Shows & Schedule

Kaleidoscope at the Newport Folk Festival - July 28, 1968

On July 28, 1968, the eclectic and innovative band Kaleidoscope took the stage at the Newport Folk Festival, an event renowned for its diverse and influential musical acts. This performance was a notable moment in the festival’s history, showcasing Kaleidoscope’s unique blend of folk, rock, blues, and world music influences.

The Band: Kaleidoscope

Kaleidoscope, formed in 1967 in Los Angeles, was led by David Lindley, an exceptional guitarist known for his virtuosic skills and wide range of musical influences. The band’s lineup also included Chris Darrow (vocals, guitar, fiddle), Haskell "Hash" Wexler (bass), and Floyd Sneed (drums). Their music was characterized by its fusion of American folk traditions with elements of Eastern music, blues, and rock, making them stand out in the late 1960s music scene.

Performance at Newport Folk Festival

The Newport Folk Festival, established in 1959, was known for its groundbreaking performances and for showcasing a wide variety of genres and musical styles. By 1968, the festival was a significant platform for artists pushing the boundaries of traditional folk music. Kaleidoscope’s appearance at Newport Folk was a testament to the festival’s embrace of experimental and genre-blending music.

Setlist and Highlights

During their set at Newport Folk Festival, Kaleidoscope delivered a performance that captivated the audience with their dynamic and genre-crossing approach. While specific details of their setlist are not comprehensively documented, their typical repertoire included tracks such as:

• "California" - A song reflecting their West Coast roots and psychedelic influences.
• "Keep Your Lamp Trimmed and Burning" - A traditional blues song reinterpreted with their unique style.
• "Psychedelic Pill" - Showcasing their experimental side and blending various musical influences.
• "Seven Daffodils" - A track illustrating their incorporation of folk and world music elements.

Their performance was noted for its vibrant energy and the band's ability to seamlessly blend different musical traditions, creating a sound that was both innovative and deeply rooted in American musical heritage.

Legacy and Impact

Kaleidoscope’s performance at the Newport Folk Festival is remembered as a pivotal moment for the band, highlighting their role in the evolving musical landscape of the 1960s. The festival itself was a crucial venue for artists who were expanding the boundaries of folk and rock music, and Kaleidoscope’s appearance exemplified this spirit of musical experimentation.

Though Kaleidoscope’s mainstream success was relatively short-lived, their influence can be seen in the continued interest in genre-blending and experimental music. Their Newport Folk Festival performance remains a significant example of the band’s creative approach and their contribution to the rich tapestry of American music.

The 1968 Newport Folk Festival was a landmark event, and Kaleidoscope's performance is a notable chapter in the festival's storied history, reflecting the era’s excitement and the ever-evolving landscape of popular music.