Fans of legendary progressive rock band Caravan - heralded the top billing of the Canterbury Scene musicians, will know that Dave Sinclair's Hammond organ sound was an integral part of the appeal of this unique band. From the beginnings of the group, Dave's organ melodies formed the backbone of the songs which spanned many genres, from the late 60s psychedelic beginnings to the whimsical, folk-inspired eccentric tunes which became the Caravan trademark.
Sinclair's organ work is especially strong in Caravan's magnum opus, In The Land of Grey and Pink, which many fans hold dear as a treasured favourite. This seminal album, featured in Rolling Stone's 50 Greatest Prog Rock Albums of All Time, was for many fans the beginning of an obsession and is now considered a cornerstone of the Canterbury Scene output. Prog magazine's Paul Henderson, took up The Story of In The Land Of Grey And Pink, speaking with Dave in 2009.
Nine Feet Underground, a 22 minute epic, is an exhilarating journey of swirling melodies, with Dave's self modified Hammond A-100 organ, the star of the show.
This track still continues to this day to inspire listeners, becoming a firm favourite in reaction videos.
For over 15 years, Dave's organ has laid unused and silent, in storage, where it has deteriorated and no longer sings. When he moved to live and work in Japan, Dave was not able to bring the organ with him.
Our revival campaign aims to celebrate the legacy of this incredible instrument and give it the restoration it deserves. After restoration, the aim is for Dave's organ to be available for a potential exhibition, then future creative projects.
To find out more about Dave's Hammond organ and the Caravan sound that he developed, check out Episode 4 of his 'Lost Interview' mini-series for YouTube.