VIVE LA TRANCE

1974's VIVE LA TRANCE is a solid album from German psychedelic/prog pioneers Amon Duul II. The band's roots extend back to the early days of the progressive movement, in a late 60s political/musical commune in Munich. At first known simply as Amon Duul (from the ancient Egyptian sun god, and the Turkish word for "moon"), the band -- much like early Pink Floyd -- specialized in extended live "freak-out" jams. At decade's end, the musical part of the commune split to concentrate solely upon the music, the "II" was added to the name, and more structure was imposed upon the output. Amon Duul II's earlier albums (like the excellent WOLF CITY and CARNIVAL IN BABYLON) are more overtly "progressive," but VIVE LA TRANCE is nonetheless one of my favourites from this group.

The songs on this recording tend to be shorter (averaging around three and-a-half minutes), and more conventional in structure and subject-matter, but there is an overlay of electronics and psychedelic effects that keeps the music within the progressive realm. All lyrics are in English, and the band members are seasoned and accomplished musicians, singers, and songwriters. (The guitars, violins, keyboards, and percussion are especially effective.) I like every song on this disc, but those I find to be particularly worthy include the acerbic "A Morning Excuse," the "far-out" instrumental "Im Krater Bluhn Wieder der Baume," the powerful anti-imperialism anthem "Mozambique" ("The white beast is in the villages, dealing only in death. With his soul left behind him, he is the raper of women, mutilator of children, murderer of men."),the spacey, laid-back "Apocalyptic Bore," the infectious "Trap," the Latin-flavoured "Manana," and the hard rocking "Ladies Mimikry."

This album served as my introduction to Amon Duul II, and those who don't know their music would be well advised to listen to the song download here, then (for starters) buy a copy of either WOLF CITY, or the equally great VIVE LA TRANCE. Fine German progressive, from an important band -- well worth checking out!