VELVET ARMOUR is the fifth solo album from Ton Scherpenzeel, and the successor to his fourth solo endeavour ‘The Lion’s Dream’ (2013).   “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 couldn’t do a project like this with Kayak. ‘The Lion’s Dream’ and ‘Velvet Armour’ are almost inseparable from me as a person. That’s also why I have 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. It’s as close to me as you’re 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 didn’t have a grand piano back in the 1500’s but if it sounds right, I’ll use it. But more often than not it’s fiddle, flute, harpsichord, or lute, or (baroque) guitar because they give the music that distinct, timeless atmosphere.”  VELVET ARMOUR, will catapult the listenter back in time to the essence of the Medieval Reniassance era. With a perfect blend of Baroque Folk and Progressive Rock ballads, the album offers a little somethnig for everyone. Released October 15, 2021 via Friendly Folk Records.  Ton Scherpenzeel is most known for his forty-eight year career as leader, composer, and keyboardist of the world renowned prog rock band, Kayak. But that is not his only musical legacy. He is also known for his years as keyboardist for prog rock bands Camel and Earth and Fire. In addition to his band and solo careers, Ton is an avid composer and musician in theatre and record productions in the Netherlands. He produced two albums for folk band, Flairck and has composed music and toured with Dutch comedian Youp van ‘t Hek (1984 – present).