TANZ DER LEMMINGE [AKA: DANCE OF THE LEMMINGS]

Amon Düül II seems to have a very particular sound. According to statistics, this album is their best so I think this original band deserves to be added in any prog collection with this album (that's why I put 4 stars), in spite of some obvious defects.

The main quality of this album is the funny atmosphere and diversity set in beginning and lasting until the more difficult part called "Chamsin Soundtrack". Each huge part being divided in many smaller parts, it adds dynamics to the whole. There are plenty of good riffs with special effects on the guitar or on the voice, but keeping in background a soft "acoustic" texture. These varied themes keep the listener awake and curious, even if there is a lack of emotions and passion, much of it being due to the lack of personnality and technique in the singer's voice and the lack of sense in the lyrics.

After this good first part comes a break with the 18-minute long instrumental improvisation on the beginning of "Chamsin soudtrack". This is obviously too long, and has little musical interest, but it adds a touch of "calm" or at least gives a very different atmosphere compared to the rest.

Back to fun then and "Chewing-gum telegram" awakes us with its aggressive guitar riff. The last two pieces are more atmospheric. It lacks some memorable ending, while the introduction was quite a success.