There are, at least, three bands named Quintessence: 1) A 60s/70s British psychedelic rock band. 2) A Finnish nu-soul / jazz / funk band. 3) A French black metal band. 1) A 60s/70s British 'psychedelic rock' (aka The Quintessence), formed in 1969, by flautist Raja Ram. Quintessence were an indo-prog/raga rock group from Notting Hill, London. They played a mixture of Indian ragas, progressive rock and jazz, with mystical overtones. After signing to Island Records, they released three lavishly packaged LPs: In Blissful Company (1969), Quintessence (1970), and Dive Deep (1971). They then signed with RCA for a further two: .