Formed in Germany in 1969, Nektar favored extended compositions and concept albums over the constraints of pop. They were among the progenitors of the progressive rock movement of the 1970s as well as the jam-band scene that arose in the late 1990s. Their sound traveled well to the States, where they enjoyed Top 40 success with “A Tab in the Ocean” (1972) and “Remember the Future” (1973). Now Nektar is broadening their horizons with the first in the “Mission To Mars” trilogy. Their first to feature new drummer Jay Dittamo, alongside longtime members Ryche Chlanda (guitars), Kendall Scott (keyboards), and original members Derek “Mo” Moore (bass).