PLIMA/POVRATAK JACKA TRBOSJEKA I OSTALOG ZLA

INDEXI released a dozen singles and EPs in the period from 1964-74, prior to their first LP record, the eponymous collection of Jugoton singles, released in 1974. Among those, "Plima" EP issued in 1972 was probably the most important one. Around this time INDEXI was the premier progressive rock band in Yugoslavia and they made ambitious plans for the first studio LP album. To that end they composed several extended prog pieces but the then phonograph companies dismissed them in favour of their equally successful pop-hit abilities. On their 10th anniversary INDEXI played at famous "Skenderija" in Sarajevo, gathering twelve thousand fans and later that year in November 1972 "Plima" EP was released.

The title song (meaning "High Tide" in English) was actually recorded back in 1968 and was a groundbreaking prog (or "proto-prog") composition. It includes psychedelic organ, orchestral string arrangements, ambitious and poetic lyrics and above all the amazing guitar solo by Kovacevic. Definitely it's one of the best and most important songs ever produced in ex-Yugoslavia!

The second track "Povratak Jacka Trbosjeka i ostalog zla" (The Return of Jack the Ripper and Other Evils" in English) is less known even to the band's fans, although it is a very solid acid- heavy-rock with strong guitar riff and powerful rhythm except the lyrics are obviously too awkward to be sung.

The last track "Ugasila je plamen" (Eng. "She Put Out the Flame") is on the other hand a forgotten masterpiece of heavy organ-laden blues prog with scat chorus followed by a guitar solo. Dark piano and organ chords are backing one of the strongest Popovic's vocal performances, while bass and drums are firm as a stronghold! Comparison to VANILLA FUDGE or IRON BUTTERFLY comes to mind.

This is of course a rarity issue and is absolutely recommended to prog devotees who are strongly encouraged to search for it at the second-hand record shops. Others are advised to obtain the later compilations where "Plima" and "Ugasila je plamen" can be found. Essential prog rock! 4,5 stars...