Northwind - Heavy Prog Band (US)

Peter's gift

Northwind biography: ( http://www.progarchives.com/artist.asp?id=5707 )

NORTHWIND first formed as far back as 1968. Jan STEPKA(keyboards) and Roland ERNEST(guitars,keyboards,vocals) along with drummer Steve WHITE were influenced by the likes of Procul Harum, The Doors, ELP and King Crimson. These influences give an organic sound to their music with heavy laden guitar riffs, organ and keyboards dominating proceedings. 1970 saw the birth of rock opera 'Looking Back' and in '72 the band recorded an untitled demo.  Tom IACABONI replaced WHITE on drums and in 1974, the band unofficially released a demo album which for the sake of discography purposes was called 'Woods of Zandor'. In '78 they competed the project 'Distant Shores' but only one song - "Just Yesterday" - ever officially saw the light of day on local radio stations. The band underwent several more line up changes up to 1978 when they disbanded, failing to land a recording contract. Their sound is worth seeking out and can be sampled on their website.

Chris S (additional info supplied by Marty McFly)

Palhinha:

Northwind - 1978 Distant Shores

Distant Shores is the best work by Northwind. The first track The Sentient Man is probably not the easiest entry to Northwind music. It's long and complicated. Of the pieces on this album, I recommend listening to Stepping Softly before deciding whether you like Northwind or not. 

-- Jan Stepka