Dave Pike facts for kids

David Samuel Pike (born March 23, 1938 – died October 3, 2015) was an American jazz musician. He was famous for playing the vibraphone and marimba. Dave Pike played on many albums with other famous musicians like Herbie Mann. He also made many of his own albums.

Who Was Dave Pike?

Dave Pike started playing drums when he was eight years old. He taught himself how to play the vibraphone. His first time recording music was in 1958 with the Paul Bley Quartet.

In the early 1960s, Dave worked with a flutist named Herbie Mann. Dave started using an amplifier with his vibraphone. This helped his music sound bigger and more exciting.

Exploring New Sounds

By the late 1960s, Dave Pike's music became more experimental. He wanted to try new things and create unique sounds. His album The Doors of Perception, released in 1970, showed this new style. It mixed different kinds of music, including calm songs and free jazz. He worked with talented musicians like Lee Konitz on this album.

Dave Pike later moved to Europe. There, he joined the record label MPS Records. He formed a group called the Dave Pike Set. This group included Volker Kriegel on guitar, J. A. Rettenbacher on bass, and Peter Baumeister on drums.

The Dave Pike Set

The Dave Pike Set made six albums between 1969 and 1972. Their music was a mix of funky rhythms and free, textured sounds. The group had a special and unique style. Volker Kriegel's guitar playing and his ideas for songs helped make their sound stand out. They blended jazz, soul jazz, and even world music into their songs.

Dave Pike passed away in Del Mar, California, when he was 77 years old.

Dave Pike's Music

Dave Pike released many albums as the main artist. Some of his well-known albums include:

• It's Time for Dave Pike (1961)
• Pike's Peak (1962)
• Bossa Nova Carnival (1962)
• Limbo Carnival (1962)
• The Doors of Perception (1970)
• Pike's Groove (1986)

He also played on many albums with other musicians, especially with Herbie Mann.