Kraan-Live´75 (1975)

Kraan, along with Embryo, were one of the German bands that incorporated psychedelic elements and an innovative jazz-rock sound with ethnic influences into their distinctive krautrock style. Formed in the small southern German city of Baden-Württemberg in the late 1960s, their first and longest-lasting lineup consisted of drummer Jan Fride, bassist Hellmut Hattler, saxophonist Johannes Papper, and guitarist and vocalist Peter Wolbrandt. In 1970, they signed with EMI's German subsidiary Electrola, with whom they released their self-titled debut album, "Kraan", in 1972. Following three more albums "Wintrup" (1972), "Andy Nogger" (1974), and "Let It Out" (1975) the group released the live album "Live '75", showcasing their eclectic approach to progressive rock, which differed considerably from the genre's typical sound. Their jam-session-based style showcases a psychedelic sound infused with funk, fusion, and progressive rock, featuring interplay between all the members and a complete instrumental freedom reminiscent of free jazz. Recorded entirely in Berlin in 1974, this live album highlights the band's excellent instrumental work, with a solid rhythm section providing the perfect foundation for the guitar and saxophone melodies. The album includes expanded versions of their first three studio albums released up to 1974. Overflowing with memorable moments, the entire repertoire is remarkable, beginning with the improvised "Holiday Am Maryerhorn", where Wolbrant surpasses himself on the guitar. The jazz-rock aspect is present in the funky "Jerk Of Life" and the aggressive "Sarah's Ritt durch den Schwarzwald", while the tour de force "Nam Nam" provides the high point of this live performance. Also included here are two previously unreleased tracks, "Hallo Ja Ja, I Don't Know" and "Lonesome Liftboy", both melodic pieces of extraordinary beauty. The album concludes with the expansive "Kraan Arabia", showcasing their exotic and oriental style in another piece featuring considerable improvisation with saxophone and guitar solos, backed by a devastating rhythm section.