The self-proclaimed "only prog band from Dusseldorf," has its roots in a
band named Kawumm. In 1993 they added vocalist/guitarist Hans Juergen
Klein, changed the name to Shades of Dawn, and saw the departure of the
original lead guitarist. In '94 they recorded previously written
material, but lack of finances forced them to put the project on the
shelf.
In '95, the keyboardist and bass player, were replaced by
Cyrill Stoletzky, and Theo Labs (respectively). This added a fresh
dimension to the bands sound, and set the course for their musical
direction.
With the lineup of Hans-Jürgen Klein on lead vocals
and guitars, Peter Schneider on keyboards, Christopher Struwe on drums,
Theo Labs on bass, and Cyrill Stoletzky on keyboards, they set out to
record their first album in 1997. This would become 1998's "The Dawn of
Time." That year they also played the Burg Herzburg Festival. However,
the newfound success was not enough to keep Stoletzky and Labs in the
band. They would return for appearances as guest musicians.
The
ensuing years saw more personnel changes, with new additions, members
returning (as guests, or permanent), and leaving again. During this time
they recorded the track "Plenty of Gold" for a sampler album, which has
become a cult favorite with the fans. The band also did some work for
television soundtracks. The material from the first album was unearthed,
re-mastered, and released as "The Slaughterhouse tapes." All the while
they kept up with live performances, even with an ever-fluid lineup.
In 2005 they recorded the album "From Dusk Till Dawn," which is set for worldwide release by Musea in 2006.
This
is a modern band with strong symphonic components. They bring a classic
prog sound (Yes, Camel, Eloy) into the present. For a band that can't
seem to keep a steady group together, they manage to keep going. Looking
for a band to play in? Chances are these guys have an opening.
- Hans-Jürgen Klein / all lead guitars, rhythm guitar, 6 & 12 string acoustic guitars,
lead and backing vocals, all vocals (7)
- Peter Schneider / keyboards, bass guitar (8)
- Christopher Struwe / drums, backing vocals, lead vocals (4 & 8)
- Wolfgang Schmidt / bass, bass pedals, rhythm guitar (4, 6 & 8), acoustic guitar (8)
- Annette Schepermann / keyboards
Personal on Bonus tracks, recorded in 2004:
Howling at the wind:
- Peter Schneider / keyboards
- Wolke Peter Schneider / acoustic guitar, keyboards
Prelude:
- Peter Schneider / keyboards
- Hans-Jürgen Klein / guitars
- Chris Struwe / drums
Memories:
- Hans-Jürgen Klein / guitars, vocals
- Peter Schneider / keyboards
- Chris Struwe / drums
- Edzard Schmidt / bass
1. Howling at the wind (1:14)
2. Confused (5:45)
3. President Why (5:40)
4. The silent death of a mother's heart (8:10)
5. I never thought (4:13)
6. Bombs (7:56)
7. Thunder (4:15)
8. Burning Drums (9:18)
9. Wolke (0:56)
10. Prelude (2:19)
11. Memories (5:33)
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