Thomas Koppel Died 2/25

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Founder of Savage Rose Thomas Koppel died suddenly Saturday on holiday in Puerto Rico. He was busy preparing a Savage Rose tour later this year as well as a solo piano album. In 1968 Thomas Koppel (composer, piano, accordion, organ) formed the first incarnation of the the band he was going to lead for the rest of his life with his future wife Annisette (vocals), brother Anders Koppel (organ), Alex Riel (drums), Jens Rugsted (bass) and Flemming Osterman (guitar--soon to be replaced by Nils Tuxen).

During the years the band took many forms, going from from classical-influenced rock to ballet music over Balkan-inspired folk to modern pop music. The band gained some international success and was probably the best known “progressive” Danish rock band outside Denmark. It should be noticed that several jazz musicians have been involved over the years including Ben Webster, Peter Nyegaard, Niels-Henning Orsted Pedersen, Klavs Hovman, Jesper Zeuthen and Alex Riel. Flamenco guitarist Christian Sievert has also been a member as well as superpercussionist John Ravn..

Many people will know the 1972 “Ddens Triumf” (a sad ironic title considering the fact that Thomas has now passed on the next life), which became their alltime classic song.

A true creative soul has left the planet all too soon--sadly, Thomas did not reach the advanced age of his father, famed classical composer Hermann D. Koppel. Brother Anders left Savage Rose in 1975 to form world music trio Bazaar. These days they are heading for their 30-year-jubilee tour and a new album as well.

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