Scherpenzeel, Ton
Velvet Armour
VELVET ARMOUR, the fifth solo album from Ton Scherpenzeel, is the successor to 'The Lion's Dream' (2013). This eighteen-track album will catapult the listener back in time to the essence of the Medieval Renaissance era. Fans of the Progressive rock band, Kayak, will recognize track ten, 'My Heart Never Changed', as Ton originally released this track on the album, Royal Bed Bouncer (1975). With a perfect blend of Baroque Folk and Progressive Rock ballads, the album offers a little something for everyone. "My musical heart is firmly rooted in folk, renaissance, baroque, and- of course- prog rock music," says Ton. "Although the folky and classical elements have always been present in the music of Kayak, I couldnt do a project like this with Kayak. 'The Lion's Dream and Velvet Armour are almost inseparable from me as a person. That is why I decided to do the vocals myself. I do not really see myself as a singer, but my voice reflects my music in its purest form. Its as close to me as youre gonna get. My music can perhaps best be described as an old soul in a new age. I am also not a purist when it comes to the use of certain instruments- they didnt have a grand piano back in the 1500s but if it sounds right, Ill use it. More often than not it is fiddle, flute, harpsichord, lute, or baroque guitar because they give the music that distinct, timeless atmosphere."