Scope

Scope is a Dutch jazz-rock and fusion group from Zwolle, active from 1972 to 1976. The line-up includes Erik Raayman, Rik Elings, Rens Newland, Henk Zomer, Rob Franken, Arthur Clarck and Robert Vink. The group forms in the early 1970s from musicians who already play together at school in a band called Strange Power.

Origins and early work

Henk Zomer and Rik Elings found the group after playing together in high school. Before taking the name Scope, they record two singles in 1971 as Strange Power: That's the way/Turn me loose and Tenderfoot/Spring. Scope then takes shape with the addition of Rens Newland on guitar and Erik Raayman on bass guitar.

Style and recording history

The band tours extensively in the Netherlands and Germany during its active years. Its music sits mainly in 1970s jazz-rock and fusion, with elements linked to the progressive rock scene. In 1974 the group records its debut in Germany for the Negram label. In 1975 Rob Franken joins on keyboards, Raayman leaves and Elings moves from keyboards and flute to bass guitar. With this line-up the band records a second album, also in Germany.

Later changes

In 1976 Zomer leaves and Robert Vink replaces him briefly on drums. Roland Zeldenrust then becomes the next drummer, and Pablo Nahar joins on bass. These line-up changes lead to the end of the group in 1976. The group later revives in 1982 with Rik Elings, Henk Zomer, Theo de Jong on bass, and a changing series of guitar players.