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The history of Swedish prog veterans Kaipa comes in three parts. The first part lasted from 1973 to 1982 were the band issued five full length albums. Kaipa enjoyed national success as a progressive rock band with strong folk leanings that sung exclusively in Swedish. The next period was a twenty year long stretch from 1982 to 2002 that saw no albums from the band but. In those twenty years the international reputation of the band was on the rise however. Then in 2002 the comeback “Notes from the Past” was released. Personally I was thrilled, it was an excellent album and Kaipa was back in business.

Elements of Swedish folk music have always been prevalent on Kaipa album. This time around that sound is more integrated in the overall album than before rather than being folk element splashes as seen on previous albums. It gives the album a distinct “Kaipa-feel” but make no mistake, this is not a folk rock album it is still progressive rock of the finest caliber. Add a little of the feel of the 70’s and a bit of psychedelica and you have the recipe for first class progressive album. 

The centerpiece of the album is the 22 minutes (!) long “Our Silent Ballroom Band”. This track is masterful showcase of how to develop a track to keep the listener focused for such a long period of time without losing interest along the way due to skilled musicianship and changing of moods during the track.

Still in 2012 Kaipa is a relevant band and I am already looking forward what the future will bring from this band.

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