Originally formed in Mannheim in 1969, Kin Ping Meh had undergone several changes in line-up and musical direction during their seven years of activity. Their early albums combined Progressive Rock, Psychedelia and Melodic Hard Rock, while later releases moved towards a more straightforward, blues-influenced Hard Rock sound.
Following the departure of singer Geff Harrison and bassist Alan Joe Wroe, guitarist Gagey Mrozeck and drummer Charlie Weber decided to continue under the Kin Ping Meh name. The new line-up featured vocalist Michael Pozz, bassist Chuck Trevor and keyboardist Ron Sheepmaker.
Released in 1977 on bacillus records, the band’s sixth and final studio album presented a different musical approach. The eight tracks combine Melodic Hard Rock with contemporary influences and a somewhat funkier rhythmic feel. Michael Pozz‘s distinctive, high-register vocals give the material a character of its own. The album also includes a version of “Tin Soldier,” originally recorded by The Small Faces, featuring guest saxophonist Chris Mercer on “A Lick And A Promise” and “Elevator Love.”
Recorded and mixed at Chipping Norton Studios in England, the album was produced by Barry Hammond and Kin Ping Meh, with Ingo Schantz as associate producer. Despite the new line-up and the attempt to establish a fresh musical identity, the record marked the end of the band’s original run.
Purchase “King Ping Meh” on Bandcamp: https://bacillusrecords.bandcamp.com/album/kin-ping-meh-1977
Tracklist:
01. Things of Ages 05:23
02. Take Her Under 04:12
03. A Lick and a Promise 04:02
04. Love of Mine 05:44
05. Hooked 05:12
06. Elevator Love 05:12
07. Tin Soldier 03:25
08. Never More 06:30
Lineup:
Gagey Mrozeck / Guitars, Mouth Box (A2)
Chuck Trevor / Bass
Ron Sheepmaker / Keyboards, All Synthesizers, String Arrangements (B4)
Charlie Weber / Snare Drum, Tom-Tom, Floor-Tom, Bass Drum, Hi-Hat; Cymbals by Paiste; Piano (A2)
Michael Pozz / Vocals
Additional Musicians:
Ruby & Sylvie / Backing vocals (A3, A4, B4)
Chris Mercer / Saxophone (A3, B2)
Production & Recording:
Produced by Barry Hammond and K.P.M.
Engineered by Barry Hammond (Space Captain)
Recorded at Chipping Norton Studios
Associate Producer: Ingo Schantz
Tin Soldier – Originally recorded by The Small Faces.
Artwork & Equipment:
Photography: Martin (Elk) Oelenheinz
Design: Chrissy – both of Pan
Stage equipment by Peavey