other Dutch band (except Shocking Blue). Undeterred, Hirschland announces one ‘upcoming USA tour’ after the other…

 "An American tour early in 1975..."

TO BE CONTINUED...