Waterloo (Belgium)

Belgian Heavy Progressive band 'Waterloo', comprising Dirk Bogaert (lead vocals, flute), Gus Roan (guitar), Marc Malyster (organ), Jacky Mauer (drums) and Jean-Paul Janssens (bass) were formed in the autumn of 1969, out of the ashes of Brussels-based blues-rock power trio 'Adam's Recital' and Ghent's 'Today's Version'.

The band's only album, 'First Battle', containing photography shot within the Waterloo Battlefield Museum, was released under the French 'Vogue' label in February 1970, with a pressing run of only 'several thousand copies', with the album only being distributed in Belgium. A more elaborate version of the track 'Meet Again' was released as a single however, leading to a subsequent album release in Portugal, under the 'Roda' label.

Although a 40 date tour followed, including the opportunity to support 'Family', and an opening slot at the 1970 Ghent festival, the band's demise was initiated by Marc Malyster's departure, to work on other side projects. Although he was replaced by John Van Rymenant
who as a saxophonist, brought to the band a jazzier emphasis, the demos for 1972's follow-up release 'The Youngest Day' remained unreleased, as the band parted amicably.

Waterloo's debut album would appeal to those who enjoy a more Eclectic feel to their music, with Heavy Progressive undertones. The album clearly demonstrates the band's ambition to mix rock, jazz and classical influences into an ambitious personal repertoire; their musical formula being built around Dirk's flute and vocals, and Gus's integration of jazzy harmonies into a classical/ prog rock structure.

If you enjoy early Jethro Tull, Blodwyn Pig, the eclecticism of early King Crimson and the organ soundscapes of Keith Emerson, then this album would be highly recommended. (PROGARCHIVES)